Adirondack Park: Hadley Mountain
This family-friendly hike climbs to Hadley Mountain Fire Tower and showcases expansive views of the Adirondack High Peaks and Great Sacandaga Lake.
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Ascend 1,500 feet in 1.5 miles on this summit climb to Hadley Mountain, an Adirondack peak with wide-open views of Great Sacandaga Lake, the High Peaks, and Lake Champlain. Hike west from the small parking area next to Tower Road. Almost immediately, the trail starts its climb to a saddle south of Hadley’s summit. After 0.8 mile, crest the saddle and head north.
Next, the path wraps around Hadley’s southern slopes and visits the observer’s cabin before cresting the summit. On cloud-free days, you’ll catch views of the High Peaks, Vermont’s Green Mountains and Massachusetts’ Berkshires. Look southwest to find Great Sacandaga Lake nestled between wooded hills. A fire tower stands on the southern end of this broad mountaintop. Climb six sets of stairs to reach the top. Return to the trailhead following the same route.
-Mapped by Lisa Densmore, DensmoreDesigns.com
Trail Facts
- Distance: 5.0
Waypoints
HAD001
Location: 43.373916, -73.950445
Hike west from the small parking area next to Tower Road.
HAD002
Location: 43.370804, -73.965433
The trail crests a saddle southeast of Hadley Mountain and rounds to the north for the 0.7-mile stretch to the summit.
HAD003
Location: 43.3745, -73.967943
The trail veers left and cuts across the southern slopes of Hadley Mountain.
HAD004
Location: 43.376491, -73.971124
Turn right at 3-way junction and follow the short spur to the observer’s cabin.
HAD005
Location: 43.376501, -73.970633
This wooden cabin has a small covered porch, which offers respite from the wind on blustery days. Return to Waypoint 3 and turn right.
HAD006
Location: 43.37701, -73.970951
Hadley Mountain: On clear days, you’ll catch views of the High Peaks, Vermont’s Green Mountains and Massachusetts’ Berkshires. Look southwest to find Great Sacandaga Lake nestled between wooded hills. A fire tower stands on the southern end of this broad mountaintop. Climb six sets of stairs to reach the top.
Hadley Mountain Fire Tower
Location: 43.376783, -73.970939
Observer’s Cabin
Location: 43.376497, -73.970572
Hadley Mountain Fire Tower
Location: 43.376828, -73.970974
Hadley Mountain Fire Tower
Location: 43.376887, -73.970985
Summit Views
Location: 43.377015, -73.970851
Views of Great Sacandaga Lake
Location: 43.377015, -73.970899
