The trail starts out rather easily as it follows an old railroad grade for quite some distance; only small gentle hills will bring you to the Shore of Cranberry Lake. You will make your way around Dead Creek Flow on an easy trail and soon come to a major intersection. Left will bring you to Janacks Landing and straight is to Cat Mountain. Be sure to sign in and out at this trail register as well. Another mile will convey you to another major intersection with High Falls; hang a left here for Cat Mountain. You will pass by Glasby Pond on a narrow trail and at times very muddy trail, a few rolling hills will bring you to the final intersection with the Cat Mountain summit trail on the left. 

The summit trail is where all the work is done. The summit offers outstanding views from its partially bald summit. A fire tower used to be located here, but now only a radio repeater exists. 

Trailhead Location: 

From the intersection of Route 3 and Route 30 in the Village of Tupper Lake follow Route 3 toward Cranberry Lake. Follow Route 3 for 33.4 miles to CR61 (Wanakena Road) on the left. Follow here and stay straight on the main road to South Shore Road. Follow South Shore Road for 0.6 miles to the trailhead parking on the right.

Distance Round Trip:

12.8 Miles

Elevation: 

2257’

Elevation Gain or Loss: 

750’

Time Round Trip:  

Family with Young Kids:     Not recommended

Experienced Hiker:         5 to 6 hours

Out of Shape Hiker:     6 to 8 hours