Adirondack High Peaks FAQ & General Information
Get your questions answered on hiking, camping, and recreating in the Adirondack High Peaks. This FAQ covers parking, permits, shuttle access, and trail rules to help you plan your trip.
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General Info About the 46 High Peaks
The 46 High Peaks were originally grouped together based on their elevations. In 1927, Russell M. W. Carson's book "Peaks and People of the Adirondacks" described the mountain elevations. His research determined that the 46 High Peaks were the tallest mountains in the Adirondacks, and all of them had an elevation of at least 4,000 feet.
Later geological surveys revealed that not all of the 46 High Peaks were actually 4,000 feet or above in elevation, and one that did meet the "requirement" was excluded. Nevertheless, the original 46 are still grouped together and recognized as the ones to overcome. If you climb them all, you can become an official Adirondack 46er!
Also, although they are referred to as high peaks, all 46 aren't the highest points in New York State. The Catskills have 35 High Peaks that are above 3,500 feet in elevation. A few of the Catskills' High Peaks are greater in elevation than some of the 46 Adirondacks' High Peaks.
The 46 High Peaks are all located in the Adirondack Forest Preserve, meaning they are on state-owned lands open for recreation, such as hiking and backcountry camping.
You can find the mountains in and around the High Peaks Wilderness Area in the northeastern region of the Adirondack Park. The High Peaks Wilderness is split between Western and Eastern zones.
Some rules change based on the Zone you are in, so check our FAQ for more helpful information and to learn about some of the important differences.
Route 73 Hiker Shuttle
The seasonal Route 73 hiker shuttle runs from Marcy Field to the Garden parking lot in the Town of Keene, NY, from Saturday, July 4 through Sunday, October 11, 2026.
The shuttle operates Saturdays and Sundays, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tickets cost $10 per person round trip ($13 for Canadian visitors). Babies, toddlers, and pets ride free, though pets must stay under their owner's control. Payment can be made by cash or check; credit cards are not accepted.
When the Garden parking lot is full, visitors can park at Marcy Field and use the shuttle to reach the trailhead.
Common Questions About the Adirondack High Peaks
Do you have to pay to park/hike in the High Peaks Wilderness Area?
Only in the Adirondack Mountain Reserve, which is on private land.
How do I know if I'm in the High Peaks Wilderness Area?
There will be brown and yellow signs to let you know when you've entered the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) public lands in the High Peaks Wilderness. You'll also find trail register boxes near major access points, which you should sign in and out of.
Can I camp in the High Peaks Wilderness Area?
Yes, however, the overnight group size is limited to a maximum of eight people.
Where should I camp in the High Peaks Wilderness Area?
Backcountry camping is allowed on most Forest Preserve lands in the High Peaks Area. The exceptions are Unique Areas, Wildlife Management Areas, Historical Sites, and Nature Preserves. Also, camping is prohibited if you are within 150 feet of a road, trail, spring, stream, pond, or body of water.
Areas with a yellow DEC "Camp Here" tree marker are designated primitive campsites. Campers aren't required to stay at these designated sites, but the DEC marked them because they are generally on flat and hard land, which minimizes erosion.
What if I want to go camping with a large group of people?
The maximum group size for overnight camping in the High Peaks Wilderness Area is eight people.
Am I able to make a campfire at my campsite?
In the Eastern High Peaks Zone, no campfires are allowed. In the Western High Peaks Zone, campfires are only allowed at designated sites or areas that are at least 150 feet away from a road, trail, or water source.
Can I bring my own firewood to a campsite or campground?
No. In order to prevent the spread of invasive species, the DEC requires that all campers must get their firewood from the campground or a local vendor.
Do I need a bear-resistant canister?
In all parts of the High Peaks Wilderness, campers must use bear-resistant canisters between April 1st and November 30th. Store all your food, toiletries, garbage, bug repellent, etc., in them. The canisters are meant to prevent bears from smelling scented items.
How large of a group can go hiking together?
Groups on a day trip in the High Peaks Wilderness Area are limited to a maximum of 15 people.
What are the rules for guided tours?
Guided tours in the High Peaks Wilderness Area require a licensed guide. You don't need to be a resident of New York State to be a licensed guide, but a license can only be obtained by taking an exam run by the DEC's forest rangers. All licensed guides must be at least 18 years of age.
Can affiliated groups participate in recreational activities together, including hiking and camping?
Groups must adhere to the group size limits for camping and hiking. Furthermore, affiliated groups must stay at least one mile away from each other.
Can I camp above 4,000 feet in the High Peaks Wilderness?
Camping above 4,000 feet is prohibited at all times and is only allowed at that elevation in an emergency.
Where am I allowed to camp above 3,500 feet?
Camping above 3,500 feet is only permitted at designated sites.
Can I have a campfire above 4,000 feet?
Emergency fires are allowed at elevations above 4,000 feet.
Do I need to keep my dog leashed?
Pets must be kept under control, and dogs must be leashed in the Eastern High Peaks.
Can I use soap to wash dishes or myself near a water source?
Soap is not permitted for washing or cleaning within 150 feet of water.
How do I dispose of human waste on the trail?
Human waste should be disposed of at least 150 feet from a trail or source of water.
Can I reserve a lean-to in advance?
Lean-tos are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and space must be shared with other campers.
A complete list of the DEC's State Land Camping and Hiking Rules are available online.
See a list of the 46 Adirondack High Peaks >>
Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR)
The Adirondack Mountain Reserve (AMR) is a popular access point for several High Peaks trailheads, but it comes with its own rules and reservation system. The questions below cover what to know before you go.
Do I need a reservation to access trailheads through the AMR?
Advance reservations for parking, daily access, and overnight access to trailheads accessed through the AMR are required from May 1 through October 31.
How far in advance can I make an AMR reservation?
Visitors can make reservations up to two weeks in advance on a 24-hour rolling basis.
How many reservations does the AMR allow per day?
The property takes 70 reservations a day, and cancellations are common, so check the reservation system frequently for availability.
Can I camp, bring dogs, or fly drones on the AMR?
No. Rules specific to the AMR include no camping, no dogs, no drones, and no off-trail travel.
What is the Adirondack Mountain Reserve?
The AMR consists of private lands around the Upper and Lower Ausable Lakes and the upper reaches of the East Branch Ausable River, situated between two sections of the High Peaks Wilderness. The public is prohibited from entering the clubhouse, camps, buildings, and waters outside the designated marked roads and trails.
Which trailheads require an AMR reservation?
Reservations are required to access the Noonmark and Round Mountain trailheads on the AMR property.
Make Sure Your Properly Prepared
Whether you are hiking the peaks in one day or camping overnight, it's essential that you have the proper gear.
Water-resistant items, ample hydration methods, emergency tents, and power banks are all items that could make your expedition through the peaks a fail-proof success.
Check out our list of hiking gear to pack for your next adventure to ensure you have everything you need! And make sure you're dressed properly with help from our list of recommended Adirondack hiking apparel.
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