Number 8 Mountain(Pharaoh Lake Wilderness-Adirondacks)

With a nice day in the forecast(low humidity, comfortable temps)I decided to head north to the Adirondacks to do some off trail exploring in the beautiful Pharaoh Lake Wilderness.  My starting point for the day was the trailhead for the south access road to Pharaoh Lake, at about 940 feet elevation.  I started by heading north on the access road for about a half mile, avoiding the steepest cliffs of the mountain, before beginning the bushwhack.

The terrain was very easy to negotiate, with a gentle ascent towards the summit. 

In what seemed like no time, I could see the open ledges unfolding just ahead.

Wandering along the open meadow like ledges, progressively getting more and more open.

The view south/ southwest over Brant Lake is nothing short of spectacular.  The small summit of Sand Beach Mountain rises along the west shore of the lake, while the Bent Lee Farm sits at the foot of the mountain.

To the west, Valentine Pond sits among a sea of green, with numerous peaks on the distant horizon.

The open ledges are really enjoyable to explore and make a perfect lunch spot(when there is no wind).

A zoom view of the Bent Lee Farm, far below.

Continuing along the ledges, which stays open for quite a bit, offering up different views.

The east/ southeast view towards the Brothers.

A last look down over Brant Lake and beyond towards the southern Adirondacks.

I've often said that pictures don't do justice to the beauty of a spot, and I really feel this way for these ledges.  It is a truly special location.

The open ledges on the mountain sit nearly 200 vertical feet below the summit, but a short bushwhack brings you to the lovely 1946 foot, park like summit area.

 An easy descent back through open woods brought me back down to the access road, and eventually to the car.  A lot of bang for the buck on this beauty!  About 4 miles RT, with 1000 feet of elevation gain.
On my drive home, I took a moment to soak in the view of the mountain from below, near the North Brant Lake Cemetery.  The rock ledges really stand out from here.