Super cool and beautiful place to hike there are an abundance of trails a few picnic areas and for those of you who don't wanna hike you can drive up to the top! Currently it's free to drive up as when I passed the toll booth it stated so! This one will be short and sweet as it's just beautiful here in the trees overlooking the lake! Overall this was an awesome find and the view the breeze blowing through my hair was satisfying beyond any means as this chill relaxing spot was much needed! read more

Prospect Mountain - The beautiful view of Lake George! - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

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This is an excellent autumn hike with amazing views. Although short at only two miles from trailhead to summit, you'll need proper shoes for this hike and you will warm up due to the steep grade and moderate rock scrambling. We took the red trail all the way to the top and we took the blue trail on the way down (it merges with the red trail). I'm giving four stars because the trail marking are really good, except where they aren't and just disappear for a while or entirely. The red trail is mostly well marked, though there were still times when we just had to keep heading up the mountain because we couldn't find the next marker. On our way down, the blue trail was really, really well marked until it just stopped and we could not find another marker. I'm not a fan of going off trail because I know it can be dangerous and it can be damaging to local ecosystems, but without a clear trail to follow and nearly a mile into the woods, we did the best we could (kept heading downhill and to the right hoping to find the red trail, but eventually finding the road anyway). If you start at the trailhead, you will walk up metal stairs and onto a walkway over the highway. From there, you'll follow the trail about a mile up where you will find a road. Beware of traffic, cross the road, and you'll have another mile to go to reach the summit (you can take red or blue trail) where there is a parking lot and great viewing. read more

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Prospect Mountain is the most easily accessible 2k+ mountain in the Lake George area. When you're looking Prospect Mountain, you honestly have to view it as two separate entities: the drive up to the summit on Veteran's Memorial Highway and the hiking trail. While they both get you to the same place, they are exceedingly different experiences. When driving up, there is generally a $10 per carload fee. Driving up the roadway there are three scenic overlooks you can pull off into, each providing unique vantage points of Lake George. Once you reach the large parking area near the summit, you can either hike the remaining distance or catch a shuttle to and from the top. At the top there are several vantage points, a pavilion, numerous picnic tables, etc. This year when we went, there was no fee, but also no shuttle, so hiking the last bit was your only way up. You could either choose to walk up the longer road which was less steep, or take the shorter trail with its increased grade. The lookout points were also not as scenic as in years past, as apparently cutback have limited the trimming and clearing of trees and brush in the areas. Still lots to see, but you might have to stand on one of the massive rocks in surrounding the parking areas for your best views. Now, the hiking trail. One of the earlier reviews mentioned having to drive an hour out of the Village to get to the trail, but I'm not sure where she was headed as the trailhead is 5 blocks off of the main drag of Canada St. in the village. There is no parking lot for the trailhead, only street parking, and it fills up fast! The hike starts by crossing the pedestrian bridge over I-87, then up the well marked trail you go. Now, this may be a tourist attraction, but the hike is no joke, especially for beginners. Experienced hikers will have absolutely no issues, but novices should come prepared. It is steep, and it is fairly long. This is not just a stroll around your local park, it is actually a mountain, and you need to come prepared. Good shoes and water are musts. It's a nice hike with several nice views and stop-offs, especially once you pass the halfway point. So, whether you opt to drive it or hoof it, I think Prospect Mountain is worth doing at least once. It's not one of the most impressive mountains in the Adirondacks by any stretch, but it ease of access, nice views and well provisioned summit area make it a worthwhile visit. read more

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It was a beautiful day and we decided to check out prospect mountain - WOW. It's off season so no shuttle and no fee to enter the park. There are 3 lookouts, Narrows, Panorama and Eagle's Eye. All had expansive views and with the fall colors in the background made for some spectacular pics. There's a parking lot that is next to the trail to the summit. The trail is about a 15-20 hike, but it's very very very steep. We took a few brakes and some of the older crowd did the same. BUT don't give up, the summit was amazing! It was definitely worth it. For those who don't want to do the hike, you can drive up but you're not supposed to park or stop. It's worth walking up. read more

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I have been up here a couple of times over the past 30 years. I have often driven up, but did the hike about ten years ago too. I moved out of the state of New York a few years ago, so I like to visit Lake George when I am home visiting Albany. I convinced my friend to drive up to the top of Prospect Mountain with me on my most recent trip. We pulled up to the gate, the older gentleman selling tickets told us we couldn't use a credit card. Luckily, I had cash and it's only $10 a car load, not bad as I had just been to a mountain in NC that was $20 PER PERSON. The other plus of Prospect Mountain is it's convenient proximity to Lake George Village, no 45 minute drives to rural areas necessary. As we drove up the mountain there were numerous scenic overlooks with adjacent parking lots. I love to take photos, so I was in heaven. It's neat to see the Northway and Lake George Village from way up high. It was a slightly overcast day when we went but the views were still great. There were a few picnic areas too, so this is a great spot to bring lunch. The only bummer was when we got to the highest parking lot, there wasn't a tram running to the top on the day we went. We walked up via a steep, but paved path, it took about 10 minutes max. Even if you didn't do this, the views were still great from the parking lot and overlooks. I'm really glad I took the time to visit, it was a fun day! This is a great activity for those with mobility impairments that still want to experience views from high up on the mountain. Bring the whole family! read more

