Hiking Plans and Trip Guides
Want to make the most of the great outdoors without stretching your wallet?
We plan your entire trip and give personal insights to every outdoor adventure. Just tell us your goal and your time horizon - we do the rest.
Want to make the most of the great outdoors without stretching your wallet?We plan your entire trip and give personal insights to every outdoor adventure. Just tell us your goal and your time horizon - we do the rest.
Our services include:- selecting a route and/or campsite
- creating full trip itineraries (where to go, when to leave, parking, etc.)
- providing gear lists
- customized nutrition guides and fitness training plans
- full weather reports and last-minute weather updates
Our services include:- selecting a route and/or campsite- creating full trip itineraries (where to go, when to leave, parking, etc.)- providing gear lists- customized nutrition guides and fitness training plans- full weather reports and last-minute weather updates
Our Mission:
"The internet is flooded with outdoor advice, but more information hasn't made the backcountry any safer. Today’s popular apps are oversaturated with conflicting reviews, exaggerated risks, and crowd-sourced guesswork that often leaves hikers unprepared. After more than a decade of navigating the coldest temperatures, deepest snow, and most remote peaks, we’ve learned that public data is no substitute for hard-earned experience - that's why we formed The Adirondack Tool Co. We’re here to cut through the digital noise. Just tell us your goal, and we'll provide a definitive blueprint on what to bring, where to go, and how to get there safely. Unlock your wild side with The Adirondack Tool Co. - Hiking Plans, Guides, and Gear."
"You don't need a sherpa for one day in the woods..." - The ADK Tool Co. Team
Our Services
Hiking Itineraries
YOU got this....
Gear Lists
Don't overpay for gear you don't need...
Nutrition Guides / Plans
Feel good all day long...
Weather Reports
This isn't the alpine death zone...
Fitness Training Plans
Minimize breaks and stay confident...
Summit Flags
For the ultimate Instagram post...
Gear List Example
What You Receive:
Our custom gear lists are tailored to your specific hike, season, experience level, and expected weather conditions. Each list outlines recommended clothing, safety equipment, navigation/communication tools, emergency supplies, and optional gear to help you prepare confidently. The list includes links to our store as well so you can easily purchase any gear you need.Why It Matters:
Bringing the wrong gear can turn an enjoyable hike into a difficult or even dangerous experience. A personalized gear list helps reduce uncertainty, avoid overpacking, and ensure you're prepared for changing mountain conditions. We were guilty of overpacking for at least our first 5 winter hikes. If you follow what everyone else says, you'll be carrying your world on your back - let us give you a gear loadout that makes sense and keeps you moving.Best For:
- First-time Adirondack hikers
- Aspiring 46ers
- Winter hiking preparation
- Thru-Hikes/Camping/Backpacking trips
- Hikers traveling from the West Coast or other regions with different climatesExample:
Day-of Nutrition Guide Example
What You Receive:
Our day-of-hike nutrition guides provide recommendations for meals, snacks, hydration, and electrolyte intake before, during, and after your hike. Plans are designed around hike length, elevation gain, expected weather, and personal preferences.Why It Matters:
Many hikers underestimate how much energy they burn in the mountains. Proper fueling can improve performance, reduce fatigue, help prevent cramps, and keep energy levels consistent throughout the day. When we first started hiking, we would spend the whole afternoon with no food. This led to uneccesary fatigue, and many failed summits (especially in the winter). We had to learn our lesson about nutrition the hard way - you don't have to.Best For:
- Long day hikes
- Adirondack High Peaks adventures
- First-time mountain hikers
- Winter hiking trips
- Hikers attempting multiple peaks in a single dayExample:
Longer Term Nutrition Guide Example
What You Receive:
These guides provide nutrition recommendations leading up to your hike or throughout your backpacking trip. Topics may include hydration strategies, calorie targets, meal planning, recovery nutrition, weight loss, and preparation for demanding outdoor activities.Why It Matters:
Preparing your body before a major hike can improve endurance, recovery, and overall performance. Small adjustments in day-to-day nutrition can make a significant difference on challenging mountain days. Having a healthy, well-fueled body will produce a meaningful increase in your performance, confidence, and comfort in the backcountry.Best For:
• Aspiring outdoorspeople
• Multi-day backpacking trips
• High-intensity mountaineering objectives
• General preparationExample:
Weather Report Example
What You Receive:
Our weather reports combine forecast data, mountain-specific conditions, temperature expectations, wind forecasts, precipitation outlooks, sunrise and sunset information, and potential hazards relevant to your planned route. We use local observations and online data to create your weather report.Why It Matters:
Mountain weather can change quickly and often differs significantly from nearby towns. Understanding expected conditions helps hikers make informed decisions about gear, timing, route selection, and overall trip safety. In rare cases, weather can be excessively dangerous to where we may suggest a different date or safer excursion - but there is almost always a way to stay prepared and safe on your expected date.Best For:
- Winter hiking trips
- Multi-peak itineraries
- Long-distance routesExample:
Summit Flag Example
What You Receive:
Our custom summit flags provide a unique way to commemorate your outdoor accomplishments. Flags can be carried to the summit, photographed during your hike, and displayed afterward as a reminder of your achievement.Why It Matters:
Reaching a summit is more than just completing an objective. A summit flag adds to a lasting memory and helps celebrate the hard work, planning, and determination that went into achieving your goal.Best For:
• Adirondack 46ers
• White Mountains of New Hampshire
• Any mountain or milestone you can think of! Just let us know in the order form.Examples:
Designs from real mountain photos! Shop flags for all 46 high peaks and more here.
