The 20 Most Challenging Hikes in America, Ranked

5.Mount Marcy via Van Hoevenberg Trail, Adirondack Park, New York

Difficulty: Class 4

Mount Marcy, the highest peak in New York State, offers an iconic yet demanding hike via the Van Hoevenberg Trail. This 14.8-mile roundtrip trail climbs 3,166 feet to the summit at 5,344 feet, guiding hikers through scenic forests and alpine vegetation to sweeping views of the Adirondack Mountains.

This full-day hike typically takes 8-10 hours, making it a strenuous challenge, but reaching the summit of New York’s tallest peak rewards hikers with incredible panoramic vistas. Hiking Mount Marcy is a full-day adventure, with the length and elevation gain demanding stamina. The summit offers unbeatable views of the Adirondacks, making this trail a must-do for serious hikers.