Heart Lake Loop Trail

The Heart Lake Loop Trail at Adirondack Park near North Elba, New York is an easy 1.1-mile loop trail that encompasses Heart Lake and features views of some of the mountains within the High Peaks Wilderness like Wright Peak and Algonquin Peak. During the winter, this lake is usually frozen over, allowing hikers to snowshoe across - giving views of Mount Jo as well.

This GPS track begins at the ADK Loj and heads north along the purple blazes, passing the Mount Jo Trail, and Roger's Lookout as it meanders its way around the lake. From the start of the trail, hikers get a nice view from the Heart Lake beach of Nye Mountain and Street Mountain directly across the lake. This trail should be considered easy, but it does get a bit rocky in some areas. Eventually the trail will pass the Indian Pass Trail before circling Heart Lake to the south to reach the Old Marcy Dam Trail in the southeast corner. Last, the trail heads north to loop back to the ADK Loj where this trail ends.

Parking
Hikers will find parking at the coordinates provided at the main lots for the High Peaks Wilderness at the end of Adirondack Loj Road near North Elba, NY. The parking lots are large enough to fit many dozens of vehicles. There is a day-use and overnight parking fee for ~7/half-day, ~$15/full-day for non-members. Please check with the ADK for more information.

Pets
Dogs are allowed if leashed and their waste must be carried out by the hiker.

Camping
There are paid-for lean-to's located along Heart Lake, just off of this trail, that backpackers and campers can rent out from the ADK with reservations. Please check out the ADK website for more information.