Challenge: 46 High Peaks · Seward Range ·

#33 Mount Donaldson

Named after Alfred Lee Donaldson, the first person to author a complete history of the Adirondacks, Mount Donaldson is remote, but offers beautiful and sweeping views of its neighboring peaks in the Seward Range as well as the surrounding lowlands and Long Lake. Donaldson (ranked #33 in elevation among the Adirondack High Peaks) is climbed in conjunction with the other peaks in the Seward Range, which due to their remoteness are considered four of the toughest high peaks to climb.

Trail Stats:

Distance	~18 miles round-trip for Seward, Donaldson, and Emmons
Elevation	4,140 feet
Ascent	2,360 feet

Most hike Donaldson with Seward and Emmons – to hike Donaldson, follow the hiking guide for Seward. From the summit of Seward, you will follow a herd path down along the western side of the Seward ridge. The trail will open up to expansive views towards Donaldson and Emmons. After taking in the view, continue along the ridgeline toward Donaldson. Before the summit the herd path will split – to the right there is a lookout about 75 feet away, to the left the trail continues on towards the summit. After summiting Donaldson, you can continue along the ridgeline to Emmons.

Trailhead:

Beginning in Saranac Lake, follow route 3 towards Tupper Lake. Continue for around 13 miles to the turnoff for Corey’s Road on your left. Follow Corey’s Road for 5.5 miles until you reach the trailhead on your right.

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High Peaks Map

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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.

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.

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ADK 46er Journey: Brecka Coonradt

We welcome Brecka Coonradt, who shares her experience hiking the 46 Adirondack High Peaks to become an ADK 46er. Enjoy following along below as she shares her stories and lessons learned throughout her journey.

ADK 46er Winter Journey: Jay Whitbourne

I have seen some of the most amazing cloud inversions during the winter and had some of the most surreal moments when the snow conditions are just right, the sky is clear, the wind is calm and the air isn't nipping at your skin.

ADK Winter 46er Journey: Sam Perkins

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.