The Hadley Mountain Trail is a popular, moderate 3.6-mile round-trip hike located in the southern Adirondacks. The trail offers a rewarding climb with panoramic views from the summit’s restored fire tower. The hike provides a mix of steep and gentle sections, passing through a landscape marked by bedrock, boulders, and cliffs, all shaped by the area’s history of forest fires. The summit delivers breathtaking views of the Great Sacandaga Lake to the south, along with scenic vistas in all directions, especially from the fire tower.

Photo by Dan Novak.

Photo by Karina Benninger.

Explore Hadley Mountain

The Hadley Mountain Trail is part of the Wilcox Lake Wild Forest and traverses public Forest Preserve land. Starting from the trailhead, hikers immediately begin a moderate ascent, following red markers through the woodland.

3.6 mi

2.5 hours

1,525 feet

Moderate

43.374° N, 73.951° W

El. 2,653 ft

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Parking is available at the trailhead on Tower Rd, accessible via Hadley Hill Rd and Eddy Rd.

43.3737578,-73.9503734

Hadley Mountain Trailhead

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The trail includes interesting boulders, cliffs, and bedrock, a result of the mountain’s recovery from early 20th-century forest fires. The summit features a restored 40-foot fire tower built in 1917, offering expansive views for those who climb it. Even without ascending the tower, hikers can enjoy stunning views of the Great Sacandaga Lake and the surrounding mountains.

— Paul Laskey, The Fire Observation Tower of New York State

Before embarking on your hike up Hadley Mountain, it’s important to be aware of a few key rules designed to protect the environment and ensure the safety of all hikers. By following these guidelines, you help preserve the natural beauty of the mountain and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts.

In the early 20th century, Hadley Mountain and parts of the West Mountain Ridge were severely impacted by wildfires in 1903, 1908, 1911, and 1915. To protect the area and monitor fire activity, a 40-foot steel fire tower was erected on Hadley Mountain in 1917, originally from Ohmer Mountain. The tower served as a fire lookout until its closure by the DEC in 1990. Over the years, various observers manned the tower, including notable figures like William Madison, John Briner, and George Vickary.

In 1995, the Hadley Mountain Fire Tower Committee collaborated with the DEC to restore the tower and the observer’s cabin. Restoration efforts included replacing windows, stairs, landings, and other materials, many of which were flown to the summit by helicopter. The restoration continued through the late 1990s, with repainting in 1998 and roof replacement in 2000. Thanks to these efforts, the tower remains a prominent feature of Hadley Mountain, offering visitors stunning views from the summit.

Follow the Hadley Mountain Fire Committee on Facebook.

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The Lake Bonita Loop is a 1.7-mile trail located within Moreau Lake State Park, offering a moderate hike through lush woodlands. The loop encircles Lake Bonita, providing hikers with peaceful views and several benches to pause and take in the natural beauty. With a rich history tied to Mount McGregor, including its connection to Ulysses S. Grant and past uses as a luxury resort and correctional facility, the area has evolved into a hub for outdoor recreation. This short but rewarding hike is perfect for those seeking both scenic beauty and a glimpse into the area’s fascinating past.

Photo by Friends of Moreau Lake State Park.

Photo by Becky Gurney.

A Scenic & Gentle Journey

The Lake Bonita Loop offers a scenic, moderate hike in Moreau Lake State Park. Starting with a downhill walk toward the lake, this 1.7-mile loop circles Lake Bonita with views from several benches along the path. While the loop is mostly gentle, be prepared for a short but steep incline on the way back to the parking lot.

1.7 mi

∼ 45 min

Gain 45 ft

Moderate

43.204° N, 73.768° W

El. 855 ft

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Located off Corinth Mountain Rd after the intersection with Wilton Rd. The parking area is on the right side, about 0.5 miles from the trailhead.

43.2036753,-73.7677072

Lake Bonita Loop

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The 1.7 mile hike is enjoyable year-round and provides serene views of the lake, forested surroundings, and the wildlife that inhabits the area. Starting from the trailhead off Corinth Mountain Road, hikers descend toward the tranquil Lake Bonita, following a well-marked path that circles the lake. Along the way, you’ll find benches strategically placed for rest and quiet reflection by the water. The trail is relatively easy, with minimal elevation gain, though there is a short, steep section on the return to the parking lot.

— Mary Oliver, “The Moths”

To ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on the Lake Bonita Loop, it’s important to follow a few simple trail rules. These guidelines are designed to protect the environment, preserve the trail, and keep the area accessible for future visitors of Moreau Lake State Park.

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The Lake Bonita to Lake Ann Loop offers a 3.7-mile hike through Moreau Lake State Park, perfect for those seeking a family-friendly trail. Beginning at Lake Bonita, the trail circles the serene lake before winding through forested paths toward Lake Ann, providing beautiful views and a quiet escape into nature. Along the way, benches are available to sit and take in the surrounding landscape.

Photo by Friends of Moreau Lake State Park.

Photo by Becky Gurney.

Explore Tranquil Waters & History

The loop’s short, steep sections add just enough challenge, and with the area’s rich historical significance—once home to Grant Cottage and the Mount McGregor Correctional Facility—this hike provides both natural beauty and a glimpse into the past. Ideal for hikers of all skill levels, it’s a great option for a relaxing outdoor adventure.

