Prospect Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the Lake George Region at roughly three miles round trip. The trailhead is conveniently located in Lake George Village, and the summit features outstanding views of the lake and surrounding area.
The Prospect Mountain trail begins on Smith Street in Lake George Village. From Exit 22 of I-87, turn right onto U.S. 9/Canada Street, then right onto Montcalm Street (across from Shepard Park).
Continue on Montcalm, then turn right onto Cooper Street and travel one block until you reach West Street. Turn left onto West Street, go up one block, and turn left onto Smith Street. On Smith Street, you’ll see a sign indicating the beginning of the trail. We should start up at 6:30pm. There is a small public parking area off the side of the road by the trailhead.
Upon reaching the summit (2,030 feet), we will have 100-mile views of Lake George and the Adirondacks. On the top we will see remnants of the Prospect Mountain Cable Incline Railway, which was at one time the longest cable railroad in the world. It was built in 1895 to transport wealthy visitors to the Prospect Mountain House, a hotel previously only accessible by horse-drawn carriage. The hotel eventually burned down, but its fireplace is still visible today atop the mountain.
We should have approximately 45 minutes to eat and take in the views and then start to walk down the road at 8:30 sharp. This should get us to the rest area around 9:20 for the start of the fireworks at 9:30. The fireworks will last approximately 20-30 minutes. From there we have approximately a half mile walk back to the trailhead.
Don’t forget our headlamps, snacks, food and water!