Good Luck Mountain is a challenging hike in the southern Adirondacks that leads to great views. This area also has a climbing crag called the Good Luck Cliffs.
Key takeaways
- Distance: 3.5 miles, round trip
- Elevation gain: 925 feet
- Elevation: 2,320 feet
- Hike includes trail junctions and unmarked trail (minimal)
Hiking to Good Luck Mountain
From the road (Dexter Lake trailhead), the trail starts climbing moderately along a snowmobile trail, and after a half mile it veers left onto a foot trail that passes close to Good Luck Lake, which can be seen through the trees. There's a path that leads to a campsite with a nice view down the lake.
At 1.3 miles the trail swings right and starts a steep climb along the base of the cliffs and near the boulder field. The massive boulder field the trail goes near is a fun place for exploring with care. Eventually you'll reach the top of the cliffs, where there is an outstanding view southwest over Spectacle Pond and Ferris Lake Wild Forest. The true summit of Good Luck Mountain has no views, but there is a well-defined herd path leading you there if you want to explore the additional 0.1 mile. A cairn marks the summit.
Good Luck Mountain in the winter
The parking area is accessible in the winter, and this trail gets regular traffic. Even so, be prepared for the trail to be unbroken by bringing snowshoes, as well as microspikes for the steep sections. This trail is not recommended for cross-country skiing.
Experience more trails
Does Good Luck Mountain sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help you find the right hike in the big outdoors.
How to get there
From the intersection of Route 8 and Route 10 in Piseco, follow Route 10 toward Pine Lake. Continue for a bit under 12 miles to the trailhead on the right; parking is on the left.
