Adirondack 46 High Peaks Ranked by Difficulty Level

These are good early picks: shorter hikes, more maintained trails, lower exposure, less remote.

Peak	Elevation	Why it’s Beginner-Friendly
Giant Mountain (≈ 4,627 ft)	4627 ft	Well-trailed, popular route, less remote.
Whiteface Mountain	4,867 ft	Even though high, good trails, more accessible, often less demanding in terrain.
Wright Peak	4,580 ft	More manageable distance/elevation in many route options.

These will test endurance, possibly include more elevation gain, longer distances, some steeper or rockier sections.

Peak	Elevation	Challenges to Expect
Algonquin Peak	5,114 ft	More vertical gain; altitude effects, longer ascent.
Iroquois Peak	4,840 ft	Steeper trail, rocky terrain.
Colden	4,714 ft	Several route options; some require scrambling, exposed ridges.

Expect long days, remote terrain, possible navigational issues, exposure to weather, fewer amenities.

Peak	Elevation	What Makes It Tough
Mount Haystack	4,960 ft	Very remote, long distance, steep approaches.
Skylight	4,926 ft	Long hikes, often combined with other peaks; exposure.
Gray Peak	4,840 ft	Trailless or minimal trails on some approaches, rugged terrain.

These are for experienced backpackers, strong navigators, prepared for weather, possibly off-trail work, long multi-peak days, etc.

Peak	Elevation	Why It’s Among the Hardest
Redfield	4,606 ft	Very long approaches, lots of exposure, rugged terrain.
Allen	4,340 ft	Remoteness, long trail or bushwhacks; many note that Allen demands more “effort” even though elevation is lower.
Santanoni Peak / Panther etc. in Santanoni Range	≈ 4,600-4,400 ft	Minimal trail options, wetlands, remote terrain, sometimes requires bushwhack.

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Backpacking Basics 101