Brant Lake Challenge: Hike 4 Trails and Earn a Certificate/Patch
The Brant Lake Challenge is a hiking initiative launched by the Warren County Planning Department in collaboration with local business owners and community leaders. Created to highlight the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities surrounding Brant Lake, the challenge encourages hikers to explore four distinct trails in the region and enjoy a memorable Adirondack experience.
What Is the Brant Lake Challenge?
Launched on National Trails Day, June 7, 2025, the Brant Lake Challenge is open to hikers of all skill levels and can be completed at your own pace.
To participate, hikers must complete four specific trails, recording the date each one is hiked. After finishing all four, you can submit a completion form and earn an official certificate to mark your achievement.
Want a challenge patch as well? Visit The Hub with your certificate and $5 to pick one up.
How to Complete the Challenge
You can hike the trails in any order and take as much time as you need—there’s no time limit. Simply keep track of the date you hike each trail. Once all four are completed, fill out the official form and mail it in to receive your certificate.
For help with the form, contact Amanda Beck at becka@warrencountyny.gov or call 518-761-6431.
If you're looking to learn more about challenge patches, reach out to The Hub in Brant Lake at 27 Market Street, call 518-494-4822, or email brantlakechallenge@gmail.com.
The Four Brant Lake Challenge Hikes
Bartonville Mountain (1.5 miles roundtrip)
- Elevation: 1,388 feet
- Estimated Time: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead Parking: The Hub parking lot, Market Street, Brant Lake
This short, family-friendly trail offers a taste of the Adirondacks with wooded terrain and a scenic overlook near the summit. While the summit itself is forested, a nearby vista provides a great view of Brant Lake. The trail is open to the public but crosses private property, so please stay on the marked path.
Fox Hill (1.6 miles roundtrip)
- Elevation: 1,505 feet
- Estimated Time: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trailhead Parking: Horicon Municipal Center, Route 8
This trail begins at the back of Horicon Municipal Park and offers a steady climb to multiple overlooks. Expect views of Moxham Mountain, Mill Pond, and even Gore Mountain. It's a short, accessible hike with rewarding scenery.
Swede Mountain (1.8 miles roundtrip)
- Elevation: 1,893 feet
- Estimated Time: 1–2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Trailhead Parking: Turnout on Route 8
Home to one of Warren County’s restored fire towers, Swede Mountain offers big views for a relatively short hike. After an initial stream crossing and steep embankment, the trail becomes a gentle climb to the summit. The 47-foot tower offers panoramic views of surrounding peaks and Brant Lake. Note: The trail and tower are closed from September through December during hunting season.
Pharaoh Mountain (12.5 miles roundtrip)
- Elevation: 2,556 feet
- Estimated Time: 6–7 hours
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Trailhead Parking: South Pharaoh Lake parking lot on Pharaoh Road
For experienced hikers, Pharaoh Mountain is a full-day adventure through the Forest Preserve in the Pharaoh Mountain Wilderness Area. The trail includes forest roads, wetlands, and lakeside paths before a more strenuous climb to the summit. Campsites and lean-tos are available along the route. Expect a challenging but rewarding hike with stunning views from the top.
Hiking Tips for the Brant Lake Challenge
To make the most of your experience on the trail, keep these tips in mind:
- Dress in layers: Weather in the Adirondacks can change quickly, so bring a light jacket or rain shell even in summer.
- Wear proper footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots or trail shoes are ideal for uneven terrain.
- Bring a map or download it in advance: Cell service may be spotty, so don’t rely on GPS alone.
- Stay hydrated: Carry enough water for each hike, especially on longer trails like Pharaoh Mountain.
- Leave no trace: Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, and respect wildlife and plant life.
- Know your limits: Choose hikes that match your comfort and experience level, and don’t push beyond your endurance.
- Check seasonal closures: Swede Mountain’s trail and fire tower are closed during hunting season (September–December).
Start Your Brant Lake Challenge Adventure
The Brant Lake Challenge is a great way to explore a mix of easy and challenging trails, all showcasing the natural beauty of the southern Adirondacks. Whether you're new to hiking or a seasoned trail-goer, these four routes offer something for everyone.
Please note: This guide is for informational purposes only. We are not the organizers of the Brant Lake Challenge. For official details and forms, see the challenge website: https://brant-lake-challenge-warrencountyny.hub.arcgis.com/
<< Back to Adirondack Hiking Challenges
