A sweet lollipop. Descent from the summit along the southern section of the loop requires caution. It’s easy to get off track.
Black Mountain is one of the lower Adirondack hikes that offers much more than it needs.
The main route is a forgiving climb that's not painful. There’s not much stress in the miles, and you’ll be rewarded in a big way at the top.
Black Mountain overlooks Lake George directly. The views are unusually wide for such an accessible hike. Tongues of blue water penetrate deep into the surrounding mountains, and island-dotted coastlines and long ridges disappear into the distance. It feels larger and more open than many hikes of similar difficulty.
I chose the circular route, which made the day more interesting than simply doing the same way there and back. The descent adds several additional viewpoints overlooking the lake, as well as a really pleasant trail through quiet forest. Navigation on the descent requires care though as there are many intersecting trails and junctions.
This is a varied hike. The place is relaxed and picturesque almost throughout, and there is something to be gained without having to suffer all day.
FAQ
How long does it take to hike the Black Hills near Lake George?
This hike takes 3-4 hours.
What is the elevation gain in the Black Hills of the Adirondacks?
The elevation of this hike is 1,320 feet (approximately 400 meters).
Montenegro Hiking Route Guide
Black Mountain hiking trails include…
- Convenient parking
- If you loop you can easily trace up/down
- An interesting summit
- A wonderful summit ledge with great views
Full details are provided in the hiking notes below, with plenty of photos.
By the way, you might also like…
Black Mountain Trail Notes and Gallery
The walk up is unremarkable, but once you reach the top the day becomes well worth it. There are a few buildings and a tower here, but the Ledge is the main activity and a great place to grab a snack or have a picnic and take a nap. The view is spectacular…
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The mother mountain of this hike is black.

