A small mountain with big views, Watch Hill follows a forest road to the base of the hike. Follow the foot trail up to some short sections of steep rock lips, and up to the ridge line. From the top, take in the views out onto Snowy Mountain and Indian Lake.
Key takeaways
- Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 475 feet
- Hike includes trail junctions
Hiking Watch Hill
From the trailhead you will hike back along the short section of newer trail to an old forest road and follow this for a bit to the foot trail that will come in on the right. The trail is well marked so don't worry about the few intersections along the way. There is a trail marked as a horse trail which is a much easier approach to the summit, but it is a bit longer, and a bit wet and muddy. The foot trail is much more fun as it goes up over some steeper rock lips and eventually to the ridgeline. There are outstanding views of Snowy Mountain and Indian Lake.
There is a spur trail that leads down to the shore of Indian Lake and a nice beach if you wish to add a bit of distance to your travels (1 mile and 460 feet of elevation gain, round trip added).
Watch Hill in the winter
In the winter, the Watch Hill trailhead may or may not be plowed. You could also utilize the Snowy Mountain trailhead to get here. In the winter, Watch Hill is a good snowshoe, and bring microspikes for some of the steeper sections that might be icy. Be prepared for any Adirondack winter outdoor adventure.
There is also a blue-marked crosscountry ski trail loop that is around 2.5 miles round trip.
Experience more trails in Hamilton County
Does Watch Hill sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With hundreds of miles of trails, we can help find the right hike for you in the big outdoors.
How to get there
From the intersection of Route 28 and Route 30 in Indian Lake follow Route 30 toward Speculator. Continue for just over 8 miles to the trailhead on the left, 1 mile past the trailhead for Snowy Mountain.
