Blake Peak

Heading out? Conditions change fast and help can be hours away. What to bring ↓

Distance~15.5 miRound trip
Summit3,960 ftElevation
Ascent2,800 ftTotal gain

Blake Peak, the #43 Adirondack High Peak, is climbed after summiting Mount Colvin. Despite being below 4,000 feet it is still a solid hike, since there is such a long approach before the climb up Colvin and Blake. The distance is worth it: the summit is wooded, but there are great views of the lakes below and mountains nearby on the way up.

The route

The route starts on Adirondack Mountain Reserve land. Begin by climbing Mount Colvin.

From Colvin's summit, continue along the trail and follow it down to a small col between Colvin and Blake. Here there is an intersection with the steeper trail up to Colvin and Blake from Upper Ausable Lake. At the intersection, continue straight and left to Blake.

The trail climbs quite steeply to a ridge 0.5 miles from the intersection, then continues along the ridge for 0.1 miles to the summit.

The views

The summit is wooded, but there are great views of the lakes below and mountains nearby during the hike to the top.

Often hiked with

Blake is climbed in conjunction with Mount Colvin.

High Peak details

Difficulty: Very strenuous
46er rank: #43 of 46
Range: Colvin Range
Trail type: Marked trail
Trailhead: Adirondack Mountain Reserve
Distance note: Includes the hike up Mount Colvin first

Trail resources

Conditions: Conditions change fast. Check current trail conditions and DEC's High Peaks page before heading out.

#42 Grace Peak #44 Cliff Mountain All 46 High Peaks

Before you go

Adirondack weather turns quickly, cell service is unreliable, and help can be hours away. Pick a plan that fits your group's fitness and experience.

Layers and rain gear, even in summer. Skip cotton
A headlamp, so you are not relying on your phone
A map and compass, or navigation that works offline
More food and water than you expect to need, plus first aid
In cold months, carry traction. In the Eastern High Peaks, skis or snowshoes are required when snow is 8 inches or deeper
Staying overnight in the Eastern High Peaks? A bear-resistant canister is required from April 1 to November 30
Leave your route and return time with someone
Check the forecast and current conditions, and know when the sun sets
Turn back if weather worsens, someone is exhausted, or dark is coming

Plan on getting yourself out. Rangers can be hours away, cell service can't be counted on, and every rescue puts other people at risk. If someone is seriously hurt, lost or in danger, don't wait. Call 911 or DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch at 833-NYS-RANGERS (833-697-7264). Save that number before you leave. Read DEC's Hike Smart NY guidance and current Adirondack backcountry conditions.

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