#21 Macomb Mountain

#21 Macomb Mountain - Pure Adirondacks

Macomb is one of the unmarked peaks in the Dix Wilderness, and while easy to hike by itself, it is often hiked in conjunction with the Dix peaks and Hough, particularly given that the trailhead is quite remote. The most popular route to take is up the new slide (although it is not so new anymore), which provides excellent views of the lowlands below. Given its remote location, Macomb is also a great option for avoiding the summer crowds. To read and see the inside perspective from one of our hiking trips up Macomb, South Dix, and Grace Peak, check out our post here in our ADK Perspectives.

Trail Stats:

Distance 8 miles round trip
Elevation 4,405 feet
Ascent 2,344 feet

Beginning at the trailhead at Elk Lake, you will take the Elk Lake-Dix Trail to Slide Brook, which is 2.3 miles past Elk Lake. Continue along the brook for just over 1 mile, where you will reach the base of the slide coming in at the right. You can then hike up the slide, enjoying the view along the way. Be careful, however, as the slide is full of loose rocks and dirt, making it unlike most slides in the area. At the top of the slide, you will see a path at the top of the ridge, which will take you about 0.3 miles to the summit, which has a decent view, despite being mostly wooded.

Trailhead:

To reach the Elk Lake trailhead, you will follow Route 87 south from Keene. Turn off at exit 29, following Blue Ridge Road to the left towards Newcomb. After 4 miles, you will see Elk Lake Road turn off to the right. Follow this road just over 5 miles to parking on the right, just before the road ends at the lake ahead.

Related Links:

Adirondack High Peaks

Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge

ADK Perspectives


46 Adirondack High Peaks

Roster of Peaks

Keep it PURE

Remember to Leave No Trace! Buy a physical map, read it, plan, and prepare. Think about the NYS Rangers and medical personnel that exhaust themselves for a rescue that could have been avoided. Pack out your trash. Use a bear canister when primitive camping and cook away from where you’re sleeping. Do the rock walk to help reduce the impact on fragile alpine vegetation. Camp at designated campsites and never camp on or near summits.

Trail Conditions

Know before you go

The 46 of 46 Podcast

An outdoors documentary podcast of a local hiker's journey hiking all 46 High Peaks of the Adirondack Mountains to become an Adirondack 46er. Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and more.

Take The Pledge!

#LoveYourADK

Each year, millions of people visit the public lands inside the Adirondacks. However you choose to spend your time here, we know the Adirondacks will hold a special place in your heart. We feel the same way. To Love Your Adirondacks is to protect the lands, waters, and communities we all know and love.

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I have learned so much over the years, and I continue to learn each time I go for a hike. I could go on and on about gear, trails, mountains, clothing, etc. A lot of it has been trial and error. I have spent a lot of time reading, looking at maps, learning more about weather, researching different gear… the list goes on.

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