Overview
Vanderwhacker Mountain is a moderate climb in the Adirondacks of upstate New York. Reaching an elevation of 3,389 feet, views are quite good from the summit. After a fairly stiff hike of about 5.7 miles, you will be rewarded with great views of the High Peaks (including Algonquin, Colden, Marcy, and Gothics among others). However, this view is limited from the summit itself; as views in three directions are obscurred by trees. But if you're brave enough to venture to the top of the firetower, you will have panoramic views of the majestic Adirondack Mountains.The trail itself is a very nice trail, as long as you go during the "dry season" (may be hard to tell when that is in the Adirondacks)because it is mostly on a soil trail. Following Vanderwhacker Brook for most of the hike, the trail can become very muddy and require careful foot placement. At first the trail is a flat path (clearly defined) leading to a stream crossing, a swamp, and finally the old ranger cabin. At this point, the trail becomes significantly steeper and continues as such for most of the remainder of the hike; leveling out once you get close to the summit.
Overall, a very nice hike. But the drive in can be worse than the hike! The trailhead is 2.6 miles down a dirt road, and a rough one at that. So use caution when driving back in. You will hit a bridge at about 1.5 miles and then cross some old railroad tracks; the trailhead is about 1 mile further with a SMALL parking lot.
