Offering a short hike with mighty views, Bald Mountain is in the Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York. Located just north of the village of the Old Forge, Bald Mountain is a popular hiking destination and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Fulton Chain of Lakes. 

Bald Mountain, also known as Rondaxe Mountain, is in the Town of Webb and just north of the Village of Old Forge in Herkimer County. It is part of the Adirondack Park, which is well known for its forever wild wilderness and almost boundless outdoor recreation opportunities.

Most visitors come to Bald Mountain for the hiking trail to its stunning summit. The trail is a moderate hike (depending on weather conditions) and the Bald Mountain Rondaxe Trailhead can be found off of Rondaxe Road, which turns off of State Route 28 about 5 miles north of Old Forge.

The red marked trail is relatively short, approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) in length, making it a popular choice for families and those seeking a quick outdoor adventure. The trail is generally a moderate walk, but it is important to note that in wet conditions, this trail becomes more difficult due to muddy areas and the open rocks that become slippery when wet.

The summit of Bald Mountain offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From the fire tower located at the top, hikers are treated to a 360-degree panorama of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, the Adirondack Mountains, and the vast wilderness that characterizes the Adirondack Park. 

The fire tower at the summit of Bald Mountain doesn't only offer views, but also serves as a historical landmark. While it's no longer used for fire spotting, visitors can climb the tower better views and to gain a unique perspective of the surrounding area. The Fire Tower is also part of the Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge.

For more information

You can find this hike on: 

• Adirondack Park Map - Old Forge and Oswegatchie

• Adirondack Mountain Club’s Western Trails Adirondacks Guidebook

Hike On Guides: Need help on a hike like this? Moe is a NYS licensed hiking and backpacking guide. You can hire him for Hiking, Backpacking and Camping Guide Services at Hike On Guides for hikes in New York, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts.

Gear we used and/or carried on this hike:

• Goodr Sunglasses

• Osprey Talon 22 Pack

• Altra Lone Peak Hiking Shoes

• Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks

• Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles

• Eddie Bauer HYOH T-Shirt

• Eddie Bauer Guide Pro Convertible Pants

• Hiker Trash Husbands Trucker Hat

• Energizer LED Headlamp

• NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad

• Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles

• Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

• Garmin Instinct Watch

• Garmin InReach Explorer+ GPS

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Important Hiking Considerations:

• Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. 

• Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing.

• Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.