On a mild November day we drove to Keene Valley hoping to stretch our legs in the high peaks. However, we had no interest in heading into high elevations where we would surely find ice and snow. Instead we decided to climb Rooster Comb - a smaller peak near Keene Valley.
The trail was well trodden, but not eroded and we did find some snow and ice as we climbed in elevation but it wasn't enough to warrant using the micro spikes. With no leaves remaining on the trees, we were treated to constant views as we climbed.
At the top, we enjoyed the clear view of Giant and Hurricane Mountains to the east and the Great Range to the west. There were some clouds hanging above the highest peaks and blocking a view of Marcy but otherwise we were treated to blue skies.
On the descent we followed a spur trail to a ledge overlooking Keene Valley where we ate our lunch before making the steady decline back to the car. It was a fantastic hike that I'm sure we will repeat in other seasons as well!