Fangorn Forest Trail
The Fangorn Forest Trail at Adirondack Park in North Elba, New York within the High Peaks Wilderness is an easy 0.4-mile one-way trail that features a peaceful forest setting and a name with a nod to Lord of the Rings.Hike Description
This hike follow an ADK Winter Trail (blue blazes); however, the trail is likely open to the public during other months as well, but suited for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing during the Winter months.
This hike begins at the western trailhead, located along the Old Marcy Dam Trail which leads south to Wright Peak, Algonquin Peak, Boundary Peak, and Iroquois Peak or north to the Heart Lake Loop Trail. The Fangorn Forest trail, however, is an undulating easy hike that leads east to connect to the Van Hoevenberg Trail, which leads to Marcy Dam. There's not a whole lot to see along this trail aside from a small footbridge that crosses MacIntyre Brook, which sits at the lowest point along the hike. On each end of the trail is a ~100-foot uphill walk at a mostly-easy grade.
Parking & Fees
Hikers will find several massive parking lots at the coordinates provided. There is a fee to park, as of March 2023: ADK-Members: $7/day. Non-members: $15/day. The parking lots are large enough to fit many dozens of vehicles; however, during the Summer months this lot fills up quickly, so show up early to claim a spot.
Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and their waste must be carried out by the hiker.
Name from Lord of the Rings
This trail is named after the Fangorn Forest from Lord of the Rings (LOTR). In the novel, the Fangorn Forest was located on the southeastern base of the Misty Mountains, named after Fangorn (Treebeard). The Fangorn Forest was known to be the last habitat of the Ents and Huorns. For folks looking for another "Lord of the Rings-esk" trail in the Northeast US, this trail is worth a visit simply to hike through the Fangorn Forest. Maybe consider adding Algonquin, Boundary, and Iroquois Peaks to your day to make for an epic hike, like I did.
