First Light on Algonquin
Nothing excites me more than being out in the Adirondack backcountry. It is my hearts home. So, when the opportunity to hike for sunrise came up, I didn’t want to miss it! I was giddy like a little child!
My adventure buddy, Josee and I decided to complete the MacIntyre Range (Fondly called the Macs) this trip with a sunrise beginning on Wright. It was to be a beautiful day that promised the sight of the sun; thank goodness, because I was missing it so much!
We left town and arrived at the ADK Loj around 4:50am and were on the trail hiking soon after. We followed the trail until we hit 0.9 mi where the junction splits to go left to Marcy Dam and right towards Algonquin. We continued along Algonquin trail which is steady and gradual. These first few miles were uneventful; we were going at a good clip until we reached MacIntyre Falls which sits at 3500′ in elevation and 2.6 miles from the beginning. It was too dark for a photo so I opted to get one on the way back out.
MacIntyre Falls
From here the grade steepens, slowing us down a bit. Not wanting to miss the sunrise we couldn’t slow down too much. Once we reached the junction to turn left for Wright Peak. Here there was only 0.4 miles left to go! Summit rush set in, but my leg muscles didn’t get the memo. We carefully ascended the rocks and were mesmerized by the changing colors all around us. We reached the summit in 2 hours and 21 minutes and just in time before the sun came up! The sights were magical and while the winds around us were gusting upwards of 70mph! Although cold and windy, I stayed toasty warm! The way Wright Peak sits surrounded by the other high peaks creates a wind corridor and thus, year round experiences ripping winds.
I basked in the glory of the sights before me, took way too many photos and decided we probably should go onto our next mountain. Algonquin.
We carefully descended the 0.4 miles back to the junction. There wasn’t much snow accumulated and ice was scattered upon the rocks. My microSpikes were sufficient and my trekking poles helped tremendously! Before heading up Algonquin we took some time to hydrate and eat a quick snack. Onwards and upwards!
From the junction we continued around 0.2 miles until we were completely exposed from tree line. The winds weren’t too overbearing and I remained comfortable and warm. The snow coverage on the rocks was enough to make it enjoyable going up despite the impressive climb of 500ft over the half mile. We were rewarded with outstanding beauty from the 360 degree views atop of the second tallest high peak.
Summit of Algonquin
We snapped our photos and continued on. Following the cairns to the backside of Algonquin brought us to the base. We were to go right on towards Boundary Peak and not left, which would take us down to Lake Colden. From here it would only be 1.1 miles to Iroquois summit.
The trail to Boundary and Iroquois was untouched since the last snowfall. That meant putting on the snowshoes and breaking trail. The trail is narrow and the snow covered trees made it magical to walk through. We reached Boundary in no time and moved onto Iroquois. Although we had to break trail for a bit, it was less strenuous than having to ascend and descend Algonquin.
Breaking trail to Iroquois
Not having run into anyone until our way back from Iroquois, we were suddenly met with 3 groups of people, thanking us for making their trek a little easier by breaking trail.
I was tired and the thought of having to reascend and descend Algonquin had me thinking about my life choices. I pushed through and by the time I reascended, I was elated and proud of my accomplishments of the day. It was smooth sailing from here. Quite literally as the butt sliding was abundant and in excellent conditions for it.
After the butt sliding was done we reached the junction for Wright once again. Here we took off our layers, hydrated and had a snack. There was a bounce in our step and we chatted joyfully down back to the junction to Marcy Dam. Our summit high didn’t last too long as we were tired and so happy when we saw the sign telling us we only had 0.9 miles to go!
With visions of Wrights sunrise dancing before my eyes, we signed out and were excitedly talking about the possibilities of our next trip!
Total Mileage: 11.4 Miles
Total Time including stops and breaks: 9 hours
