Pharaoh Mtn trailhead?

[John Beckman]

I haven't climbed Pharaoh Mtn in probably 30 years. I was looking at the USGS map -- http://www.nysgis.state.ny.us/gisdata/quads/drg24/usgspreview/index... -- which seems to show the road going all the way to Crane Pond. A description of the hike I read, though, seems to indicate that it starts much further back -- around the point where the road turns south when it encounters Alder Creek.

Does anyone know which is the actual trail head for Pharaoh Mtn, pls?

Thanks

[Darleen March]

John,

The latest "Adirondack Great Walks & Day Hikes" shows Pharoah Like access from the south off of Brant Lake heading north to Pharaoh Lake; however you are speaking of the Wildness area (yes, not just the lake?) and Crane Pond is part of Pharoah Wilderness. I've been down Crane, which is passible by 4x4 (rough ride) to the Pond. There are camping sites and the trout hang around the foot bridge in hundreds! Gosh I thought I could just pick them up with my hands. Looks like your trail is around the lake, and I don't remember see the trail head to the mountain, as your map indicates. I'll check my guide book from Mountain Club, and scan in what I find for you. It's at the office, so tomorrow or next.

There are many entry points into this Wilderness: From Crane Pond, from Brant Lake and from Putnam Pond Campground. The Adirondack Regional Tourism puts out a great guide on hikes. Go to http://www.visitadirondacks.org or call 800-487-6867 to get your free guide "Adirondack Great Walks & Day Hikes". I'd mail you mine, but it's all marked up They cover the entire park. Great resource for ideas for your next hike!

The book I mentioned which is better with true maps is the Adirondack Mountain Club. Go to http://www.adk.org or go direct to: http://www.adk.org/new_store/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=GER to get your own guide book of Pharaoh. They have pull out maps and full details. It will help us find the true trail head.

Have fun hiking when you return. The bugs aren't too bad this year!

Darleen