Owls Head Lookout via North Trail

The trailhead is conveniently located off Route 9N, situated between Keene and Elizabethtown in Essex County, New York. There is parking available at the trailhead.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you follow all Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all waste.

The trail offers a rewarding experience throughout the year. Fall is particularly vibrant with the changing leaves, providing a picturesque setting. In winter, it's suitable for snowshoeing, though microspikes are recommended for icy sections.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Owls Head Lookout via North Trail, as it is located on public Forest Preserve lands within the Giant Mountain Wilderness Area.

The trail begins on a dirt road before entering a young northern hardwood forest. You'll encounter several stream crossings with footbridges and stepping stones. As you gain elevation, the path becomes rockier, with some sections requiring stepping over rocks. The final ascent to the lookout features rocky outcrops and can be steep.

The trail is considered moderate. The first mile is relatively easy with a gradual climb. However, the difficulty increases significantly towards the end, with the last 0.5 miles involving a long ascent and the final 0.1-0.2-mile spur to the lookout being notably steep and potentially eroded. While rewarding, beginners and families with young children should be prepared for this challenging finish.

The trail offers several scenic points. You'll cross Slide Brook Bridge early on. The ultimate reward is the Owl Head Lookout itself, which provides spectacular, wide-open views of Giant Mountain, Bald Mountain, Rocky Peak Ridge, Hurricane Mountain, Green Mountain, and the Green Mountains of Vermont. There are also smaller look-off plateaus along the way.

Yes, the trail is suitable for winter hiking and snowshoeing. However, be prepared for icy conditions, especially on steeper sections, and consider bringing microspikes for better traction.

Yes, the route primarily follows the North Trail. After the Owls Head spur, the main trail continues towards the Giant Mountain lean-to and the summit of Giant Mountain.

Hikers often praise this trail for its excellent 'effort/reward ratio.' Despite the challenging final ascent, the breathtaking, wide-open panoramic views from the Owl Head Lookout are well worth the effort, offering extensive scenery and ample space to rest and enjoy the vista.