Allen Mountain sits deep in the High Peaks Wilderness, its 4,340-foot summit more isolated than any other stand-alone Adirondack 46er. Named in 1869 for Rev. William B. Allen by his friend Rev. Joseph Twichell, the peak saw its first recorded ascent in 1921 by the Marshall brothers and Herbert Clark. Its remoteness gives it a reputation as one of the most demanding day hikes on the 46ers list.
The standard route starts at the Upper Works trailhead near Tahawus, following the Hanging Spear Falls Trail (also called the East River Trail) through relatively flat terrain for about 5 miles before an unmarked herd path branches off to the right. The character of the hike then shifts sharply: the upper 1.6 miles pack in more than 2,000 vertical feet, with roughly 1,600 feet in the final mile over steep, eroded terrain. Round trip is approximately 18 to 19 miles; current conditions and a route map are available for planning. The Adirondack Mountain Club discourages alternate approaches via Elk Lake or Mount Skylight due to blowdown and dense second-growth.
The summit itself is forested, but a short spur nearby opens to views of Panther Gorge, Mount Marcy, Skylight, and the Great Range. Wet conditions leave the upper herd path coated in slick algae, making an early start and sturdy footwear essential year-round. Snow lingers on the steep upper slopes well into spring.
