Meet the Founder
Jonathan Zaharek
Jonathan is an Adirondack-based photographer, filmmaker, and outdoor enthusiast with a deep passion for the mountains. His family has vacationed in the Adirondacks for over 100 years, fostering a deep-rooted connection to the region. In 2019, he made the Adirondacks his home, dedicating himself full-time to exploring, documenting, and advocating for these mountains.
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Having traversed over 5,000 miles across the Adirondack wilderness, Jonathan saw a need for a centralized, all-in-one resource that truly represents what it means to explore these trails. From the highest peaks to the quietest backcountry paths, he has dedicated himself to not just hiking the Adirondacks, but living them—capturing their raw beauty, understanding their challenges, and building a community of like-minded adventurers.
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With Hike ADK, his mission is simple: to create the most advanced, interactive, and trusted platform for Adirondack hikers. Whether you're chasing summits, exploring new trails, or just looking for the best local insights, Jonathan is committed to making Hike ADK the ultimate resource for the Adirondack hiking community. You can follow Jonathan separately at the icons below for more ADK content.
What is Hike ADK?
Hike ADK is more than just a hiking resource—it’s a movement, a community, and a platform built for those who don’t just hike the Adirondacks, but love, protect, and truly know them. These mountains are far more than just trails and dirt; they hold history, adventure, and a deep connection that calls to those who walk them.
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This platform exists to give like-minded lovers of the Adirondacks a place to deepen their relationship with these mountains while also providing a welcoming introduction for those just beginning their journey. Whether you’re a first-time visitor looking for guidance or a seasoned 46er wanting to explore your passion on a deeper level, Hike ADK is your ultimate resource.
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We are a driving force in the Adirondack community, an ever-evolving entity that seeks to inspire, educate, and connect. More than just a place to find trail information, Hike ADK is about fostering a lifelong relationship with these mountains and ensuring their protection for generations to come.
Why Hike ADK?
The Adirondacks deserve a true central hub for hiking knowledge, a place where community and information come together. Right now, there isn't one great, all-in-one resource where hikers can find the best, most accurate information—until now.
I created Hike ADK because I’ve spent years gathering an immense amount of knowledge about these mountains, and I believe that knowledge shouldn't just stay with me. The more we share, the more we learn, and the better prepared we all are to experience and protect this incredible place.
This platform isn’t just about my knowledge—it’s about everyone’s knowledge, coming together to create a stronger, smarter, and more connected hiking community. Hike ADK is my way of giving back to the park that has given me so much, and my hope is that it becomes a place where others can do the same.