Product Features -Made with 100% lightweight polyester. Designed with durable double plain stitched edges and side tunnel for hanging. Size: 36''x 24''Care Instructions -Machine wash separately: cold (max 30C or 90F), gentle cycle. Non-chlorine: bleach as needed. Tumble dry: low heat. Do not iron or dry-clean.
Hiking Itinerary Example
What You Receive:
Our custom itineraries provide a detailed plan for your hiking day, including route information, estimated hiking times, parking recommendations, trailhead details, key landmarks, water sources, and contingency options.Why It Matters:
A well-planned itinerary helps maximize your time in the mountains while reducing uncertainty and last-minute decision making. Knowing where you're going and what to expect allows you to focus on enjoying the experience. It helps you stay confident and controlled when nature throws obstacles in your way.Best For:
- First-time Adirondack visitors
- Weekend hiking trips
- Lake Placid and Keene Valley adventures
- High Peaks objectives
- Hikers seeking alternative routes from AllTrails' optionsExample:
Fitness Training Plan Example
*** All fitness plans are based on a 4-5 day per week workout schedule. Your plan will be adjusted depending on your fitness experience and preferences ***What You Receive:Our fitness plans are designed to help prepare hikers for their upcoming objectives through structured strength, endurance, mobility, and conditioning recommendations tailored to their experience level and goals.Why It Matters:Hiking in the mountains demands more than simply walking long distances. Building strength, endurance, and stability beforehand can improve performance, reduce injury risk, and make challenging hikes more enjoyable.Best For:- New hikers building confidence
- Adirondack 46er candidates
- Winter hiking preparation
- Long-distance objectives
- Hikers returning after time away from the trail
Pricing Guide / Order Form
Check the boxes for what you need, and then click "Submit". We will reach out to you with your final price and payment link within 24 hours (usually much sooner). No hidden fees. No fearmongering.
Check the boxes for what you need, and then click "Submit". We will reach out to you with your final price and payment link within 24 hours (usually much sooner). No hidden fees. No fearmongering.
About Us
Even as kids, we were always drawn to the outdoors. Our families have deep roots in New York, and many of our favorite memories were made hiking, camping, and exploring the Adirondack Mountains. What started as two kids wandering local trails has evolved into a passion for mountain climbing, backcountry adventure/camping, and winter mountaineering.
Over the years, we've climbed mountains throughout the United States and even completed an alpine ascent in the Swiss Alps. Closer to home, we've spent countless hours exploring the Adirondack High Peaks, learning firsthand what it takes to safely and successfully plan trips in one of the Northeast's most rewarding mountain ranges.
Today, we use that experience to help others enjoy the Adirondacks with confidence. Whether you're looking for an Adirondack hiking guide, a custom High Peaks trip itinerary, help planning your first Adirondack 46er adventure, or recommendations for hiking near Lake Placid and Keene Valley, our goal is simple: help you spend less time researching and more time enjoying the mountains.
We create personalized hiking itineraries, route recommendations, gear lists, fitness and nutrition plans, weather reports, summit flags, and other trail information tailored to your experience level and goals. From first-time visitors to aspiring 46ers, we're here to help make your Adirondack adventure memorable, safe, and well-planned.
Current 46er Progress:ADK John: 11/46
ADK Damon: 9/46WE ARE ASPIRING 46ERS WITH MULTIPLE SUMMITS OF MARCY, GIANT, ALGONQUIN, COLDEN, AND MORE!!!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does it take for my order to be processed and delivered?
Orders for single-day trips will require about 12-18 hours of processing before being delivered to your inbox. If you needed guiding on a multi-day trip, it may take 1-2 days. Your order will most likely arrive ahead of both of these deadlines.
2. Do you only provide planning for Adirondack trips?
Actually, we can provide useful information for almost any route and trail in the United States. Our services are best accustomed to the Adirondacks as this is where we got our own hiking experience, but we're happy to help you work out the details on almost any outdoor adventure.
3. How will my order be delivered?
When you fill out a request form, an email address will be required. All documents and hiking plans will be delivered to that email address unless you tell us otherwise.
4. What's the best option for my first ever hike?
Our first hike ever was up Cascade Mountain, a simple 4.4mile out-and-back hiking route that gives you 360° views of the Adirondacks at the summit. We would suggest this to almost anyone as a first hike. There are few trail crossings and there are usually other hikers around, making it easy to find your way and make it to the top. If you prefer something shorter, we'd suggest Mount Jo or Coney Mountain, which also offer great views of the ADKs.
5. If I'm planning to bring my dog with me, would this affect my adventure plan?
Yes, but only slightly. Dogs require additional gear and safety precautions - just let us know if you plan to bring your furry friend and we will customize your plan accordingly.
6. Do you offer gear rentals?
At this time, we do not offer gear rentals. If the discounted gear on our store does not suit your needs, please consider shopping at the Mountaineer in Keene Valley or EMS in Lake Placid. They offer some gear rentals and have top-tier gear for purchase.
7. Do you offer guides for any other outdoor activities besides hiking/camping?
Yes, we're happy to provide information or planning services for fly fishing, whitewater rafting, skiing, and more. For general information on fishing, please check out the NYSDEC website here or Orvis' fly fishing conditions here. For general information on whitewater rafting, please check out the Adirondack Outfitters website here. Ski conditions are best observed at Whiteface Mountain's Weather Observatory here, or Gore Mountain's Conditions Report here.
Did we miss something?
We're happy to answer any questions that you have! Fill out the form and one of our teammates will respond within a few hours (likely sooner).You can also contact us via email at [email protected]
