Ampersand Mountain, at 3352 feet, was originally covered with a heavy growth of trees. Verplanck Colvin, a surveyor, had the trees cut on the mountain summit so he could use it as one of his triangulation points. The summit today is bare, a classic illustration of what happens when trees on a mountain top are cut. Erosion sets in and not a tree, tree stump or even a plant is left on the summit. All the soil has washed away and nothing but bare rock is left.

The trail begins on the south side of NY 3, about 14 miles east of Tupper Lake. Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) signs mark the beginning of the trail which leads gradually through the hardwood growth for about a mile and then climbs sharply. The ascent from there to the top is abrupt, about 1800' of elevation in 2.7 miles.

As you reach the 3352 foot summit, you will be directed through huge glacial erratics and fissures in the summit. Keep your eyes peeled for yellow paint blazes and trail markers.  Once you break out on the bald summit you will be amazed as to the openess of the views.  Although you are not very high up, the particular location of Ampersand Mountain allows the summit visitor to see so much of the surrounding areas.

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