Debar Mountain Wild Forest · Saranac Lake Region

Loon Lake Mountain

Heading out? Conditions change fast and help can be hours away. What to bring ↓

Distance~5.9 miRound trip
Summit~3,330 ftElevation
Ascent~1,700 ftTotal gain

Loon Lake Mountain is part of the fire tower challenge, and what can be seen from the peak's rock face is beautiful and serene. Like most of the other fire tower peaks, it looks out mostly over nearby lakes, with Loon Lake the closest and the High Peaks off in the distance to the east.

The trail

The trail begins on a wide, unused forest road and follows it gradually through a deciduous forest for a couple of miles. With about one mile left, the trail becomes steeper and narrower as it enters conifer forest. Continue up through these woods for the final and steepest section to the top. The trail as it stands opened to the public in 2013.

The fire tower

Difficulty: Moderate
Fire tower: Closed to the public
The trail: Old forest road to start, then steeper through conifer forest for the last mile
Land unit: Debar Mountain Wild Forest

Trailhead and map

From Saranac Lake, drive through Bloomingdale on Route 3 and turn left on Route 26 toward Loon Lake. From the town of Loon Lake, follow Route 26 for 4.8 miles. The trailhead and parking lot are marked by a sign on your left.

Trail resources

Conditions: Conditions change fast. Check current trail conditions before heading out.
Reading: Hiking Fire Lookouts: New York, a guide to 85 fire tower hikes across the state. Affiliate link: as an Amazon Associate, Pure Adirondacks earns from qualifying purchases.

Adirondack fire towers Adirondack hiking

Before you go

Adirondack weather turns quickly, cell service is unreliable, and help can be hours away. Pick a plan that fits your group's fitness and experience.

Layers and rain gear, even in summer. Skip cotton
A headlamp, so you are not relying on your phone
A map and compass, or navigation that works offline
More food and water than you expect to need, plus first aid
In cold months, carry traction. In the Eastern High Peaks, skis or snowshoes are required when snow is 8 inches or deeper
Staying overnight in the Eastern High Peaks? A bear-resistant canister is required from April 1 to November 30
Leave your route and return time with someone
Check the forecast and current conditions, and know when the sun sets
Turn back if weather worsens, someone is exhausted, or dark is coming

Plan on getting yourself out. Rangers can be hours away, cell service can't be counted on, and every rescue puts other people at risk. If someone is seriously hurt, lost or in danger, don't wait. Call 911 or DEC Forest Ranger Dispatch at 833-NYS-RANGERS (833-697-7264). Save that number before you leave. Read DEC's Hike Smart NY guidance and current Adirondack backcountry conditions.

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