I wish one day to have the confidence to do these kinds of hikes. It’s my resolution for this year to start hiking a bit, but I’ll start with the marked and safe routes. Really exited to explore the Adirondacks this summer.
If you have questions in the Adirondack High Peaks, hit me up. I've finished the 46ers and am going back in two weeks to hike some in pursuit of a winter 46er badge.
My hiker friends recommended I do Franconia ridge as a weekend trip and mt algonquin as a day hike. I don’t know if I’ll go more than a couple times this summer (definitely not planning to do the 46 anytime soon). Do you think these are good peaks for an absolute beginner? Or are there other routes tu liked better?
I haven't done Franconia ridge but have done Algonquin. I've actually hiked Algonquin twice to the summit. The first time I tried it I turned back at the tree line in windy, winter conditions. I think it's a good option for a beginner as long as you're reasonably fit. My first Adirondack hike was Wright Peak. Wright is located just off Algonquin, and the hikes are the same for 90% of the distance. Algonquin wouldn't really be any harder. While I'm more fit now, I didn't exercise regularly when I did Wright. The trail to Algonquin is pretty easy to follow. Above the tree line you should pay attention to where you went up so you can follow down the same way, but in good summer conditions it's a piece of cake to do. Algonquin is an amazing hike and probably the best in the Adirondack High Peaks that's accessible to a beginner. Cascade is the "traditional" beginner summit, but I agree with your friends' suggestion for Algonquin.
The Adirondacks looks really nice! What are your main fears regarding hikes like that?
Mostly being a complete beginner (that might even be an overstatement - I literally did 2 hikes in my entire life). So I have no understanding of anything. So planning a hike would be hard since I don’t even know how long it would take me to cover a certain distance. That’s not to mention all the other safety stuff like getting enough water or eh... whatever else is important. And how do I not get lost in the woods?! I’ll stick to marked trails and day hikes for a bit!
I feel you. Before planning my trip to Canada & Alaska, I never did too much hiking except on rare occasions. I bought a tent and an inflatable mattress for the first time 2 months before this hike after some googling. Lets say you can learn those things quite fast! If you have some questions regarding hiking, I would love to answer if I can help.