For adventurers who like a big reward at the end of a hike, the North Ridge trail of Champlain Mountain offers amazing views of Frenchman Bay and beyond. This hike is great for people who are active but don’t enjoy the thrill of climbing iron rungs or scaling a narrow ledge alongside a cliff, in other words: it’s not scary. This route up Champlain is gradual, with a few steps and climbs at the beginning, it becomes mostly open granite with a gradual uphill as you approach the top. Plan 2-3 hours (includes stops for pictures and snacks) for a round trip hike from the parking area (Park Loop Road 1/4 mile past Bear Brook picnic area on the left) to the summit and back the way you came.
