This mountain is best known as the hub of Lake Placid's Olympic sites, including the skeleton and bobsled track, and over 50km of cross country ski trails.

But on the other side of the mountain, you can access the summit of Mount Van Hoevenberg via a four-mile round trip hike with unobstructed views of the surrounding High Peaks

**There are two trails that lead to the summit of Mt Van Hoevenberg. **Both trails meet at the summit and are rated as moderate.

Since both trails meet at the summit, the Mount Van Hoevenberg hike can be done as loop. However, I suggest just choosing one trail and following it out and back. If you do choose to complete the loop, you need to have two cars, as its about a 7 mile drive between both trailheads.

1. 2. The Mt. Van Hoevenberg East Trail begins on Bob Run Rd at the Olympic Sports Complex in Lake Placid.

This trail is much newer, and it's sustainable design and series of switchbacks make it the best trail option for groups, families, and anyone with sensitive knees.

The road to the East Trail is open between the hours of 9am-4pm.

1. **The Mt. Van Hoevenberg West Trail ** is reached via the South Meadow Trailhead, located on South Meadows Rd near Lake Placid. This trail is more rugged and 0.4 miles longer than the East Trail.

The hike up Mt Van Hoevenberg via the West Trail is 2.2 miles one way. I suggest budgeting around 3 hours for this hike if you want to enjoy the views for awhile, but it only takes around 1 hour to reach the summit if you’re hiking at a moderate pace.

By default, Google Maps will direct you to the East Trail. To get to the West trailhead, follow Adirondack Loj Road for approximately 4 miles and then turn left at the sign for South Meadow. Continue on South Meadows Road for about 0.3 miles until you see the sign to Mt Van Hoevenberg on the left. Park off to the side of the road.

South Meadows Road is closed in the winter and parking is limited to the few spots at the start of the road.

Here's a full guide to hiking the West Trail.