Balm of Gilead Trail Loop

Located about forty-five minutes north of the small city of Glens Falls is the tiny hamlet of North River. The region is known for its garnet mines, established in 1907. This beautiful red mineral is still mined today in Warren County’s “garnet hills.” Visitors to the Garnet Hill Lodge will marvel at the display of beautiful handcrafted jewelry made with the deep red transparent variety of garnet. When not covered by snow, trail users can see examples of the colorful garnet ore embedded in outcroppings and ledges along the trail as well as in rocks found in the streambeds. A wilderness adventure for snowshoers as well as skiers (intermediate/advanced only) it includes “the best scenic view in the Adirondacks for the least amount of work expended,” according to local sources. Balm of Gilead is a name given to a variety of poplar trees with large, fragrant buds that yield a sticky, fragrant resin. This probably accounts for the name of the mountain and trail. Surface quality: Ungroomed and backcountry skiing. Fees: yes.