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The views from this mountain are beautiful. You have a complete mountaintop view of Lake George and the entire surrounding town. If you're driving up, know that it's a $10 entrance fee, and then you park and take a free - and very popular - shuttle up to the peak, or walk up for about ten minutes. It's a must if you're visiting LG, but I wouldn't drive from very far away to complete this trail. There are park benches and a grill up top, but strangely, I didn't see any bathrooms. The water tanks were also empty, so make sure to bring your own. It seems like the place needs a bit more upkeep for travelers and visitors. Go early in the morning for some clear views! Sadly, they close early, which makes no sense, so you can't watch the sunset from here. read more

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Not a bad day trip. Cost $10 to get in per car. Plenty of parking in the top lot before you take a decent walk-up to the summit. Good views pack some snacks or lunch and don't be a slob and litter. read more

Nice ride up to the summit! Beautiful views of Lake George and surrounding mountains. Bathrooms in main parking lot, picnic tables and grills, limited parking at summit. read more

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Fantastic hiking experience! The hike is challenging, but doable through beautiful forests all leading up to a gorgeous view of Lake George. A very rewarding and memorable hike and experience. It is quite a drive from Lake George city center to get here (about 1 hour), and the road is not very paved as you get near the mountain. The drive there can also be through winding road so prepare your car, driving, and stomach. Drive slowly as you approach closer through the unpaved dirt paths. You may park in one of about 8 parking lots. Try to park in the closest one if you can so that you do not have to walk extra amounts before you even start the hike. Preferably get there early in the morning to beat any later crowds and find parking. read more

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Great view! And you can drive to the top! Bring some water and they had port-a-potties available. read more

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This was well worth the $20! There are three separate overlooks as you make your way up the mountain! When you get to weds the top, you park your car and you can either hike to the summit or take a shuttle! The shuttle is dog friendly! There are spots to grill out and have a picnic at the top if you wanted to make an afternoon of it! read more

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Hiked to the 2,030 ft summit. PROS: stunning views of mountain horizons in NY, VT, and MA, at the summit is a picnic area, benches to sit, large boulders on which to sit/stand, & a port-a-potty available, CONS: it's like climbing Jacob's ladder. Every step goes higher & higher. It's a very steep, extremely rocky/small boulders trail up what appears to be a dry creek bed. Opportunities to twist, sprain, or break an ankle abound with every step. read more

$10 for a car to get in is beyond cheap. All the lookout spots on the way to the top have amazing views. Once at the top, you can park and hike up to the very top or take a short bus ride. The views are amazing. Take the time and go up there! read more

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This hike was tough. Okay, I'm not in the best shape right now. But 3 miles uphill? C'mon Prospect Mountain! You're killin' me! As we took the trek up, it seemed to get more and more tough. Steeper and more rocky terrain, less cold water in my camelback and bugs gnawing at my calves... Was this ever going to end? We desperately tried asking hikers on their way back down when the pain would end...everyone promised that it would come soon. We continued the climb. Eyes on the prize. Finally it came. And we found ourselves at the top of Prospect mountain, overlooking the beautiful Adirondack region. Was the view nice? Yes. Was it breathtaking? No. It was't worth the strenuous uphill battle. My calves were sore for 4 days after. Next time I come I'm making the drive. #Lazygirlproblems read more

Prospect Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

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Fantastic hiking experience! The hike is through beautiful forests all leading up to a gorgeous view of Lake George. A very rewarding and memorable hike and experience. And you can drive to the top! Great drive to see the foliage. We stopped at the 3 areas to see. The second one was the best view. The last stop wasn't the highest but had great views and you could walk up to the top if you wanted. Really the best way to see the lake as a whole and the mountains of the Adirondacks without actually doing a climb yourself. It's a great way to escape the usual craziness of the town and get back to nature. The views at the summit were worth the work. The scenery on the way up was also beautiful. We highly recommend this hike. You must come visit here. You can drive or hike! Drive to the top and walk up to the top is the best! read more

