Mount Jo is a small mountain with mighty views of the Adirondack High Peaks
Mount Jo is a small mountain that rises up from the shores of Heart Lake near the Adirondak Loj just to the north of the Adirondack High Peaks. While the Adirondak Loj Trailhead provides the northern access to much of the High Peaks, it’s also the start of the short hike to the summit of Mount Jo.
The easiest way to reach the summit of Mount Jo is to take the three mile lollipop loop hike from the trailhead and parking area at the Loj. You’ll ascend via the Short Trail, reach the summit and then descend via the Long Trail and reconnect to the Short Trail just before reaching the shores of Heart Lake. Along the way you’ll climb about 750 feet in elevation to reach the summit and do the loop.
Note that there is a parking fee for this trailhead and it does fill up on very quickly on weekends. If you are staying at the Loj, or in the adjacent campground, this trail is also easily accessible from those facilities.
The trails are well maintained, well marked, and easy to follow. There’s also plenty of signage along the way to guide you to the summit and back to the trailhead. This makes a great first hike in the Adirondacks, especially on a clear day. There are visitor services available in the High Peaks Information Center, along with gear rentals if you forgot something.
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