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 Reporter |
Summary: The area around 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. Trailhead: From Saratoga, take Rte 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. (Lat:43.374 Lon:-73.95) Trail Guides for Hadley Mountain: 50 Hikes in the Adirondacks by Barbara McMartin (Backcountry Guides) Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: NYS DEC Region 5 Forest Ranger (518) 696-2893 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by George Senft, who has posted 26 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 8 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Matt on 4/5/2012 A little tough going up, wear good boots. A hiking pole helps up and down. Very windy at the top, but good views. No snow or ice left, just a little wet in spots. 
Reviewed by D-Pott on 3/12/2012 Really nice hike with perfect weather. The trail is mostly ice but you can usually get enough traction on the sides in snow or spotty grass. I took my three kids (7,5,3) and they made it all the way to the fire tower. We'll definitely be doing this climb a few times during the year!
Reviewed by BC on 2/26/2012 Beautiful area, just driving in was amazing. There was a little snow on the trail which made it slippery and tough to climb and really hard to come back down but it was gorgeous. CA's GPS tip worked pefectly, definitely the way to go, but Tower Rd is pretty rough, so be warned. Overall a great day hike.
Reviewed by CA on 10/15/2011 Beautiful fall hike. I was glad to have my hiking boots as the trail was very wet from recent rains and got even wetter when it started to pour as I made my way down. The trail is basically a stream bed for much of the way, or it was today. I took about an hour and a half to the summit, which I chalk up to the slippery conditions and the fact that I'm not in any particular shape. The view of Great Sacandaga Lake was lovely even in the rain. GPS tip: use "Tower Rd, Hadley, NY" as the address and your GPS will lead you right to it. Once on the dirt road, look for the sign indicating trailhead parking.
Reviewed by DP on 4/29/2011 Good hike, just follow the creek up and you can't go wrong. Was disappointed that the top of the fire tower was locked, but you could still climb it for a spectacular view. There was a great view anyway, even without the tower. You might think the road to the trail head has a sort of Texas Chainsaw Massacre feel to it, but don't worry, you're on the right rd. Just a little creepy, but it was definitely worth the drive out.
Reviewed by Rich on 4/28/2011 Hadley is my favorite. Short, steep and to the point. A great starter to get in shape for the High Peaks, or a final destination to get away for the day. Luzerne is gorgeous. Here's a link to my photos. http://www.didyouweekend.com/hadley-mountain-fire-tower/
Reviewed by cindy on 9/7/2010 Great view at top..took hour up..45 down..going back..have lunch at the top..great exercise
Reviewed by Mike on 9/6/2010 Hiked today, 9/6/10. Was very crowded, being Labor Day I guess, the parking lot was overcrowded, and had to park on a side of the road. The hike is pretty strenuous going up, but manageable, went up in ~50 min, down ~35min (and I'm averagely fit 40 yo male). There isn't much to see on ascent, it's all in the woods, pretty much until you all the way at the top. The view from the top was great, but should be alot better come fall. Carry alot of water. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: New York Hiking, New York Trails, New York Hikes, Saratoga County Hiking, Saratoga County Trails, Saratoga County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