You will definitely get in a good workout hiking up this mountain. Since the hike it pretty much all uphill (and pretty steep at parts), the hike took us about 1.5 hrs with a couple of breaks. If you plan to hike up during the summer months, it's best to go first thing in the morning to avoid the heat. That said, the trees will provide plenty of shade during the hike. Even though the hiking trail is a bit rocky, there are some wooded paths that border the rocky path. Once you get to to the top of the mountain, the scenic views will make it all worth it. With the exception of trees and rocks, there is not much to see on the way up. If you have folks in your group who do not like to hike, it might be better to drive up the mountain to the scenic overlook (or take plenty of breaks during the hike). At the top, there is a picnic area and some old remnants of the rail system. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 (i think), the picnic tables were locked up. read more

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Really the best way to see the lake as a whole, and the mountains of the Adirondacks without actually doing a climb yourself. We've done this mini excursion a few times over the years. It's a great way to escape the usual craziness of the town and get back to nature. read more

You must come visit here. The view is breath taken!! You can drive or hike! Drive to the top and walk up to the top is the best!

My husband and I have been hiking in the Smokey Mountains in Tennessee and the Shenandoah in Virginia but this trail was by far the toughest we've ever done. We were able to walk from our hotel room to the beginning of the trail and we hiked the marked foot trail up to the summit. We were dressed for colder weather so we had to stop a couple times and take some layers off but glad we had the extra clothes for the hike back down since it was later in the day and the weather was a little colder. Although the hike was more difficult than we've done before it was fun and the views at the summit were worth the work. The scenery on the way up was also beautiful and it was fun to watch all the chipmunks running around and hiding. We highly recommend this hike. read more

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Excellent views!! We tried the hiking trail today. I was very much not wearing the correct footwear and it was very much a challenge, but it was also a blast. My son and husband also enjoyed themselves. Loved that there were jugs of water to refuel once we made it up the mountain. I'm going to deduct a star, though, because of the utterly disgusting port-o-potty. I mean, I know they are gross but I've never seen one THAT gross before read more

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Trees block view on overlook #2 and 3. For a Veteran's Memorial park, no military discount? Cut the trees and honor the military. Thank you. read more

Gorgeous but difficult hike. We had to turn back near the end because the snow caused it to be so slippery. A challenge for a newbie but the trail is fairly well marked and it felt like an adventure. read more

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Beautiful landmark to visit all year long! The view from the top is just breathe taking! We have paid and taken the drive up several times. In the summer time you can park in the large parking lot and walk or take shuttle to the top. The bathroom is off of the large parking area. No bathrooms at the top. In the winter you can snowmobile to the top! One of my absolute favorites while out snowmobiling! read more

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If you're looking to get a little of the ADK hiking without the grit/sweat this is your mountain. It is 10 bucks to enter and you drive up a scenic route. There are stops along the way and great views. Want to trek to the top? There is a large parking lot with a spot to sit on Picnic benches, use the lavatory and get some water. From this parking lot you can take the bus up to the top or hike the short trail on your own two feet. Views are great. If you're a history buff you will enjoy the bulletin boards with info about a popular hotel/house and railway that used to exist. Part of the railway is still there. Make sure to take a left and go down to the park area when you're up at the top. You won't be sorry. read more

Prospect Mountain - driving up. - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

Amazing, worth the drive/hike. Just be aware that they do close off the summit during thunderstorms for obvious reasons... luckily the storm passed quickly for us and we were able to see the amazing view. read more

Prospect Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

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Great scenery! Drive to the top of the mountain or hike it! Plenty of spots to pull over and get great views of the beautiful Lake George! read more

Prospect Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

I have been going to Prospect mountain for years. There is a nice drive up the mountain with several lookouts to see lake George along the way. Close to the top a parking lot with a tram ride to the top with beautiful views and picnic area. WRONG That was the past. This year the brush and small trees were not cleared so you can't see out the lookout point. In the parking area they stopped the tram ride to the top and picnic area. You can hike up if you want. I'm in my seventies and have bad knees so hiking isn't an option for me, the $10 fee to drive up the mountain felt like a real rip off. If you are a hiker you might enjoy the top if you they kept the brush clear which I can't speak to. read more

Great place. Amazing views! Been there many times and encourage anyone in the area to take the drive up. The only reason I'm giving it 3 stars (otherwise 5 stars) because of the shuttle bus driver. She was extremely rude and seemed like it was the last thing she wanted to be doing at the time. It was towards the end of the day as they close the mountain at 5pm (which I didn't remember). She started her speech to the passengers with "this is my last run because I'm outta here! You can get off the shuttle when we get up there but just so you know they close the mountain gate at 5 and you will be locked in until 8:30pm if you don't get out so just keep that in mind!" If anyone wants someone to do a customer service video on how NOT to treat customers, she is your gal! Her tone and mannerisms were just nasty! I know everyone has off days but her delivery was horrible. read more

Beautiful views...just upset we couldn't go all the way to top it was closed off end of August otherwise we loved it and look forward to going back! read more

