Macomb Mountain
- Distance8 miRound trip
- Summit4,405 ftElevation
- Ascent2,344 ftTotal gain
Macomb is one of the unmarked peaks in the Dix Wilderness, an Adirondack High Peak often hiked in conjunction with the Dix peaks and Hough, particularly given that the trailhead is quite remote. The most popular way up is the new slide, although it is not so new anymore, and it provides excellent views of the lowlands below. Given its location, Macomb is also a great option for avoiding the summer crowds.
The route
The hike begins at the Elk Lake trailhead and follows the Elk Lake-Dix Trail before turning up Slide Brook.
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0 – 2.3 mi
Elk Lake to Slide Brook
Take the Elk Lake-Dix Trail to Slide Brook, 2.3 miles past Elk Lake.
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Next ~1 mi
Along the brook
Continue along the brook for just over 1 mile, where you will reach the base of the slide coming in at the right.
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Slide
Up the slide
Hike up the slide, enjoying the view along the way and watching your footing on the loose rock and dirt.
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Last 0.3 mi
Ridge to the summit
At the top of the slide you will see a path on the ridge, which takes you about 0.3 miles to the summit.
The views
The slide provides excellent views of the lowlands below, and the summit has a decent view, despite being mostly wooded.
Often hiked with
Macomb is often combined with South Dix, Grace Peak, Hough Peak and Dix Mountain. For an inside perspective, read our trip report on Macomb, South Dix and Grace Peak.
High Peak details
- Difficulty
- Very strenuous
- 46er rank
- #21 of 46
- Range
- Dix Range
- Trail type
- Herd path, no maintained trail
- Trailhead
- Elk Lake
Trailhead and map
To reach the Elk Lake trailhead, follow Route 87 south from Keene and turn off at Exit 29, following Blue Ridge Road to the left toward Newcomb. After 4 miles, Elk Lake Road turns 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.
Check before you go: Elk Lake Road crosses private land. The gate at Clear Pond closes to vehicles for part of the year, and hiking through the conservation easement can close during hunting season. When the gate is closed and hiking is open, park at the Upper Elk Lake Road lot, which adds about 4.6 miles round trip. See DEC's backcountry information and Elk Lake Lodge's road and trail closures page for current status.
Trail resources
- Conditions
- Conditions change fast. Check current trail conditions and DEC's High Peaks page before heading out.
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