This Trip is day one of a three day - four highpoint jaunt.
Since the Mt. Greylock Mass highpoint is a driveup, and didn't involve an actual hike, I'll focus on Mt. Marcy New York in this posting.
We were able to catch a breakfast, do Mt.Greylock, drive to Mt. Marcy, and hike up a few miles, just above the lake and make camp. In fact, it seems most people camp near the lake, however, I suggest you push forward, and just after the next major creek crossing there is a nice site on a hillside to your right where you can hear the stream all night! Lots of trees to set your hammock in as well.
This is a view from the dam towards the mountain. Just over three miles from trailhead.
The beginning of the Trail is fairly smooth and easygoing for the most part. A few footbridges save you from slogging thorough the mud and muck. Hats of to the trail maintenance folks here!
On your way down you'll be happy to return to the couple of miles of soft dirt-padded trails. This stuff is like carpet compared to the rocky obstacles you'll encounter on the topside.
There's just enough rock hopping on the ascent to keep it interesting. I will mention we weren't plagued by all the flies and bugs I've seen referenced in other trip reports. Considering it was mid-August, it was also pleasantly cool as well!
Lots of nice views and vista's the higher you get. Everything was very lush and green.
This is my pal Dave on the left. As I mentioned, we camped about a mile up the trail in hammocks. It was a perfect nights sleep. There is a deep pool to soak in nearby, with icy cold clear water. Of course you could do this 14 mile round trip in one day, but a day and a half made it much more enjoyable, with time to poke around and check out the scenery.
This is the view from the summit. There were a few folks at the top, lots of families and small groups.
And finally, a shot of the summit marker. All in all, I think this hike is very under rated in the Highpointing guides and trip reports. The surrounding area is pleasant for driving. In fact, we took a ferry across to Burlington Vt. the next day which was an adventure in itself. Only a couple of hours drive to Mt. Mansfield and another highpoint!
