This 2.6 mile round trip hike has an elevation gain of nearly 1500 feet.  The area around the 2653 foot summit of Hadley Mountain has had a history of forest fires. There were several in the early part of the twentieth century. The mountain is still slowly recovering.

One thing you'll notice on this hike is the many patches of bare rock that begin early in the climb. This is due to the thin soils left by all the fires.  The wide trail takes you to the ridge of the West mountain range. You then turn right and head North to the summit. Shortly before reaching the summit, you will see the old fire observer's cabin (now used by the summit steward). The fire tower is open, but good views can be had without climbing it. The Great Sacandaga Lake is the body of water to the South.

Hadley Mountain is part of the "ADK Fire Tower Challenge".

Trailhead: From Saratoga, take NY 9N going north. When you reach the village of Lake Luzerne, turn left at first light onto East River Drive.  Turn left onto Bridge Street. Turn right onto Stony Creek Rd (CR1).  After 3 miles, turn left onto Hadley Hill Rd. Continue for 4 miles. Turn right onto Tower Rd (gravel road). The parking area is on the left after 1.5 miles.

Hadley Mountain view (courtesy of Andy Arthur)

Map courtesy of AndyArthur.org