Red Trail to The Pinnacle

Take the marked Red Trail at the split near the parking area; the Blue Trail heads to Bradley’s Lookout, a different destination. The Red route crosses a seasonal stream on a wooden bridge, then works up the slope in switchbacks. It straightens before turning toward the longer rocky pitch. Near the top, the grade eases before a short trail leads to the overlook. That change from an easy opening to a steady climb and a rougher upper section is why the distance alone doesn’t tell the whole story.

The lot-to-overlook walk is 1.1 miles each way. The 2.2-mile figure counts the return to the same parking area; allow about an hour to reach the view. Give yourself more time if you like to stop often or linger at the top.

The trail ends at an expansive view over Lake George. This is the main reason to choose the Red Trail, and it feels earned after the climb. The edge has a steep drop, so stay well back while taking in the panorama. Turn around at the view and retrace the Red Trail to the parking area.

The overall climb is moderate, but its upper half-mile has a noticeably steeper, rocky ascent. You’ll feel the grade most on the way up, while the same rocks make the descent worth taking slowly. The preserve notes that early spring can leave muddy, slick sections. Dogs are allowed on leash, and hikers are asked to stay on marked trails.

The Blue Trail from the same lot goes to Bradley’s Lookout instead. It is a separate, shorter and easier route with its own Lake George view, not a shortcut to The Pinnacle. Choose it if you want less climbing; stay on the Red Trail if The Pinnacle itself is the goal.

The Town of Bolton owns the preserve and the Lake George Land Conservancy manages it. The original 73-acre Pinnacle parcel was protected in 2015 after five years of negotiations and support from nearly 300 people, businesses and organizations. In 2021, the town and conservancy protected another 62 connected acres at Bradley’s Lookout, expanding the preserve and adding the Blue Trail. These are marked public paths through a landscape protected in part for Lake George’s water quality.

Use the designated main lot on Edgecomb Pond Road, about 0.3 mile north of Bolton Community Center. If it is full, use Bolton Conservation Park at 56 Edgecomb Pond Road. Roadside parking is not permitted. The preserve is free and open year-round from dawn to dusk; dogs must remain leashed. There is no need to add the Blue Trail’s distance to this hike unless you choose to visit Bradley’s Lookout as a separate outing.