Watch the Sun Rise on a First Day Hike on Silver Lake Mountain

Greet the first sunrise of 2026 from the summit of Silver Lake Mountain. This early-morning First Day Hike offers sweeping views of Whiteface Mountain and the northeastern Adirondacks.

Essential details.

Date: Thursday, January 1, 2026
Start Time: 6:00 am (sunrise at summit ~7:30 am)
Location: Silver Lake Mountain Trailhead, Black Brook
Distance: 1.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep)
Registration: Required

What to know before you go.

Though short, this hike gains roughly 900 feet and includes sections of bedrock and roots. Several scenic clearings along the way offer natural rest stops before reaching the summit.

• Headlamp required (hike begins in darkness)

• Microspikes/crampons strongly recommended

• Snowshoes and trekking poles suggested

• Minimum age: 8

• No pets allowed

Questions? Contact liam.foran@dec.ny.gov or (607) 422-9409

For more information, visit the website. Learn more about First Day Hikes in the Adirondacks.

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