These 14,000 acres can be some of the harshest in the Adirondacks in terms of climate and terrain, but also the most beautiful if you hike to some of its small summits and backcountry ponds. Located in the Essex County towns of Wilmington, Jay, and Keene — as well as a portion of the town of Black Brook in Clinton County — it includes the area between Whiteface Mountain Ski Center, Whiteface Veterans’ Memorial Highway, and state routes 431 and 86.
Access to the area is gained through the Wilmington Flume trail system, 2 miles south of the village of Wilmington on Route 86, or via the Bear Den Mountain trailhead at the Whiteface Mountain Ski Area.
Hiking
There are quite a few different trails you can use to get views of the Wilmington Wild Forest! Here are some of them:
Hunting
The slope, elevation changes, and prevailing winds mean those hunting here should be prepared. The varying habitat here – as southern deciduous forest meets the northern coniferous trees – supports a wide variety of species, notably hare and grouse.
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Packages and Promotions
Valid Nov. 25 - Nov. 29
Valid Nov. 10 - Nov. 25
Thanksgiving in the Mountains
Sugar House Retreats
Spend Thanksgiving at Sugar House ADK Base Camp, a modern farmhouse offering stunning mountain views, a hot tub, and a game room, making it the perfect getaway for family and friends. Enjoy quality time together with various activities and a fully-equipped kitchen to create a memorable holiday feast.
Valid Apr. 30 - Oct. 30
Valid Apr. 30 - Oct. 30
NY Fiber Trail at Young's Studio & Gallery
Young's Studio & Gallery
Pick up your free passport for the NY Fiber Trail at Young's Studio & Gallery May 1-Oct 31, and discover a wide selection of yarns!
Valid Nov. 15
Valid Nov. 13 - Nov. 15
$25 Sunday Supper at Summit and Spice
NewVida Restaurant and Craft Bar
Visit Summit and Spice in NewVida Preserve this Sunday, November 16, for the launch of their Blue Plate Special Sunday Dinner.
Valid Nov. 22 - Nov. 25
Valid Nov. 19 - Nov. 25
Landscape Paintings Cider Sale!
Sandy's
Landscape Paintings Holiday Cider Sale. Buy 3 or more bottles and save $5/per bottle.
Valid May. 2 - Oct. 25
Valid May. 2 - Oct. 25
High Falls Gorge Online Ticket Sales
High Falls Gorge
High Falls Gorge, the Adirondacks' most stunning 30-minute walk around four waterfalls on the majestic Ausable River, is offering 10% off all summe
Valid
Valid Nov. 20 - Dec. 17
weekly on Friday, Saturday and Sunday until December 21, 2025
Yuletide Family Weekend
Santa's Workshop
Experience a family Christmas adventure at Santa's Workshop - North Pole, N.Y.! Designed primarily for families with children aged 2 to 10, this package guarantees quality family time with two memorable evenings and two full days of enchantment.