An easy Adirondack hike, this old road leads to this popular lake with beautiful blue-green water and a picturesque shoreline. Past the lake, incredible, house-sized boulders provide some of the best bouldering in the Adirondacks.

How to get there

From Piseco, head South on Rt. 8 through Higgins Bay. Then, turn left to go South on Rt. 10 for approximately 17.5 miles. Bare right onto NY-29A, and the trailhead parking areas will be on either side of the road.

By the numbers

The trail to the first access of the lake is roughly one mile, though it continues further down to other waterfront access points. For climbing access, keep right across the stone bridge and continue up the path into the boulders.

Hiking

The hike is a fairly steady climb from the trailhead but never rises very steeply. Nine Corner Lake itself is a popular swimming destination, making it a popular short hike for many families looking to cool off on a warm summer day or just enjoy a forest stroll to a scenic lake.

Rock climbing

One of the most popular bouldering areas in the Adirondacks, the blocks here are large, well shaded, and unique. Several options are available for orienting yourself at the area, including a guidebook titled Adirondack Park Bouldering and a Nine Corner Lake Bouldering app.