Mount Marcy Expedition+ Camping Summit Challenge

Let’s rise, together, to the highest peak in New York.

This is a one day, high elevation summit hike to Mount Marcy (5,344 ft), New York’s tallest peak, completed in a single, physically demanding, and deeply rewarding day. With only 5 total spots available, this will be an intimate and powerful group experience rooted in intention, strength, and presence.

We’ll begin our hike at 6:00 a.m. sharp on Saturday, August 30, departing camp at 5:15 a.m. to reach the trailhead on time. The hike will be approximately 15 miles round trip with ~3,500 ft of elevation gain. Expect a strong and steady pace, suitable only for intermediate to advanced hikers.

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🏕️ Camping Logistics (Details Shared Privately with Confirmed Participants)
• We’ve reserved two campsites, each allowing up to two tents
• The campground is located 20 minutes from the Mount Marcy trailhead
• Check-in is Friday, August 29; reservation runs through Monday, Sept 1
• We will leave camp at 5:15 a.m. on Saturday to begin hiking by 6:00 a.m. sharp

You are not required to stay the full weekend, participants are welcome to join just for the summit day and leave after. But if you choose to stay longer, read on:

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🌤️ Sunday. Optional Exploration & Recovery

Sunday, August 31, will be a flexible, low-key day for those staying the full weekend. We’ll enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area, whether that means relaxing at Heart Lake, visiting scenic spots nearby, journaling in nature, or simply unwinding with good company.

Everyone is welcome to do activities solo or in group. There’s no fixed agenda, this is your time to recover, reconnect, and enjoy the stillness of the Adirondacks.

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🥾 Monday. Optional Bonus Hike (Group Decision)

For those who feel ready after Sunday’s rest, we may take on a second, lighter hike on Monday, September 1.
The trail and timing will be decided as a group based on how everyone feels.

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🧭 Saturday. Mount Marcy Itinerary
• 5:15 a.m. Depart campground
• 6:00 a.m. sharp. Begin ascent from Adirondak Loj
• ~7.5 miles to the summit (with breaks for snacks and scenery)
• Return via same route
• Estimated completion: late afternoon

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🌲 Trail Overview
• Trailhead: Adirondak Loj
• Length: ~15 miles round trip
• Elevation Gain: ~3,500 feet
• Difficulty: Hard
• Pace: Strong and steady (intermediate/advanced hikers only)
• Highlights: Forested paths, alpine exposure, panoramic views, rich ecological diversity

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🎒 What to Bring

A full checklist will be sent to confirmed participants.
• Hiking boots
• Trekking poles
• Layered clothing (base, insulation, shell)
• Headlamp + batteries
• 3L of water + electrolytes
• High-calorie snacks and lunch
• First aid kit
• Optional: towel/swimsuit for Heart Lake

Campers should also bring:
• Tent + sleeping gear
• Bear canister
• Food for all days
• Camp stove + utensils
• Bug spray, hygiene items, change of clothes

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To join this activity, your Meetup messaging must be enabled and your profile must include a clear, identifiable photo. Members who do not meet these criteria may be removed from the “Going” list.

Due to the physical demands and group energy of this experience, the group will be intentionally small, and screening questions will be required for confirmation.

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⚠️ DISCLAIMER
By participating in all events, you acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to injury, weather conditions, wildlife encounters, and difficult terrain. You understand that these risks can result in serious injury or even death. By attending this event, you agree to release and hold harmless the organizer(s), the group, and any affiliated parties from any and all liabilities, claims, and demands of whatever kind, either in law or in equity, which arise or may hereafter arise from your participation in the event. Participants are responsible for assessing their own fitness and skill levels, bringing appropriate gear, and staying aware of their surroundings. You acknowledge that you are voluntarily participating in this event with full knowledge of the risks involved and agree to accept any and all risks. By attending this event, you confirm that you have read, understand, and agree to this disclaimer in its entirety.