It is located in the town of North Elba in Essex County and in the High Peaks Wilderness Area[4] of Adirondack Park.

The first recorded ascent of the mountain was made on August 8, 1837, by a party led by New York state geologist Ebenezer Emmons.

[8] The mountain can also be approached from the southeast via an even steeper trail which begins at Lake Colden, which rises 2,350 feet (720 m) in just 2.1 miles (3.4 km).

Camping is prohibited above an elevation of 4,000 feet (1,200 m), hikers must remain on the trail in the alpine zone, and no dogs are allowed without a leash.

The Summit Steward program places guides on Algonquin and other peaks to both remind hikers of these rules and educate them about the ecosystem.