Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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Map of the Lake George area with the Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway highlighted in red
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| Route information | |
| Maintained by NYSDEC | |
| Length | 5.88 mi (9.46 km) |
| Existed | 1969–present |
| Major junctions | |
| South end |   US 9 / NY 9N in Lake George |
| North end | Peak of Prospect Mountain |
| Location | |
| Counties: | Warren |
| Highway system | |
| Numbered highways in New York Interstate • U.S. • N.Y. (former) • Reference • County |
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The Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway is a special road located in Lake George, New York. It's a type of road called a parkway, which means it's often very scenic. This road is about 5.88 miles (9.46 kilometers) long. It begins where U.S. Route 9 and New York State Route 9N meet. The highway then climbs all the way to the very top of Prospect Mountain. Even though the road has a special number, New York State Route 917A, it is not signed with road signs. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation takes care of this beautiful highway.
Driving Up Prospect Mountain
The drive starts in the town of Lake George, New York. You will pass through a gate as you begin to climb Prospect Mountain. The road is very pretty, with tall trees lining both sides. This highway goes over Interstate 87, which is also known as the Adirondack Northway.
After crossing the Northway, the road gets wider and you will see a tollbooth. Once you pass the tollbooth, the real climb up the mountain begins! The road has large, strong rocks along its sides. These rocks act like a guard rail to keep drivers safe. The highway curves around the mountain, offering many amazing views. You will find several special spots called scenic overlooks. These are perfect places to stop and enjoy the scenery. The road ends at the main peak of Prospect Mountain. From the top, you can see for about 100 miles (160 kilometers). On a clear day, you might even see the Green Mountains in Vermont and the White Mountains in New Hampshire.
History of Prospect Mountain
For many years, people used a special train called an incline railway to reach the top of Prospect Mountain. There was a house at the summit where people could dance and eat. Building this railway started in January 1895 and cost about $120,000. It was finished quickly, opening just six months later on June 15, 1895. However, the railway did not make enough money, so it stopped running in 1903. The land was later bought and given to the State of New York. Today, a hiking trail that goes up the mountain follows parts of the old railway path.
Building the Highway
In 1932, the building at the top of the mountain burned down. A steel fire tower was built in its place. For 30 years, people thought about what to do with the state-owned land. In 1954, New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey signed a law to build a highway up the mountain. Twelve years later, in 1966, Governor Nelson Rockefeller provided the money needed for the highway.
The Prospect Mountain Veterans Memorial Highway officially opened in 1969. It was dedicated to war veterans, honoring their service. This highway made it much easier for everyone to reach the 2,021-foot (616-meter) summit. From the top, you can still enjoy those incredible 100-mile (160-kilometer) views!
