ALLEN MOUNTAIN
via East River Trailhead
Sitting alone in the southern High Peaks, Allen Mountain is the longest out-and-back hike of any stand-alone Adirondack 46er. Its remote location, combined with an unmarked and difficult herd path, makes this hike a true test of endurance and navigation skills. While not technical, the sheer length, remoteness, and lack of trail markings have earned Allen a reputation as one of the most grueling of the 46. Those attempting this peak should be physically prepared and, if possible, hike with someone who has done Allen before.
What to know
Distance
Elevation Gain
Difficulty
Average Time
Highest Point
East River Trailhead
19.6 miles
3,600 feet
6/7
12-14 hours
4,340 feet
Check out the route! (Zoom)
Summit of Allen as viewed from Skylight
Special Considerations:
This hike can be done as an overnight when primitive camping but is not necessary. Go with a friend, and expect it to be long and hard. If you have bad footwear, bring microspikes for the slide up Allen. It’s very slimy. This route involves a mix of unmarked herd paths, overgrown areas, and river crossings, with challenging, steep climbs and slippery, eroded sections, demanding careful navigation. This can not be done in high waters.
DO NOT TAKE any other route on the map. The surrounding logging roads are not faster.
Water Availability:
Water can be found at the Opalescent River and Skylight Brook to filter.
Maximum Grade:
1,050 feet in 0.5 miles—upper half of Allen Mountain ascent..
Sunrise or Sunset:
Not recommended due to long approach and navigation difficulty.
Views:
Summit is in the trees, however a nearby spur trail offers breathtaking views of the Great Range, Panther Gorge, Skylight, and other surrounding peaks from a spur trail.(There's a second view to the east if you can find it)
Dog Friendliness:
Not the best hike for dogs, but fine if your dog is used to this kind of outing.
View Photos of this Hike
Trail Summary
Alternate Approaches
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0.0 Start at East River Trailhead.
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0.1 Turn right at Hudson River, and cross metal suspension bridge.
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0.5 Trail turns left into woods near Lake Jimmy.
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0.8 Reach other side of Lake Jimmy.
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1.2 Pass abandoned ranger shack and Mount Adams Trail, and continue straight.
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1.8 Turn left at logging path fork, arriving at Lake Sally shortly after.
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2.7 Reach another logging path junction, and stay left.
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4.1 Cross Opalescent River.
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5.2 Pass the East River Trail to Lake Colden, continuing straight.
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5.7 Turn left onto a larger logging road, then turn right into an older ranger trailhead.
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5.8 Reach parking lot, and walk to its end.
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8.0 Cross Skylight Brook.
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8.5 Reach base of Allen marked by a flat- walled waterfall.
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9.4 Reach Allen Mountain slide.
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9.7 Summit Allen Mountain, following herd path for better views; turnaround.
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19.6 Arrive back at East River Trailhead.
DO NOT TAKE SURROUNDING LOGGING ROADS
Over the years, logging roads have been reinstituted back into the wilderness. The DEC has forcefully dug up the roads and made extensive drainages that make alternate approaches with more obstacles and slower. They look shorter on maps, but they are not shorter in time. Is highly recommended to take the original standard trail route