Rogers Rock is not only a very popular State campground along the west shore of Lake George, but also provides access to spectacular views from the tops of three separate summit bumps that rise far up above the lake. Although in the summer months there is a entrance fee, during the off-season the gate is kept open and you can hike for free. An old trail, unmaintained but heavily used and blazed(and at times flagged)in orange, starts from campsite 210, entering the woods heading NE. There is no signage to indicate where the trail starts, but it can easily be picked out from the backside of campsite 210, elevation 440 feet.
Within just a few minutes the "trail" arrives at the foot of the western cliffs of the mountain, with large boulders littering the slopes above.
The trail turns east in just a moment, gaining elevation quickly. While the climb is short, it is very steep and at times wet. Before you know it, there are screened views already opening up towards Lake George.
The views aren't just towards the lake, but wide open to the west as well! Looking out towards the peaks surrounding Route 8 between Hague and Brant Lake.
Once atop the first summit bump, there are numerous ledges, each with incredible views of Lake George. These views are not to be missed!!! South facing views spreading over Anthony's Nose and all the way down towards Black Mountain on the distant east shoreline.
From the ledges, looking SE across the lake at Record Hill and Anthony's Nose.
I can't stress this enough if anyone is bringing small kids..these ledges are quite dangerous and the drop off is no joke.
Well back from the ledges and back into the woods, I found this small but pretty vernal pond, which seemed to be teeming with life.
From a spot just off the old trail, I was able to see the open rock on the second summit bump, just ahead.
While there are decent views on the second bump, they don't come close to comparing to the first bump. I did enjoy a slightly different angle over the lake, still looking south.
A very easy bushwhack a few yards off the trail brought me up to the 1027 foot high point,which was fully wooded.
From the second bump, looking back at the first summit bump and its open cliffs.
The informal trail eventually leads to a third summit bump, which has amazing north facing views towards Cooks Mountain and the north end of Lake George. Wow!
After hitting all three bumps, I turned back, retracing my steps, and enjoying the wonderful views along the way.
There are so many great views on this short hike that you are almost overwhelmed. To add to that, I had the entire mountain to myself. If it wasn't for a strong, cold wind I could've stayed up here forever.
Hiked about 3.3 miles total a touch over 800 feet of ascent. A pretty easy hike with a tremendous amount of bang for the buck!!!
Today's route below.
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