A Short Climb to a Great View

I like the hike to the Giants Nubble because it can be done in much less time than climbing Giant, there are great views along the way, and the view from the Nubble is quite spectacular in itself.

The Zander Scott trail to Giant from the trailhead near Chapel Pond goes right by the trail to the Nubble. It is a steep trail in places, but the ascent to the Nubble is only 1150 feet while the ascent to the summit of Giant is over 3000 feet. The trail junction is about 0.3 miles beyond the Giants Washbowl (pictured above).

To get on the trail, you need to cross the stream at the junction and scramble up the opposite bank (on the trail, of course). About 0.4 miles from this trail junction, you will find another trail junction, with a DEC sign. The trail left is the one to the Nubble. There are great views just after you get on this trail, but after you rest a little, continue on out on this trail to its end at the official Nubble. There you will find a fine view of Giant and the High Peaks to the north and west as well as the Ausable Club in the valley below.

When you get back to the trail junction, you will need to decide which way to go down, the way you came up, or by making a loop trip out of the hike. If you decide on the loop trip, (by following on down the trail to the Giants Washbowl Roaring Brook trail and then back on it to your original trail at the Giants Washbowl) be advised that the descent is somewhat less steep, but you will have to descend around 350 feet further which you will have to regain in order to get back to the Giants Washbowl.

NOTE: For a more complete description of the trail, please see ADK's (guide to) ADIRONDACK TRAILS - High Peaks Region 13th Edition, pp 98-99.

Hope you have a great hike!
Bob Goodwin