The best walks and hikes in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness
4.6
(50)
1,558
hikers
71
hikes
Hikes in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness are characterized by mountainous uplands and rugged terrain within New York's Adirondack Park. The landscape features dense hardwood and pine forests, rocky summits, and numerous brooks. The area's main feature is the 3,694-foot Hurricane Mountain, which offers routes with significant elevation gain leading to its bare rock summit and a historic fire tower.
Best hiking trails in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness
- The most popular hiking route is Hurricane Mountain South Trail — Hurricane Mountain Primitive Area, a 6.0 mile (9.7 km) trail that takes about 4 hours 15 minutes to complete. This moderate route involves a steady ascent to the summit.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Big Crow & Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge loop — Hurricane Mountain Primitive Area, a moderate 6.1 mile (9.9 km) path. The trail follows a ridge with continuous overlooks.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Hurricane Mountain via Gulf Brook Trail — Adirondack Park, a 5.5 mile (8.8 km) trail leading through forest, often completed in about 3 hours 30 minutes.
- Hiking in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness is defined by ascents to rocky summits, forested ridge walks, and paths alongside brooks. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from short ascents to more demanding loops.
- The routes in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 50 reviews. More than 1,600 hikers have used komoot to explore Hurricane Mountain Wilderness's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
24
hikers
4.52km
02:16
550m
0m
Hike the moderate 2.8-mile Hurricane Mountain Trail for rewarding 360-degree panoramic views from its summit and historic fire tower.
4
hikers
1.07km
00:27
140m
0m
Hike the Big Crow Mountain Trail for spectacular Adirondack views from its open rock face summit, a quick 0.7-mile easy ascent.
Sign up for free
3
hikers
3.38km
01:44
510m
0m
The East Hurricane Trail offers a classic Adirondack ascent, leading you through varied terrain to the open summit of Hurricane Mountain. You'll start on a singletrack that gradually steepens, eventually becoming a rocky scramble. Along the way, enjoy scenic views from ledges, culminating in breathtaking 360-degree panoramas from the summit and its climbable fire tower, showcasing the High Peaks, Lake Champlain, and the Green Mountains of Vermont.
This moderate hiking route covers 2.1 miles (3.4 km) with a substantial 1667 feet (508 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. It's a less crowded alternative to other routes up Hurricane Mountain, making it ideal if you prefer solitude. Dogs are welcome on the trail, but remember to keep them leashed. Plan your visit for a dry day to avoid muddy sections, and always check seasonal conditions before heading out.
Historically, this trail served as the route for fire tower observers, and you can still pass the site of their old cabin. Reaching the summit allows you to tick off one of the "ADK Fire Tower Challenge" peaks and is also part of the "Lake Placid 9er" list. The restored 35-foot fire tower on top provides an even more elevated perspective, making the effort truly worthwhile for those seeking iconic Adirondack views.
1.73km
00:28
40m
0m
Hike the easy 1.1-mile Gulf Brook Trail in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness, a scenic route through dense forests with numerous brooks.
3.5
(2)
130
hikers
9.65km
04:17
560m
560m
Hike the Hurricane Mountain South Trail, a moderate 6.0-mile route with 1,844 feet of gain, leading to panoramic Adirondack views and a fire
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Hurricane Mountain Wilderness
Tips from the Community
From the summit you get fantastic views south past the peak of Little Crow and the Gulf Brook tributary valley toward the High Peaks.
0
0
The hike to Big Crow Mountain is quite popular and makes for a nice short hike. Those looking to adventure further can continue along the ridge to Little Crow or circumnavigate the valley via the Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge loop. You can also hike south along the Gulf Brook Trail to Hurricane Mountain from here.
0
0
The Gulf Brook Trail winds steadily through the forested foothills of the mountains at a gradual incline until you hit the trail junction. This is also a great trail for snowshoeing and winter hiking. From the parking lot you can also access the trail to Big Crow and Little Crow Mountain.
0
0
Just east of the junction are campsites and a lean-to along Gulf Brook. This becomes the Soda Range Trail, which takes you past Lost Pond to Weston Mountain and Coal Dirt Hill. To the west you can follow the Gulf Brook Trail toward the Big Crow Mountain Trailhead, and to the south the trail ascends Hurricane Mountain to the fire tower.
