Cat Mountain Summit

Why go

Cat Mountain pays off with one of the broadest panoramas around—think sweeping, 270-degree views of Lake George, its islands, the Tongue Range, and distant Adirondack peaks. The summit is a big, open slab of bedrock, so there’s room to roam, spread out, and actually enjoy the view instead of elbowing for a spot.

Routes and difficulty

• Fastest route: From Edgecomb Pond Road it’s about 1.9 miles one-way to the summit—much of it on old logging road, with the final third turning rocky and more rugged.
• Longer option: From Valley Woods Road you can make a fuller day of it by tagging Thomas Mountain first, then following the yellow-marked ridge 2–2.3 miles to Cat. Expect rougher footing on the ridge between the two peaks.

Overall this is a moderate hike with a steeper, rockier push near the top.

What you’ll see

The approach weaves through mixed hardwoods and pines, past wetlands, streams, and beaver ponds. Near the summit the forest opens to glacially scoured rock with seasonal low-bush blueberries. From the top, scan Lake George’s islands, Trout Lake, and the Tongue Mountain Range—binoculars make the distant details pop.

Wildlife and nature notes

Along the lower wetlands you may spot beaver activity, plus plenty of songbirds and small mammals typical of the southern Adirondacks. Blueberry season adds a sweet bonus on the summit itself.

Land, stewardship, and rules

These trails sit on NYS DEC land and are maintained by the Lake George Land Conservancy. It’s carry-in/carry-out, pets must be leashed, and there are no facilities. Backcountry camping is allowed up to three nights (at least 150 feet from roads, trails, and water); fires are permitted but must be attended. Cat is also part of local challenges like the Lake George 12ster.

Best time to visit

• Lighting: Sunrise and late afternoon deliver the best contrast and color on the lake and ridgelines.
• Crowds: Weekdays are quieter; weekends see more traffic, especially in fall foliage season.
• Seasons: Spring can be wet and muddy; summer brings bugs; fall offers the showstopper views. Winter is possible with proper gear, but footing on the upper slabs can be slick.

Make the most of it

If you want maximum view for minimal time, use the Edgecomb Pond route. For a more rugged outing and two summits, start at Valley Woods Road, hit Thomas, then traverse to Cat. Either way, bring plenty of water, snacks, and a map—there’s nothing to buy on site.