Phelps gave the mountain its current name based on its appearance to a haystack,[4][5] and later cut the first trail to the summit in 1873.

[6] The summit is an alpine zone above the treeline, which offers a view of nearby Mount Marcy and Panther Gorge.

This approach involves steep, rough terrain, and is not recommended for backpackers due to the risk of falls.

This route is 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Upper Ausable Lake to the summit, with an elevation gain of 3,070 feet (940 m).

[8] Ascents of Haystack are sometimes combined with several other peaks, including Marcy, Basin, Saddleback, or the Great Range.