Adirondack Forest Traverse Expedition
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Autumn
LOCATION
Adirondack Park, NY
DATE
Oct 4, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Adirondack Traverse Adventure
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 4 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~42 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: forest
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 3500 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Upper Works Trailhead, NY to Heart Lake Trailhead, NY
- GPS coordinates: 44.0935, -74.1224 (start) and 44.1873, -73.9632 (end)
- Permits: Obtain from Adirondack Loj Information Center
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DAY 1: Upper Works Trailhead to Flowed Lands
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +800 ft
- Terrain description: Dense forest trails with occasional river crossings
- Notable features or side quests: Views of Mt. Colden and Henderson Lake
- Key water sources: Opalescent River
- Campsite location: Flowed Lands Campground
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for slippery rocks near water
- Trail tip: Secure footing when crossing rivers
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DAY 2: Flowed Lands to Lake Colden
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1100 ft
- Terrain description: Steep, rocky paths with forest canopy
- Notable features or side quests: Summit Mt. Colden
- Key water sources: Lakes and streams in the vicinity
- Campsite location: Lake Colden Campsite
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear canisters required for food
- Trail tip: Start early to catch the sunrise summit
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DAY 3: Lake Colden to Avalanche Pass
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +900 ft
- Terrain description: Rugged pass with boulder fields
- Notable features or side quests: Breathtaking Avalanche Lake
- Key water sources: Streams along the pass
- Campsite location: Designated areas at Lake Colden
- Wildlife or safety notes: Keep noise levels down to avoid attracting wildlife
- Trail tip: Trek poles helpful for stability on rocky terrain
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DAY 4: Avalanche Pass to Heart Lake Trailhead
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +700 ft
- Terrain description: Steep descents and dense vegetation
- Notable features or side quests: Views of Mt. Marcy
- Key water sources: Streams closer to Heart Lake
- Campsite location: No camping; finish at Heart Lake
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be cautious of loose gravel on trails
- Trail tip: Plan your pace to reach Heart Lake by late afternoon
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Flowed Lands (1150 ft), Lake Colden (2760 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Fires prohibited above 4000 ft
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear canisters exclusively
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Mt. Colden summit
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate with potential for crowds
- Nearest water source: Opalescent River, Lake Colden
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 40-60°F in October
- Sun exposure: Limited due to forest cover
- Acclimatization tips: Hydrate well, adjust pace for elevation
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Use lightweight layers for flexibility; invest in a high-quality headlamp for early starts and late finishes.
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Ice Meadows at Avalanche Lake
- Photo-worthy moments: Summit of Mt. Colden at sunrise
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Adirondack Loj Visitor Center snacks
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: 6 AM rise, sleep by 9 PM
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 30-40 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
