Baker Mountain is a small peak that towers over the town of Saranac Lake New York in the Adirondack High Peaks Region. At 2457’ elevation it is clearly tiny compared to the lofty high peaks that distinguish the area among others in the state. Even though Baker may be short in stature, it is not short of vistas. The hiker who climbs to the summit will be greeted with fine views from a series of ledges along the way. Don’t be fooled the climb to the summit is stiff. Overlooks near the summit provide a more than 180-degree view to the east, south, and west. It is a nice hike for families and beginners. It is one of the Saranac 6ers.
The Dirt
| Hiking Distance: | 1.8-miles round trip | Route Type: | Out-and-back |
| Total climb: | 886′ | Hike type: | Trail |
| How hard? | Moderate | Trailhead: | Mt Baker Trailhead |
Geeky Stuff
| Elevation: | 2457 feet, 749 meters |
| Lat/Lon: | 44° 20′ 6” N, 74° 6′ 13” W |
| Seasons: | Spring, Summer, Fall. Winter |
| Activities: | Hiking, snowshoeing |
| Nearest higher neighbor: | Little Haystack (2.72-miles, ENE) |
| Line parent: | McKenzie Mountain (3.5-miles, E) |
| Key Col: | 1737′ (between Little McKenzie and Baker) |
| Prominence: | 720′ |
| Range: | Adirondacks > Adirondack High Peaks > West Lake Placid Area |
| Land Unit: | Mckenzie Mountain SWA |
| Summit forest: | Coniferous |
| Maps and Guide: | High Peaks Adirondack Trail Map High Peaks Trails (14th Edition) High Peaks Trails Guide and Map Pack (14th Edition) |
Weather
Weather for Baker Mountain
Map of Baker Mountain
Click the map or here for an interactive version of the map. Also, the NYSDEC Baker Mountain Trail Map (PDF) is available to view and download.
Contacts and Info
| McKenzie Mountain Wilderness | |
| Contact Information: | DEC Region 5 Ray Brook Office: 518-897-1200 (M-F, 8:30 AM to 4:45 PM) Backcountry Emergencies: 518-891-0235 (24/7) or dial 911 Email: info.r5@dec.ny.gov |
| Location: | Towns of North Elba and St. Armand, Essex County |
| Map: | Map of the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness |
| Amenities: | Gas, lodging, dining, food and other supplies can be found in the nearby communities of Saranac Lake, Lake Placid, Bloomingdale, and Wilmington. Campers who desire more amenities may camp at the nearby Meadowbrook Campground or Wilmington Notch Campground and take day trips into the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness. |
| Cell Service: | Never count on your cell phone for rescue. Cell service in the McKenzie Mountain Wilderness is spotty and one may have problems gaining a signal depending on location. |
