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.

Just north of Old Forge in Herkimer County, Bald Mountain—also known as Rondaxe Mountain—is a great destination in the Town of Webb and part of the Adirondack Park’s forever wild landscape. This area is famed for its wilderness and endless recreational opportunities, and Bald Mountain’s hiking trail to the Fire Tower is a must-do for visitors.

The trail to the summit is a moderate, family-friendly hike that starts at the Rondaxe Trailhead, just off Rondaxe Road, about five miles from Old Forge along State Route 28. It’s a relatively short trek, only about a mile, making it ideal for a quick adventure. But don’t let its brevity fool you—the trail can be tricky, especially after rain, with open rock slabs and muddy patches that demand careful footing.

Once at the top, the summit rewards hikers with jaw-dropping views of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, the vast expanse of the Adirondacks, and a 360-degree panorama from the fire tower. While the tower is no longer in use for fire spotting, it’s still climbable and open, offering a unique vantage point to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding Adirondack wilderness.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a family looking for a memorable outdoor experience, Bald Mountain is a perfect slice of the Adirondacks to explore.

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You can find this hike on: 

• Adirondack Park Map – https://amzn.to/3FMPEhg
• Western Adirondacks Guidebook – https://alnk.to/44Ur66W
• Adirondack Park Map Bundle – https://amzn.to/49tQe0Y

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 Shoes
• Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks
• Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles
• Patagonia Nine Trails Shorts
• EMS Men’s Essential Peak Tank
• 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
• CNOC Vecto Water Container
• Garmin Instinct Watches
• Garmin InReach Explorer+ GPS

Some product links are affiliate links and I earn from qualifying purchases. Others are links through the Amazon Influencer program and as an Amazon Influencer, I earn from qualifying purchases. Still others, I just want you to know about some good gear we enjoy!

Important Hiking Considerations:

1. Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions.
2. Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing.
3. 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.