0
0
The trailhead has roadside parking and a gravel lot across the street. The trail up Hurricane Mountain Trail is diverse, taking you past woods, rocks, streams, and marsh boardwalks. The trail is fairly gradual until the last third of a mile up to the fire tower, which offers stunning views.
0
0
The boardwalk takes you along the edge of the woods near a marshy area where you cross Spruce Hill Brook. The views and the trees here are especially beautiful in autumn.
0
0
The views are incredible up here, whether you climb up the fire tower or not! On a clear day, you can see many of the High Peaks and Vermont's Green Mountains from the summit.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any family-friendly hikes in the Hurricane Mountain Wilderness?
Yes, for families with children who are comfortable with a bit of a walk, the Big Crow Trailhead – Big Crow Mountain loop from Crow Clearing Parking Area is a great option. It's a relatively short 1.2-mile (2 km) loop that still provides a rewarding sense of adventure and nice views without a major climb.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on trails in the Hurricane Mountain Wilderness, but they must be kept under control and leashed, especially on popular summits and in parking areas. Always be prepared to clean up after your pet to help preserve the natural environment.
What are the parking options for the main trailheads?
There are several dedicated parking areas. The Hurricane Mountain South Trail begins at the popular Hurricane Mountain Trailhead on Route 9N. For a different route, you can use the Hurricane Mountain Northern Approach Trailhead. Another option is the Hurricane Mountain Lane Trailhead Parking Area for the steeper eastern trail. Parking can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so an early start is recommended.
Are there any circular walks or loop trails available?
The region has some excellent loop hikes. For a challenging day out with fantastic scenery, the Big Crow & Nun-Da-Ga-O Ridge loop is a favorite. This 6.1-mile (9.9 km) trail offers continuous overlooks along a rugged ridge, providing a classic Adirondack experience.
Is there a fire tower, and can I climb it?
Yes, the summit of Hurricane Mountain features the historic Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower. This 35-foot structure has been restored and is open to the public. Climbing the tower is a highlight for many hikers, as it offers an even more elevated, 360-degree panoramic view of the High Peaks, Lake Champlain, and Vermont's Green Mountains.
What kind of views can I expect from the summits?
The views are a major draw of this wilderness area. From the bare rock summit of Hurricane Mountain, you get spectacular 360-degree vistas that include the Adirondack High Peaks. Other trails, like those to Owl Head Lookout or along the Nun-da-ga-o Ridge, offer fantastic perspectives of the surrounding mountain ranges and dense forests.
How many trails are there in the Hurricane Mountain Wilderness?
There are over 60 designated hiking routes in the Hurricane Mountain Wilderness. These range from short, easy walks to challenging, full-day ascents, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness and experience levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about this area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers frequently praise the rewarding panoramic views from the summits, the well-maintained trails, and the iconic experience of climbing the historic fire tower.
Are there any less-trafficked trails for a quieter hike?
For a quieter experience, consider the Hurricane Mountain via Gulf Brook Trail. This 5.5-mile (8.8 km) route offers a more gradual and serene approach to the summit through a beautiful forest, often with fewer people than the main southern trail.
What is the terrain like on the trails?
The terrain is typical of the Adirondacks, featuring a mix of dirt paths through hardwood forests, rocky sections, and some steep ascents. Trails can be muddy after rain, and the final approaches to summits are often on bare rock. Proper hiking footwear with good grip is essential.
Are there opportunities for camping in the wilderness area?
Yes, primitive camping is permitted at designated sites and lean-tos throughout the Hurricane Mountain Wilderness. These operate on a first-come, first-served basis. It's essential to follow all Leave No Trace principles to protect the environment for future visitors.
What should I wear for a hike in the fall?
Autumn brings beautiful foliage but also unpredictable weather. It's crucial to dress in layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a fleece or insulating mid-layer, and bring a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Weather can change quickly, especially at higher elevations, so be prepared for colder temperatures and wind on the summit.
Most popular routes in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
