Challenge: ADK Fire Towers · Indian Lake Region · Jessup River Wild Forest ·

Snowy Mountain

Snowy Mountain - Pure Adirondacks

On a cool and crisp early November morning, we began our trek on the 3.8-mile trail up Snowy Mountain. At 3,899 ft., Snowy is a challenging climb. The first part of the hike is an enjoyable walk in the woods, much of it along (or in!) a pretty mountain stream. The last mile and a half of the hike ascends steeply, gaining about 1,400 feet in elevation. There is a beautiful lookout point just before the summit that is a great spot for a break.

It was at this point that Evan and I pulled out our trusty Stanley thermos for a hot chocolate break. The hot drink was much appreciated as we gained elevation since more snow and frost were beginning to appear. Beyond this spot, the summit and its fire tower were just a short walk through the woods. The fire tower was in great condition and was coated with a very intricate layer of frost. Views from the tower include high peaks to the north, Indian Lake to the east, Lake Pleasant, and the Siamese Ponds Wilderness, among others. Here’s a fun ‘Dack fact: with the exception of a modification in the 1930s to make the tower higher, the 1917 steel structure is what remains standing today. The Snowy Mountain fire tower was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

Also, be sure to visit our Adirondack Fire Towers page if you're looking for more details and a full list of the towers. There's also information about the Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge if you're looking for a new hiking challenge to take on. 

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ADK Fire Towers

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ADK Fire Towers Long Sleeve Blue Mt. Fire Tower Mt. Colden Poster | Adirondack Fire Tower Poster | Bald Mountain Lookout

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Inspired by these iconic structures and the hiking challenge, we have created multiple products for our community.

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Keep it PURE

Remember to Leave No Trace! Buy a physical map, read it, plan, and prepare. Think about the NYS Rangers and medical personnel that exhaust themselves for a rescue that could have been avoided. Pack out your trash. Use a bear canister when primitive camping and cook away from where you’re sleeping. Do the rock walk to help reduce the impact on fragile alpine vegetation. Camp at designated campsites and never camp on or near summits.

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Each year, millions of people visit the public lands inside the Adirondacks. However you choose to spend your time here, we know the Adirondacks will hold a special place in your heart. We feel the same way. To Love Your Adirondacks is to protect the lands, waters, and communities we all know and love.

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Adirondack Fire Towers Guidebook
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Fire Towers Guidebook

Extensively revised in 2021, this popular hiking guide to fire tower trails enables hikers, history buffs, and others fond of Adirondack and Catskill trails to visit and learn about 30 historic fire towers.

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