Challenge: 46 High Peaks · Seward Range ·

#40 Mount Emmons

The third peak in the Seward Range, Mount Emmons is named for Ebenezer Emmons, a geologist who is credited with naming the Adirondacks and who also led the first recorded ascent of Mount Marcy. Despite his accomplishments, Emmons’ namesake peak is not well known, as it is challenging to get to and one of the tougher high peaks to climb. This peak is ranked #40 in elevation among the Adirondack High Peaks.

Trail Stats:

Distance	18 miles round-trip when hiked with Seward and Donaldson
Elevation	4,040 feet

For the first part of this hike, please see the hike description for Seward. Follow the herd path west along the ridge from Donaldson to Emmons. The herd path is fairly well-trodden most of the way, although be cognizant of how there may be areas of blowdown in some spots, making the trail potentially hard to stick to. You will want to have a compass for this hike (as with all of those in the Sewards range) and be sure you’re pointed west from Donaldson towards the summit of 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.

Back to Adirondack Hiking

High Peaks Map

Plan & prepare for your ADK adventure! ADK Mountain Club's topographic trail map, High Peaks: Adirondack Trail Map, revised edition as of Summer 2021. The go-to map for the latest on High Peaks trails, lean-tos, campsites, and public-private land boundaries, many of which have changed in the last year alone.

Purchase Here

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.

Listen Here

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.

Take The Pledge

Sponsored By

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.