Hurricane Mountain rises at the eastern edge of the Adirondack High Peaks, offering a perspective that few other summits can match. From its restored fire tower, you look west to the entire High Peaks region spread before you, and east across the Champlain Valley to the Green Mountains of Vermont. The mountain's position makes it a perfect viewing platform.
At 3,694 feet, Hurricane isn't among the 46 High Peaks, but it offers one of the most satisfying hikes in the region: challenging enough to feel earned, short enough for a half-day, and rewarding enough to bring you back again and again.
The Routes
Route 9N Trail (Most Popular)
- Distance: 5.2 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,980 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from Route 9N between Elizabethtown and Keene, this is the standard approach. The trail climbs steadily through mixed hardwood forest, with the grade increasing as you approach the summit. Several open ledges along the way provide rest spots with views. The final push to the summit is steeper but short.
East Trail (From Hurricane Road)
- Distance: 6.4 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
This route approaches from the east, starting higher but covering more distance. It's less popular and offers more solitude. The trails can be combined for a traverse with a car shuttle.
The Fire Tower
Hurricane's fire tower was built in 1919 and is one of the best-preserved in the Adirondacks. The 35-foot steel tower is open to hikers, and climbing it is strongly recommended—the views from the cab are significantly better than from ground level.
The View
From the tower platform:
- West: The entire High Peaks region—Giant, the Great Range, Marcy, Algonquin
- East: Lake Champlain and Vermont's Green Mountains
- North: Whiteface Mountain and the northern Adirondacks
- South: Dix Range and the southern High Peaks
On clear days, the view extends over 100 miles. This is arguably the best fire tower view in the Adirondacks, combining proximity to the High Peaks with the contrasting perspective of Lake Champlain and Vermont.
Planning Your Hike
Trailhead
The Route 9N trailhead has a large parking area, but it fills on busy weekends. The trail is well-marked with red DEC markers.
When to Go
- Fall: Peak foliage views are extraordinary—the valley colors combined with lake and mountain views create memorable panoramas
- Summer: Long days but often hazy; consider early morning starts
- Winter: Accessible with snowshoes; fire tower may have ice
- Spring: Trail can be muddy; check conditions
Tips
- Bring binoculars—the view rewards careful study
- Wind at the tower can be strong; bring layers
- The tower is open year-round but use caution if icy
- Lightning risk in exposed areas—check weather
Quick Reference: Hurricane Mountain
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Summit Elevation | 3,694 feet |
| Distance | 5.2 miles round trip |
| Elevation Gain | 1,980 feet |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Fire Tower | Yes (restored, open to public) |
Hurricane Mountain exemplifies what makes Adirondack hiking special: a challenging trail through beautiful forest, leading to a summit that delivers views far exceeding what the modest statistics might suggest. The fire tower adds historical significance and that extra elevation that opens up the full panorama. Whether you're a peak-bagger or just love a good view, Hurricane Mountain earns a spot on your list.
