Wright peak is a stunning Adirondack 46er with 360 degree views on an exposed summit. Algonquin Peak towers above the summit of Wright peak, where it is common for hikers to combine these two hikes. With the short mileage and ample parking, this is a popular hike for many.
Height: 4,580 feet (1395.98 meters)
Distance: 7 miles (11.27 km)
Elevation Gain: 2,400 feet ( 731.52 meters)
Difficulty: Strenuous
Duration: 5-7 hours
Links to info on this page:
Trail Map | Trail Descriptions | Winter Hiking | Directions | Weather Forecast | Pictures
Trail Map
Trails
Van Hoevenberg Trail – 7 Miles Round Trip
Hiking this peak begins at the Van Hoevenberg Trail, which is the same starting location for Phelps Mountain, Algonquin Peak, Mount Marcy, and other popular hikes.
The trail begins by descending, and then remains relatively flat until a junction .9 miles in. To the left, the Van Hoevenberg trail continuous towards Mount Marcy, to the right is the path towards Algonquin, Wright and Iroquois Peak.
2.9 miles into the hike, you will reach the junction where hikers can choose to ascend Wright Peak (.4 miles from junction) or Algonquin (.9 miles from junction). At this point, the hike gets challenging due to steepness, and hikers quickly ascend above treeline.
Wright peak is frequently hiked in conjunction with Algonquin Peak, and Iroquois Peak (both Adirondack 4,000 footers).
Adding in Algonquin will add 1.8 miles to the hike.
Hiking in Winter
Wright peak is a fantastic winter hike. It is an intermediate hike, and features quite a few steep and icy sections, so it is only recommended in the winter for experienced hikers. It features exposed hiking above tree-line, so it is essential to bring the proper winter hiking equipment.
The summit often has exposed ice rock that can make it very slippery. Hikers should take extra caution near the summit due to this. We would recommend always at least carrying microspikes due to the rocky summit that often has icy areas where microspikes are needed.
Directions
The trailhead is located at the end of Adirondack Loj road next to heart lake, and has a fee. Members of the Adirondack Mountain Club receive parking discounts.
Weather Forecast
Lake Placid, NY
Today
Mostly cloudy. High near 23, with temperatures falling to around 16 in the afternoon. Northwest wind around 8 mph.
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 4. Wind chill values as low as -10. Northwest wind around 9 mph.
Thursday
A slight chance of snow showers after 2pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 26. Wind chill values as low as -8. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
Thursday Night
A chance of snow showers before 7pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 18. West wind 6 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
Friday
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 29. Southwest wind 5 to 8 mph.
Friday Night
Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22. Southwest wind around 12 mph.
Saturday
Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36. Southwest wind 10 to 20 mph.
Pictures
Wright and Algonquin Peak Trailhead
Wright and Algonquin Peak Trail Junction
Waterfall Near Wright Peak
Algonquin Peak from Wright Peak
Max DesMarais is the founder of hikingandfishing.com. He has a passion for the outdoors and making outdoor education and adventure more accessible. Max is a published author for various outdoor adventure, travel, and marketing websites. He is an experienced hiker, backpacker, fly fisherman, trail runner, and spends his free time in the outdoors. These adventures allow him to test gear, learn new skills, and experience new places so that he can educate others. Max grew up hiking all around New Hampshire and New England. He became obsessed with the New Hampshire mountains, and the NH 48, where he guided hikes and trail runs in the White Mountains. Since moving out west, Max has continued his frequent adventures in the mountains, always testing gear, learning skills, gaining experience, and building his endurance for outdoor sports. You can read more about his experience here: hikingandfishing/about