The Adirondacks are home to countless trails and picturesque destinations, as well as a full complement of hiking challenges that will earn their finishers a patch. But one of those challenges sets itself apart from the rest by spreading out and incorporating a half-dozen Adirondack businesses as well.
The ADK 6 Pack hiking challenge takes six hikes from around the Adirondacks and pairs them with a nearby craft brewery, making for an experience unlike any other inside the Blue Line.
While beer-loving hikers will obviously rejoice, there is no requirement that beer be consumed, so this challenge is still quite family-friendly.
The ADK 6 Pack challenge brings hikers to all parts of the Adirondacks, from Lake Placid to Old Forge to Lake George. The paired breweries are located nearby each mountain, and the hikes offer a nice sample of Adirondack hiking experiences.
The mountains and breweries
Scarface Mountain and Ray Brook Brewhouse
Situated between the iconic Adirondack towns of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid, Scarface Mountain is a moderate hike and also counts toward the completion of the Saranac 6er hiking challenge. When done, go pretty much across the street to the area’s newest brewery at the Ray Brook Brewhouse, with a wide selection of beers and a family-friendly menu.
Pharaoh Mountain and Paradox Brewery
One of the longer hikes of the challenge, Pharaoh Mountain clocks in at just under 10 miles round-trip. But the unique views are worth the effort, and afterwards a beer and pub games can be enjoyed at the new building of Paradox Brewery. Sidle up and down a pint of Beaver Bite IPA or take a growler to go!
Bald Mountain and Fulton Chain Brewery
Bald Mountain, one of the three peaks of the Fulton Chain Trifecta hiking challenge, is a quick and family-friendly hike that offers the chance to check out a restored fire tower at the summit. With expansive views, Bald Mountain is sure to be a favorite of everyone in your party. Après-hike, head into Old Forge for a tasty brew at the Fulton Chain Brewery and if it’s cold, get cozy on the couch near the fireplace!
Cat Mountain and Bolton Landing Brewing Company
Cat Mountain is a little over 7 miles round-trip but only climbs moderately over the course of the hike. After the hike, head into the quaint town of Bolton Landing, on the shore of historic Lake George, for a craft brew and pub food at Bolton Landing Brewing Company.
Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain and Ausable Brewing Company
Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain has a lot going for it: unforgettable name, tons of rock climbing, two hiking trails, and a restored fire tower that is more than a century old. Oh, and there’s also the amazing views at the end of a short hike! After scanning the horizon for the High Peaks and Champlain Valley, head over to the Ausable Brewing Company, which thrives in a farmer-friendly area.
Bears Den Mountain and Lake Placid Pub & Brewery or Big Slide Brewery
Bears Den Mountain is one of the shorter hikes of the 6 Pack Challenge, clocking in at 3.3 miles round-trip. But it sits off the shoulder of the state’s fifth-highest mountain, Whiteface, so the views from Bears Den prove to be more than one would expect. After the hike, head back into Lake Placid and hit up one (or both!) of two great local breweries: The Lake Placid Pub & Brewery or Big Slide Brewery and Public House. Each location has award-winning beers and fantastic food, and both are family-friendly.
For a full breakdown of the challenge, its rules, submission requirements, and merchandise, please visit ADK 6 Pack. The ADK 6 Pack will take hikers all around the Adirondacks, so it’s important to drink responsibly when visiting the associated breweries.