High Peaks Wilderness Area

The High Peaks Wilderness Area spans 275,460 acres of mountainous terrain, containing 46 peaks above 4,000 feet, including Mount Marcy at 5,344 feet elevation.

The area underwent significant expansion in 2018 through the integration of 45,208 acres from Dix Mountain and 11,411 acres from the Boreas Pond tract.

The wilderness maintains strict regulations to preserve its natural state, dividing the territory into Eastern and Western zones with specific rules for each section.

Visitors must use bear-resistant food canisters from April through November, maintain group sizes under 15 people, and register at trail entrances.

Lake Tear of the Clouds, situated at 4,300 feet, represents the highest water source in the Hudson River watershed system.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 44.19030,-74.02690

Latest update: May 17, 2025 05:06