Anthony’s Nose via Record Hill Trail

Why go

A fast, view-heavy hike that keeps you honest on the way up. This out-and-back climbs through hardwood forest to Record Hill—a ridge just east of the dramatic Anthony’s Nose cliffs—then cashes out in sweeping Lake George vistas. The official route purposefully stops shy of the cliff edge to protect nesting peregrine falcons, but the lookouts are still among the lake’s best.

The hike

From the small trailhead on Schwerdtfeger Road, the trail works gently uphill for about 0.3 miles before turning north and making a sustained, steeper push to Record Hill. Expect a short but meaningful workout with some rocky footing. Total distance is about 1.6 miles round trip (out-and-back), with roughly 665 feet of gain packed into the final half‑mile. The marked trail ends at Record Hill—turn around here.

Views and nature

The payoff is classic Lake George: blue water, island-dotted bays, and surrounding Adirondack foothills. A second viewpoint offers a north-looking angle along the lake. Keep an eye on the sky in late spring and summer—peregrine falcons hunt and soar over the cliffs below. The mix of cliffs and rocky outcrops creates prime habitat for these protected raptors.

Need-to-know

• This hike does not summit Anthony’s Nose; there’s no official trail beyond Record Hill, and traveling toward the cliffs is off-limits to protect nesting falcons.
• Surfaces are natural: dirt, roots, and rock. It can be slick when wet.
• No amenities—bring water, snacks, and bug/tick protection.
• Open year-round dawn to dusk; snowshoeing is allowed in winter when conditions warrant.

Best time to hike

Fall brings peak color and crisp air—arguably the best season here. Spring and summer deliver lush greens and the best shot at falcon sightings. Winter is quiet and scenic for snowshoeing after storms. Arrive early on nice weekends for parking and calmer viewpoints; the preserve is generally quieter than many west-shore Lake George hikes.

Bottom line

If you want big views for a small time investment—and don’t mind a steep final half-mile—Record Hill delivers. If your heart is set on standing atop the Anthony’s Nose cliffs, this isn’t that hike by design.