Prospect Mountain - Beautiful views...just upset we couldn't go all the way to top it was closed off end of August - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

This place is sooo worth it. Three turnouts with different views of Lake George followed by a summit view that encompasses three states. The hike to the top is short but heavy cardio. There's also a shuttle, as well. Definitely worth going. read more

my college friends and I went to Prospect Mountain and it was like our own version of "Predator". while no one died, it was an all-star cast of our friends, and we did even see a chopper...so of course, I yelled "GET TO THE CHOPPAAAAA!!!!" this is a deceptive trail. from start to end it's about 3 miles, however, it's quite steep and very rocky in some sections. I highly advise taking the marked trail if it's your first time. the hardest parts of the trail are the top half of the first section, and the bottom half of the second section. be careful of wet rocks. it's only about 2000 feet high, but the views of Lake George from the top are excellent. in addition, there are remnants of an old cable car, as well as a grilling area (bring your own charcoal and food), bathrooms, benches to rest on, and water refills. driving up to the top is $10. only do that if you have children - they are NOT going to make it up on this hike. you wouldn't believe how many families we saw quitting before finishing the first section when they realized it's a tough trail. doesn't require boots, at least in summer. just some good athletic shoes, and a bottle of water. BILLY! GET DOWWWWWN!!!!! read more

Prospect Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

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I loved it, but unfortunately three of our group of six did not finish. We're not all is us are in the best of shape, and some of us even have torn up knees. Bottom line is this hike is straight up, and you never really have flat areas to catch your breath. Exercise caution in wet conditions as you need to step on rock that will likely be slick. SECRET: you don't need to hike to see the great views, you can drive almost to top, talk short walk to summit. read more

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My husband and our 1 year old did the drive up the the top. It's $10 per car. I got the recommendation from the Holiday Inn concierge when we asked for where to go for a scenic drive in the area. Lucky us that is was an amazingly clear and cool day. There are about 5 pull out areas on the way to the top. I think its the third one that has the widest view of Lake George. At the top there is a very large parking lot with restroom facilities and hiking trails as well as a shuttle that drives you up to the summit. In our pre-baby days we would have definitely liked to hike around but it was near nap time and we had to keep our child from getting fidgety and cranky so we took the 2 min shuttle to the top. Views were really breathtaking along the ride up as well as once you get to the summit. It's panoramic view of the Lake and the surrounding mountains all the way to Vermont. There are huge rocks at the top that you can climb up for an even higher look. Lots of picnic tables plus some old cables and historic info about the hotel that used to be located there. Definitely worth taking a trek up to the top. I would also recommend wearing good shoes, packing water and even a lunch or snack. read more

Ticket booth operator told us it was a 4 min walk to the summit from the uppermost parking lot. Ah, nope. Also told us there was a shuttle. Nope again. Waste of time. At least money goes to preservation....I hope. read more

Really liked the view here. I wasn't able to hike up the mountain, but the drive up was good with different stops to enjoy the view. If I had more time, I would have had a picnic up on the top. read more

Prospect Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

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Normally the views from the top are spectacular but be aware that this summer the top of Prospect Mountain is closed for repairs. You can only park in the parking lot close to the summit but cannot take the shuttle or even walk to the top. On the upside the entrance fee has been eliminated. read more

$10 admission to get into the park, numerous parking stops on the drive to the top for variety of different scenery and views of Lake George and atleast 100 miles of views from Albany to Vermont. Short little bus ride to the top summit with picnic areas and grills. read more

We paid $10 to drive up. Upon arriving at the level with the bathrooms, (views were not that great on the stops on the way) we found only motorcycles could go to the top. We had asked the person taking the admission money about the length of the ride and other questions and they never said we couldn't go to the top with a car. Unless it's Fall and the leaves have changed, don't waste your money. read more

It was confusing at first because the signs said forrest reserve and not prospect mountain but we parked near the 5 flights of stairs entrance and then crossed over the highway. It was a rocky climb up to the next highway definitely not recommended for kids. The red trail is a shorter 40 minute hike to the top and blue for a longer maybe 1 hr and a half way to the top with some areas a little more moderate hiking than beginner status but eventually made it to the top and it was beautiful view, kind of expected more but there was a picnic area and porter potties but if you dont have the time to hike you can drive up and pay 10$ for a shuttle to the top. read more

Prospect Mountain - prospect mountain - Hiking Near Me - Lake George, New York

This is my favorite place to take visitors. Every friend, family member, whomever visits gets a drive up Prospect Mountain. The views of the Lake George area are spectacular. I recommend definitely stopping at each vista point and not just going to the parking area. I also recommend taking the shuttle (you paid for it upon admission) to the summit and walk around the area. This is worth the price of admission!!! read more