Challenge: 46 High Peaks ·

#16 Wright Peak

Wright Peak is one of the Adirondack 46ers of shorter mileage to hike – it was my first at age eight! Predictably, it’s great for families with younger kids who are up for the challenge and is an enjoyable hike with good views throughout. Near the summit, there is a plaque marking the site of a 1962 plane crash, and you can sometimes still find debris scattered nearby.

Trail Stats:

Distance: 7 miles

Elevation: 4,580 ft

Ascent: 2,400 ft

Starting at the Adirondack Loj, follow the Van Hoevenberg trail for 1 mile, where you will meet the junction for the trail to Marcy Dam to the left. Continue straight towards Algonquin on a gradually upwards trail for 0.4 miles until you reach the turn-off on the left for Whale’s Tail. Stay straight here and continue as the trail climbs upwards for 0.9 miles, at which point the trail veers right and steeply upwards to a waterfall view. Continue up across alternatingly steep and level sections for another 0.7 miles until you reach the junction for the trail up Wright at 3.1 miles. Take the left towards Wright. At 3.3 miles the trail will break above the treeline and the trail will be marked by cairns the rest of way to the top. After another 0.2 miles, you will reach the summit and be able to take in a view of the neighboring peaks.

Directions to Adirondack Loj:

📍Google Maps // From Lake Placid, take route 73 towards Keene, turning right onto Adirondack Loj Road, which you will follow to the end. There will be a toll booth at the entrance where you will have to pay a parking fee.

Back to Adirondack Hiking

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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#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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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.

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46 Adirondack High Peaks