Indian Pass from the "Upper Works" - Wallface Mountain

On Wednesday September 15, 2004 my friend Jeff and I traveled down to the Newcomb area to an historic place called Upper Works. (Interstate 87 to exit 29, left on ridge road approximately 17 miles to Tahawus, another 8 miles to Upper Works)

Parking was spacious but it was filling fast. We signed in at the register around 7:45 am and we were on our way. Starting out on a wide graveled road and soon turning left at the first junction, the trail for the next 1.7 miles was muddy but a side step here and there and many rock hops later we arrived at the Henderson lean-to, a nice place to camp.

Making our way back on the once again muddy trail, we followed the Indian Pass brook to Wallface lean-to at 2.7 miles. Taking a rest here we took in the brook in front of us and looked at the many options for camping.

Heading back out again on the level and easy grade, we arrived at Indian Pass brook where we crossed once more and ventured onto the final 0.5 miles of trail that was as different as any that I have been on. The trail winds through huge boulders, weaving in and out, above and below until arriving at two ladders. Climbing these ladders, we finished this maze of a trail at another ladder (photo) which climbed steeply up the last section of land to a side trail left to Summit Rock and a view of what I consider to be one of the best of the season.

Wallface's huge cliffs are near 1000 feet and a sight not to be missed. (photo) It took 2 1/2 hours to get there and was worth every minute. We stayed atop at Summit rock for an hour before departing back down the maze that took us there. Be very careful on the descent as one slip of the foot could be treacherous.

Exploring the trail on the way back and its many twists and turns, we snapped many photos of the foliage along the way and finally arrived back at the trailhead at 2:45 PM. This trail for the first 3.9 miles is as easy as there is but the last 0.5 miles you need to focus on the task at hand.

This area is rich in history and one should stop on the way out to view the houses and blast furnace along the road.

NOTE: For a more complete description of the trail, please see ADK's (guide to) ADIRONDACK TRAILS - High Peaks Region 13th Edition, pp 232-233.

Enjoy!!!!
Rick McCorry, Jeff Rock.