Hiking the Adirondacks: Echo Cliff (Panther Mountain) in Winter
The hike to Echo Cliff on Panther Mountain is a short but demanding trail that will give you a lot of bang for your buck. The 0.6-mile out-and-back trail makes its way up the side of Panther Mountain and rewards you with sweeping views of Piseco Lake, Spy Lake, and the Silverlake Wilderness.
This past December we spent a week in the southern Adirondacks and spent as much time outside as possible (despite cold fingers and toes!). We did some great winter hikes to Auger Falls and the Sacandaga Pathway, but the hike to Echo Cliff was the real highlight.
We hiked to Echo Cliff on a late December morning after a winter storm brought 6 inches of fresh snow to the area. The effect was a true winter wonderland hiking experience and spectacular views of the region.
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Guide to hiking to Echo Cliff (Panther Mountain) in winter
The trail up to Echo Cliff begins with a moderate incline and ends with a very steep trek to the summit. While it’s always good practice to register your party at the beginning of a hike, it’s even more important to do so when hiking in winter when trails are icy and weather conditions can be unpredictable.
The first half of the trail (moderate incline) was occasionally icy and slick. If you plan to hike to Echo Cliff in winter, microspikes would be useful but are not necessary.
As the hike continues meandering through the forest, the trail becomes increasingly steeper. The last 0.2-miles is the steepest portion. In winter this is also the most treacherous and iciest part of the trail. However, the steep incline quickly pays off when you reach the summit and take in sweeping views of Piseco Lake and the Silverlake Wilderness.
If hiking to Echo Cliff with a toddler or young child, a carrier is necessary. Although the trail is short (1.2-miles round trip) it gets very steep and is difficult for younger children. Also, as the name suggests, this hike ends at a cliff so keep young children close and away from the edge.
Getting to Echo Cliff (Panther Mountain)
The Echo Cliff trailhead is located off Old Piseco Road in Arietta, New York. From the town of Speculator, take NY-8 South for approximately 15 miles. Turn right on Old Piseco Road, and continue for about 2.5 miles.
The trailhead is on the left-hand side and clearly marked (although you may miss it if you’re driving too fast). Street parking is available on the right side of the road. If you pass Little Sand Point Campground, you’ve gone too far.
Final Thoughts
The hike to Echo Cliff on Panther Mountain was demanding — especially with a toddler in tow — but the view was worth it! It was also amazing to hike this trail after a snow storm. The trees and boulders were covered in snow, giving the area a winter wonderland feel. Despite being steep, the short distance of this hike makes it appropriate for families with babies, toddlers, and young children.
Looking for more winter hikes in the Adirondacks? Consider hiking to Auger Falls or visiting the Sacandaga Pathway. Need more? Check out my guide to visiting Lake Placid in winter!