How to Hike Mount Haystack
The third highest of the Adirondack High Peaks, Mount Haystack is rarely climbed alone. The most popular route travels over Saddleback and Basin first — meaning a single long day earns you three 46ers, all connected by the spectacular Range Trail. At 17.7 miles with nearly 5,000 feet of total climbing, this is a serious undertaking, but the reward matches the effort: a bare, open summit with sweeping views in every direction and a genuine sense of accomplishment that's hard to beat in the Adirondacks.
Getting There: The Garden via Saddleback & Basin
This route starts at the Garden trailhead in Keene Valley and travels the Range Trail north, summiting Saddleback and Basin before finishing on Haystack. Most hikers return via Shorey's Shortcut to Johns Brook Lodge, making it a loop. Here's how the miles break down:
0 – 3.5 mi
Garden to Johns Brook Lodge
The trail begins at the Garden parking area and follows a well-worn path along Johns Brook. The grade is gentle and the forest is beautiful — a forgiving warm-up before the serious climbing ahead. At 3.5 miles you'll arrive at Johns Brook Lodge (JBL), the DEC outpost and a natural first rest stop. Fill up on water here if needed.
3.5 – 7.5 mi
JBL to Saddleback Mountain
From JBL, pick up the Range Trail heading toward the ridgeline. The trail climbs steadily through the woods before the terrain opens up and gets serious — Saddleback's upper section involves steep, near-vertical rock scrambles that are exposed and require hands-and-feet climbing. No technical gear is needed, but this stretch demands attention and dry conditions. The summit of Saddleback at roughly 7.5 miles is your first 46er of the day.
7.5 – 8.5 mi
Saddleback to Basin Mountain
The Range Trail continues roughly one mile from Saddleback's summit to Basin Mountain — peak number two. The ridge walk between them is one of the finest stretches of trail in the Adirondacks, with open views and a real sense of being above it all. Basin's summit at 4,827 ft marks the high point before the descent toward Haystack.
8.5 – ~10.5 mi
Basin to Haystack Summit
From Basin, turn left at the base of the summit rocks and descend gradually to the top of a steep ledge, then drop sharply down a series of ledges for 0.4 miles to the Shorey Short Cut junction. Continue past a designated campsite and begin climbing again to the junction with the yellow-marked Haystack trail. Follow it up to Little Haystack — a convincing but aggravating false summit — then dip into a short col before the final 0.3-mile push along the ridge to Haystack's bare, open top. The views from the summit are among the best in the entire High Peaks.
Make It a Two-Day Trip
Given the distance and elevation, many hikers choose to stay overnight at one of the lean-tos near Johns Brook Lodge, splitting the mileage across two days. It transforms a brutal day hike into a genuinely enjoyable backpacking trip — and gives you time to linger on those ridge views. Full details on the Basin and Saddleback approach →
Directions to the Trailhead
📍 From Lake Placid, drive toward Keene Valley on Route 73. After the post office, look for the DEC sign on the right at Adirondack Street. Turn right, follow the road as it becomes Johns Brook Lane, and continue 1.5 miles to the Garden parking lot. If the lot is full, parking is available in Keene Valley or at Marcy Field — check current shuttle schedules before your trip as they change seasonally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Mount Haystack?
Most hikers should plan for a 10–12 hour day. The combination of distance (17.7 miles), cumulative climbing across three peaks, and technical terrain on Saddleback makes this one of the longest days available from any Adirondack trailhead. An early start — on trail by 6am — is strongly recommended.
Do I have to climb Saddleback and Basin to reach Haystack?
The most popular route does go over both peaks first via the Range Trail. There is also an approach via Shorey's Shortcut directly from the Phelps Trail, which bypasses Saddleback and Basin — but most hikers embrace the three-peak day since all three summits count toward the 46.
How hard are the rock scrambles on Saddleback?
The scrambles on Saddleback are the most technical section of the day — steep, exposed, and near-vertical in spots. No ropes or climbing gear are needed, but wet rock makes it significantly more dangerous. If conditions are questionable, this is not the day for this route.
When is the best time to hike Mount Haystack?
July through September offers the most reliable conditions. The route crosses significant exposed ridgeline, so weather matters more here than on most Adirondack trails. Avoid this route in early spring when snow and ice linger on the upper ledges of Saddleback.
Is there parking at the Garden trailhead?
Yes, but the Garden lot fills quickly on summer weekends. If it's full, overflow parking is available in Keene Valley and at Marcy Field, with a seasonal shuttle to the trailhead. Check current shuttle schedules before your trip — they vary by season and year.
Can I camp on this route?
Yes — there are designated campsites and lean-tos near Johns Brook Lodge, making this an excellent overnight trip. Splitting it into two days takes the pressure off and lets you enjoy the ridge at a more relaxed pace.