Combine paddling and hiking for this fun adventure!
Key takeaways
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 600 feet
Hiking and paddling
This hike requires a paddle to reach the trailhead in Norman's Cove, a short 1.0 mile from the Indian Lake Marina off Lakeshore drive in Sabael. There is a charge for the use of the marina. You may also paddle 7.5 miles from the DEC Indian Lake Campground boat ramp to reach the trailhead.
As you enter Norman's Cove, look for the trailhead to the left of the cove, where a DEC trailhead sign is prominently displayed next to a large rock. The sheltered bay has a great picnic area, where you can leave your boat and start your hike. Follow the red markers to the summit. It is an easier ascent, with a short steep section at the end, to spectacular views of the area from open ledges on the summit.
Baldface Mountain in the winter
This hike in the winter would require a snowshoe over frozen Indian Lake. This can be extremely dangerous, and if you decide to do this, you should do the proper research into the thickness of the ice, recent temepratures, and proper cold-weather gear. Be prepared for all winter conditions.
Experience more trails in Hamilton County
Does Baldface Mountain sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help you find the right hike in the big outdoors.
How to get there
The Indian Lake Marina is approximately 4.5 miles south of Indian Lake, where you make a left onto Lake Shore Drive. The marina is on the left part way down the road. This is the shortest canoe paddle to the trailhead. The Indian Lake Islands DEC campground is 12 miles south on Route 30 from Indian Lake, on the left hand side of Rte 30, or 12 miles north of Speculator on the right side of Route 30.