Pros & cons
PROS
- Historic graded switchbacks make the climb steady rather than punishing
- Often less crowded than other Lake George viewpoints
CONS
- Views are mainly at the very end—forest blocks scenery on the way
- Muddy and slick after rain with lots of rocks and roots
Access via Lake George RV Park and the Warren County Bike Trail; walk toward Lake George and watch for blue markers on the right (about 1/4–1/2 mile from Rt 149). Check the RV Park map or Guest Services for exact locations.
Rocky, rooty, and can be muddy/slippery after rain; unsupervised trail. Stay on blue-blazed path and respect private property near the summit. Dusk and winter conditions increase risk.
Why hike it
If you want a quick Adirondack-style workout with a legit payoff, this blue-blazed climb up French Mountain delivers. It’s a forested, moderately steep out-and-back with historic switchbacks (the route traces an old carriage road) and a proper panoramic view over the Lake George area at the top.
What to expect
Underfoot it’s classic Northeast: rocks, roots, and occasional mud—especially after rain. The grade is steady rather than brutally steep thanks to those old graded switchbacks. Expect a mostly shaded hike with chipmunks for company, then big views at the end—on clear days you can spot Lake George, the “million dollar mile,” and even amusement rides at The Great Escape in the distance.
Total distance is about 3.0 miles round-trip (out-and-back). Most hikers take roughly 2 hours depending on pace and photo stops. The footing is the challenge here, not the navigation—just follow the blue blazes.
Best time to hike
Late spring through fall is the sweet spot. Summer and early fall evenings make great sunset outings (the distant lights pop nicely), but bring a headlamp if there’s any chance you’ll be descending at dusk. Spring and early summer can be buggy—pack repellent. The trail is used year-round, but winter or icy conditions add real risk given the rocks and grade.
Tips and tricks
- Footwear matters: sturdy hiking shoes or boots for rocky, rooty, sometimes muddy sections.
- Stay on the marked route and respect private property near the summit.
- After rain, slow down on the slick rock and mud.
- Dogs are commonly reported on this trail; keep them leashed and pack out waste.
Getting there
The route is accessed from the Lake George RV Park area. Use the Warren County Bike Trail toward Lake George and look for blue trail markers on the right (the RV Park notes this is about 1/4–1/2 mile from Route 149). The park’s map and Guest Services can point you to exact locations.
Bottom line
Underrated compared to the area’s headliners, this is a satisfying, moderate climb with real views for the effort—and usually fewer people than the big-name Lake George hikes.
Wildlife on this trail
Near French Mountain Hiking Trail
All places →All trails →
Lake George Steamboat CompanyHistoric steamboat cruises with Adirondack views and meal optionsRestroom · Parking
Black MountainHighest Lake George summit with big views and a classic loopTrailhead · Parking
Buck Mountain SummitOpen-rock summit with sweeping Lake George panoramasScenic Viewpoint
Cat Mountain SummitWide-open Lake George panorama atop a broad rock summitScenic Viewpoint
Cat Mountain TrailBig Lake George views via mellow road to rugged summit finishModerate · 6 mi · 4 hrBuck Mountain East TrailA steady Adirondack climb to bald-rock views over Lake George.Challenging · 6.6 mi · 4 hr
Buck Mountain South TrailSteady climb to Lake George’s classic open-rock panoramaModerate · 6.6 mi · 4.5 hr
Tongue Mountain Range: French Point and First Peak LoopBig Lake George views, rocky ridge walking, and a shoreline finishChallenging · 11.5 mi · 7 hr
