McKenzie Mountain

McKenzie Mountain rises to about 3,861 feet and is accessed by two different trails that lead to views of Whiteface Mountain and Lake Placid. The area offers forested hiking experiences with distinctly different landscapes depending on which route you choose.

The mountain was previously called Saddleback because of its distinctive two-peak shape. A trail maintained by the Shore Owner's Association since 1896 connects the Lake Shore Path to the summit and remains the main hiking route.

The peak is part of the Saranac Lake 6ers challenge, which draws hikers aiming to complete all six mountains in this group. Many visitors connect this hike with others in the collection to achieve the full set.

The easier access is from Whiteface Inn Road with a shorter climb, while the route from Route 86 in Ray Brook is longer and demands more stamina. Both paths can be slippery, especially after rain, so proper footwear and caution are important.

The final climb to the summit features five distinct elevation changes, with each small bump offering new perspectives of the Adirondack landscape. This natural terracing makes the ascent interesting because the views keep shifting.