Scarface is another Saranac 6er located near the town proper and this one is, in my humble opinion, a bit of a stinker. Views here are very minimal and views from the peak specifically are non-existent. This is one I would only recommend to climbers who want to achieve the Saranac 6er, since this one doesn’t have too much to offer (in my opinion).
There seem to be (and have been over the years) constant and ongoing access issues to this particular hike. At the time of our summit -mid 2021- it was accessible by parking at the Meadowbrook Campgrounds. These days you can access it in Ray Brook off of 32. I had heard rumors that there were additional issues with the route, specifically regarding a large bridge near the start. In the year of our Lord and Savior 2026, that bridge is still out of commission.
I want to make it clear here that I don’t think there is such a thing as a “bad hike,” and that getting out is always better than staying in. That being said, considering how many great trials and mountains there are in the Adirondacks, I struggle to recommend this to someone who just wants a nice trail day.
-I do not recommend this peak, and should only be done by those looking to bag it-
It’s not clear to me what the “best” way to access this peak is, but going from Meadowbrook is pretty clear and easy, just head past the bathroom towards the woods in the back. You’ll come upon a gravel trail that used to be train tracks. Everything from there is pretty self-explanatory.
There are a few scrambles on the way up that will offer mild views, and those are the best you’re going to get, so enjoy them when you see them.
Rating considers trail conditions, difficulty, views and other notable characteristics