Esther Mountain
#28
About Esther Mountain
Esther Mountain reaches 4,240 feet (1,292 m) and is the twenty-eighth highest peak in New York. Located just north of Whiteface Mountain, Esther is typically climbed in conjunction with its more famous neighbor. The mountain is entirely wooded at the summit with limited views, though there are some lookout points on the trail. Esther is named after Esther McComb, who made the first recorded ascent of the mountain in 1839 at the age of 15 while attempting to reach Whiteface. The most common approach is via the Wilmington Trail to Whiteface, with a side trip along a well-established but unmarked herd path to Esther's summit.
History
Esther Mountain has a unique naming history among the High Peaks. It is the only one named after a woman and honors Esther McComb, who accidentally made the first recorded ascent in 1839. The teenage Esther was trying to reach Whiteface Mountain from Wilmington but took a wrong turn and ended up on the neighboring peak instead. Her pioneering spirit is commemorated by the mountain's name, officially designated in 1936. The summit of Esther was once more open, but forest succession has filled in most viewing areas, though efforts have been made to maintain some lookouts. The peak was not included in the original survey of the High Peaks but was later measured at over 4,000 feet and added to the 46er list. Today, most hikers reach Esther as a side trip while climbing Whiteface.
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