HAYSTACK, BASIN, AND SADDLEBACK LOOP
via The Garden
This epic loop hike, commonly known as “HaBaSa,” is considered one of the premier hiking experiences in the Adirondack High Peaks. Challenging yet exceptionally rewarding, it encompasses dramatic summits, extensive exposed ridgelines, and panoramic vistas, making it a must for experienced hikers.
What to know
Start:
The Garden Trailhead,
Keene Valley
Elevation Gain:
5,500 feet
Summit Elevations:
Mount Haystack: 4,960 feet
Basin Mountain: 4,827 feet
Saddleback Mountain: 4,515 feet
Trail Length:
18.8 miles
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Difficulty:
6 out of 7 Very Difficult
Average Hiking Time:
11-13 hours
Dog Friendliness:
Due to the nature of these trails and cliffs, dogs are not recommended on this loop.
Trail Surface:
Well-trafficked mixed rock and dirt surfaces, with significant steep scrambling and slab sections with fully exposed sections.
Water Availability:
Abundant, particularly at Johns Brook Lodge and along numerous streams
Maximum Grade:
Haystack: 1,250 feet over 1 mile (Slant Rock to first Haystack viewpoint), including a steep 350-foot climb over 0.2 miles at the Range/Phelps intersection.
Basin: 700 feet over 0.5 miles (final ascent).
Saddleback: 220 feet over 0.1 miles (the infamous cliffs).
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View Type:
Outstanding panoramic views from all summits, including Basin’s exceptional 360-degree vista, Haystack’s dramatic exposed ridgeline, and Saddleback’s spectacular cliff ascent.
Special Considerations:
Trekking poles and gaiters are highly recommended. Ensure you carry sufficient water, start early, and evaluate conditions at each summit before continuing.
Intro
Known affectionately as the “HaBaSa” loop, this hike covers Mount Haystack, Basin Mountain, and Saddleback Mountain in one ambitious trek. It's renowned among Adirondack hikers for its diversity and sheer beauty. While historically significant, it's notably demanding, featuring rugged terrain, technical scrambles, and breathtaking alpine views, making it an unforgettable experience for seasoned hikers. This has been a well known loop since the early 1900's with Bob Marshall completing the first one.
The Hike
Begin at the Garden Trailhead in Keene Valley. After signing in, follow the well-marked trail toward Johns Brook Lodge (JBL). At 0.5 miles, stay right toward JBL, continuing over rolling terrain and crossing Johns Brook multiple times.
At 3.1 miles, sign in at the second registry before arriving at JBL at 3.6 miles—a good spot for refilling water or resting. Continue past the lodge following signs toward Bushnell Falls and Mount Marcy.
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About 1.6 miles past JBL, you'll reach a sign for Hopkins Trail; continue straight, dipping down to cross Johns Brook near Bushnell Falls. Shortly afterward, pass a privy (right) and the Bushnell Falls lean-to (left). Continue ascending 1.6 miles through lush new-growth forest, crossing Basin Brook and then Johns Brook again just before reaching Slant Rock at 7.0 miles, marked by a massive slanted rock.
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From Slant Rock, continue 0.1 miles to another intersection, following signs toward Marcy (2.1 miles). The trail becomes steeper and rockier for 0.8 miles, paralleling Johns Brook to the Range Trail intersection. Here, turn left toward Haystack (1 mile).
The next 0.5-mile section is extremely steep and technical, requiring careful maneuvering and occasional handholds. Eventually, you'll crest a sub-peak offering spectacular views of Haystack directly ahead. Descend briefly 150 feet to intersect the Range Trail again. Here, the final exposed 0.5-mile ascent to Haystack’s summit begins.
Follow clearly marked rock cairns and yellow-painted indicators as you ascend Little Haystack.
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Carefully descend the technical rock faces on the far side, following the marked trail weaving briefly through forested patches before climbing steeply again. Continue carefully navigating the exposed and rocky terrain until reaching the dramatic summit of Mount Haystack at 9.0 miles.
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Return to the Range Trail intersection and turn right toward Basin Mountain. Pass Sno-Bird Campsite (9.9 miles, potential water refill), then climb steeply for 0.7 miles to Basin’s summit at 10.7 miles. The ascent involves ladders, scrambles, and careful navigation. Basin offers breathtaking 360-degree views. Hiking beyond this point should be taken very seriously. The trail between Basin and Saddleback has no exit, and is most likely the most dangerous section of hiking trail in all of the High Peaks.
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Descending Basin, traverse technical dropdowns toward Saddleback. At 11.2 miles, reach the base of the infamous Saddleback Cliffs. Carefully ascend this challenging, steep rock face marked by yellow blazes. Ropes are not necessary here, and it would be recommended to just follow the yellow blazes instead of finding your own route. It is well marked. This is a pretty short section. One thing to note is that this exposed rock is not very slippery as it gets much sunlight and wind.
Summit Saddleback at 11.3 miles, taking in dramatic views of Basin and Gothics. Descend Saddleback’s ridgeline to the Orebed Brook Trail intersection (11.8 miles). Turn left, descending Orebed Brook Trail back to JBL (15.0 miles). This section of trail is somewhat washed out and should use caution with trail navigation. From JBL, return along your initial route, concluding the epic loop at the Garden Trailhead (18.8 miles).
Trail Summary
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0.0 miles: Start at Garden Trailhead
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0.5 miles: Right toward Johns Brook Lodge (JBL)
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3.1 miles: Second sign-in; continue to JBL
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3.6 miles: JBL; continue toward Bushnell Falls
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5.4 miles: Bushnell Falls; cross Johns Brook
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7.0 miles: Slant Rock
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8.0 miles: Range Trail intersection; left toward Haystack
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9.0 miles: Summit of Mount Haystack; return to intersection
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9.5 miles: Turn right toward Basin
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10.7 miles: Summit of Basin
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11.2 miles: Base of Saddleback Cliffs
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11.3 miles: Summit of Saddleback
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11.8 miles: Left onto Orebed Brook Trail
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15.0 miles: JBL
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18.8 miles: Return to Garden Trailhead
