Cascade Mountain is the 36th-highest of New York's Adirondack High Peaks, with an elevation of 4,098 ft.
Originally named Long Pond Mountain, Cascade Mountain was renamed for the falls between the two Cascade Lakes. The current trail was laid out to replace the old, steeper and eroded trail in 1974.
The trailhead starts on Route 73 and is marked with red discs. The biggest challenge of this hike can be parking. It is not recommended that you park directly on the side of the road due to the danger that presents. Parking to the east or west of the trailhead will allow you to get your car off the road.
Note: On your way to the trailhead, grab a rock. Don’t be alarmed, it’s for a good cause. At the trailhead you will see a sign for “Carry-A-Rock To Cascade”. The rocks will be used by the Summit Stewards to build cairns and define trails.
The distance to the summit of Cascade Mountain is 2.4 miles with an ascent of 1940’, which makes it very enjoyable. While it is regarded by many as the easiest of the 46 High Peaks, it is not recommended for children or those with little hiking experience.
Upon reaching the summit of this bald mountain you will be blown away by the views! Before you forget, look for the sign and deposit your rock. The summit is usually quite crowded, but if you can, find a quiet place to the side to sit and have a bite to eat and take some photos before heading back down. It’s easy to get caught up in the beauty of the view, so keep in mind the amount of time it takes to hike back down.
The Porter Mountain trail intersects with Cascade's trail just below Cascade's summit, so the two can be climbed in combination.