Mount Skylight

Mount Skylight is a summit in Adirondack Park with a bare, flat top that stands out when viewed from surrounding ridges. Large stone markers sit at the peak, making the actual highest point easy for hikers to locate.

The mountain was first climbed in 1873 when surveying expeditions reached the summit to map the region. Its name had been given just years earlier in 1857 by people who saw the distinctive rock feature at the top.

The peak's name comes from a rock formation at the summit that resembles a window, giving the place a poetic character that has stuck with locals and visitors. This naming reflects how people see and interpret the landscape around them.

The hike to the summit is long and demanding, so start early and be prepared for changing mountain weather. The trail is well-marked and follows established paths, but expect steep sections and plan for a full day of hiking.

Nearby sits Lake Tear of the Clouds, which serves as the highest water source that feeds the Hudson River. This small mountain lake surprises many hikers who discover its connection to one of the region's most important waterways.