Hiking New York's 15th highest peak
Redfield is the 15th tallest of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks. It is a long, serious hike that requires significant preparation. A successful hike of Mount Redfield involves research, physical fitness, the right gear, and knowledge of Leave No Trace principles.
Redfield was named for Professor William C. Redfield: meteorologist, organizer of, and participant in, the first recorded ascent of Mount Marcy.
Key statistics
- Elevation: 4,606 feet
- Distance: 16.8 miles round trip
- Elevation gain: 3,400 feet
- Hike includes trail junctions, unmarked trail, bridges, and ladders
- Based on an out and back ascent from Upper Works via the Calamity Brook Trail
Hiking Redfield via Calamity Brook
Mount Redfield is often climbed with Cliff Mountain. Below is a description of the approach via Upper Works and the Calamity Brook Trail. Redfield via the Adirondack Loj is the other main way to approach this mountain.
From the Upper Works parking area and historic MacNaughton Cottage, follow a long and somewhat flat approach which initially starts along an old woods road. As the route narrows back to a foot trail you will follow along some attractive waterways and eventually climb modestly to the shore of Flowed Lands. You'll hand left around Flowed Lands, and in around 1 mile you'll cross Lake Colden and the dam. From there head towards Uphill lean-to. Once you reach this area you will see a small cairn on the right side which marks the start of the trail from Redfield and Cliff. Follow this trail to a second cairn.
The Redfield route is the main one and continues straight, right goes to Cliff. If you choose to tack on Cliff, expect to add 1.8 miles and 875 feet of elevation gain round trip. From here you will hike along a gorgeous brook and at times in it. Be sure to take time to look back every now and then to enjoy the views as they open up. There are many attractive small waterfalls along the way as well. The summit of Redfield is a large boulder, offering nice views.
Redfield in the winter
Redfield is a challenging mountain that should only be attempted by experienced hikers, especially in winter, so make sure you are prepared. Snowshoes are necessary, and microspikes or crampons are needed to climb some of the steeper sections, particularly if you add on Cliff Mountain. Plan on temperatures in the higher elevations being at least 20 degrees colder than at the trailhead, not including the windchill. Bring several extra non-cotton layers, a headlamp with spare batteries, extra food, a windbreaker, goggles, a face mask, and supplies for spending the night in case of an emergency. The water crossings on the hike can be especially dangerous during the beginning and end of winter. Always use caution at water crossings. Turning around is always an option.
How to get there
From exit 29 off I-87, turn west onto Blue Ridge Road (CR 84) toward Newcomb. Follow this route for 17.4 miles to an intersection with Tahawus Road (CR 25). Turn right on Tahawus Road and stay on it for 6.3 miles then turn left at a sign for High Peaks trails. Pass by the old blast furnace at 2.8 miles up this road. From the blast furnace, it is less than one mile to your destination. The road dead ends at the Upper Works parking lot.
