Ampersand Mountain Hike

On Monday, May 28th, Mike, Michael and I met up at the Ampersand Mountain Trailhead just west of Saranac Lake.  It was just about 9AM and the weather was slightly overcast and warm.  We got ready and hit the trail.  The trail for the mountain started across the street from the rather small parking area on Rt. 3. 

The initial portion of the trail (about a mile) was relatively flat.  Thereafter the grade became progressively steeper and rockier in sections.  It wasn't until near one of its sub-peaks that there was finally limited views down on Middle Saranac Lake.  In a short time later, we arrived at the open summit.  Here there was sweeping views over the Saranac Lakes to the west and north, as well as the High Peaks and Ampersand Pond to the south and east.  By the time we summited the peak at just past 11AM the thin cloud cover was starting to give way to open blue skies.  

While we ascended at a modest pace...taking frequent breaks and enjoying the conversations, we took a more extended break up on top.  On the top of Ampersand Mt. there are remnants of an old fire tower that once stood (footings and cable supports are still visible), as well as dedicatory plaque to Walter Channing Rice, who is described as the "Hermit of Ampersand" who kept vigil from this peak.  Doing a little research afterwards, he was actually a fire tower observer from 1915 to 1923.  He apparently loved the solitude of his post.

After about a hour snacking, talking and taking in the views, we headed back via the same trail as we ascended (there was no other choice anyway...it's an out-and-back).  We made good time on the way back and we arrived again at the trailhead parking lot at 1:30PM.

The two Michaels wanted to hit the road, since they had a distance to travel.  After they packed it in and hit the road, I changed into my swim suit and made the short distance (0.6 mile) down the trail to Middle Saranac Lake.  This trail leaves from the same parking area.  The trail was very easy going and almost entirely flat.  I got out to the shore of the lake by 2PM and took a quick dip to cool down before packing it in myself for the day (the water was pretty warm for this early in the season).

This modest hike was a perfect end to an amazing weekend in the Adirondacks.  The weather couldn't have been better and I'm so grateful for Mike and Michael joining me on this particular outing, but also to them and the other guys (Jim and Jeffrey) who traveled to the area for the kayak trip the day before.  It truely made it a very special weekend and a great kick-off to the official summer season.

Join me for this 5.4 mile hike on Ampersand Mountain (3352').  It lies just west of the High Peaks in the Adirondacks and is a popular day hike.  It is named for the nearby Ampersand Creek, which resembles an ampersand.

We will utilize the Ampersand Mountain Trail (#9/#102).  This is an out-and-back hike, which leads to the bare open summit.  From here there are extensive views in all directions, particularly to the High Peaks in the east and down onto the Saranac Lakes to the west.  There is approximately 1800 feet in elevation gain.

Upon our return to the trailhead, there is an optional 1.2 mile hike to the shore of Middle Saranac Lake using the Saranac Lake Trail (#8).  Here we will have the opportunity to swim or just relax for a while.

Rain or harsh weather will postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate.

What to Bring:  Typical early spring hiking gear should be appropriate:  shorts or convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks, optional bathing suit and a windbreaker/raingear (just in case).  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water.  Optionally, pack bug repellent and sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a day hike. 

Afterwards:  We should be completed with the hike by 3PM.  If there is sufficient interest, we'll cap the day off with a light dinner/drinks in Tupper Lake or Saranac Lake (depending on the direction, by which participants will want to go home).