3.7 mi

1.5 h

Gain 440 ft

Moderate

43.204° N, 73.768° W

El. 855 ft

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Located off Corinth Mountain Rd after the intersection with Wilton Rd. The parking area is on the right side, about 0.5 miles from the trailhead.

43.2036753,-73.7677072

Lake Bonita to Lake Ann

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This moderate 3.7-mile trail offers hikers a peaceful walk around Lake Bonita before continuing through serene forested paths toward Lake Ann. Along the trail, you’ll encounter benches perfect for taking in the lakeside scenery. The loop also features short steep sections, including a final incline on the return to the parking lot. This trail is dog-friendly, but pets must be kept on a leash at all times.

— Wallace Stevens, Notes Toward a Supreme Fiction

To ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience on the Lake Bonita to Lake Ann Loop, it’s important to follow a few simple trail rules. These guidelines are designed to protect the environment, preserve the trail, and keep the area accessible for future visitors of Moreau Lake State Park.

Are you ready to conquer the outdoors? Register for the Gateway 8 Challenge and explore Saratoga and Warren County’s most scenic hiking, biking, and paddling routes. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the trails, this challenge offers the perfect mix of stunning views and physical achievement.

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The Stonewall Trail in Moreau Lake State Park is a 3.2-mile loop that offers a peaceful and scenic hike through lush forests and along the Hudson River. This moderate trail is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a quieter path. Along the way, hikers will pass historic stone walls, remnants of the area’s early settlers and logging industry. With its serene landscape and rich history, the Stonewall Trail provides a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels looking to explore a hidden gem within the park.

Photo by Steven M.

Photo by Kristin Olmstead.

Historic Walls & Scenic Views

The trail weaves through lush forests and along the Hudson River, providing scenic views, rocky outcrops, and peaceful streams. As its name suggests, the trail features historic stone walls, remnants of early settlers and the region’s logging history.

3.2 mi

1 h 45 min

Gain 466 ft

Moderate

43.237,° N, 73.774° W

No Mtn. Summit

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Parking is available near the trailhead, with a dirt road leading up to it.

43.2370039,-73.7765749

Stonewall Trail

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The Stonewall Trail is quieter than many of the park’s more popular paths, making it an excellent choice for solitude and reflection. It also connects to other trails within the park, offering further exploration of Moreau Lake’s diverse landscape. Along the way, hikers encounter wildlife, seasonal wildflowers, and a diverse mix of ecosystems, including rich woodlands and wetland areas.

— Lorine Niedecker, Lake Superior

Before starting your hike on the Stonewall Trail, it’s important to review the trail rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. These guidelines help protect the natural environment, preserve the trail’s historical features, and maintain the park’s beauty for future visitors. Please follow the rules below to ensure a responsible and respectful hike.

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The Baker Trail to Old Moreau Overlook Trail offers a scenic 2.4-mile out-and-back hike through the Palmertown Range in Moreau Lake State Park. Starting at a lesser-known trailhead off Spier Falls Road, the trail ascends gradually, passing through beautiful fern-covered clearings and forested terrain.

Photo by Ryan Kramer Jr.

Photo by Moreau Lake State Park.

Sweeping Views & Forested Beauty

The Baker Trail to Old Moreau Overlook Trail is a moderately challenging trail that ascends steadily through a beautiful forest. It begins with a small stream crossing and continues through fern-covered clearings and rocky terrain. At the top, the overlook provides sweeping views of Moreau Lake and distant mountains, making it a popular spot within the park. The trail is well-marked with green discs and intersects with the Ridge Run Trail (marked in red), offering the option for an extended hike.

2.4 mi

1.5 – 2 hours

Gain 400 ft

Moderate

43.202ºN, 73.896ºW

El. 940 ft

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Parking is available at the trailhead off Spier Falls Road. Look for a state park sign marking the entrance to a gravel road leading to a small parking area.

43.24689,-73.72629

Baker Trail to Moreau Overlook Trail

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Though popular for hiking and running, the trail offers a quieter and less-used route compared to the main trails in Moreau Lake State Park. It takes hikers to the same stunning overlook while providing a peaceful and scenic back route through the Palmertown Range.

At 1.4 miles you’ll reach an open ledge on the left that overlooks Moreau Lake, and has views east to Vermont.

that has grown down around and into another tree, on that steep precipice; of heart, my mind, and me

— Cody-Rose Clevidence

Before setting off on your adventure along the Baker Trail to Old Moreau Overlook Trail, it’s essential to understand the trail rules that protect both the environment & fellow hikers. These guidelines ensure a safe & enjoyable experience while preserving the natural beauty of Moreau Lake State Park.

Are you ready to conquer the outdoors? Register for the Gateway 8 Challenge and explore Saratoga and Warren County’s most scenic hiking, biking, and paddling routes. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the trails, this challenge offers the perfect mix of stunning views and physical achievement.

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The Western Ridge Trail at Moreau Lake State Park is a 5.4-mile point-to-point trail offering a moderate hiking experience through forested paths, rocky terrain, and steep inclines. With an elevation gain of 1,020 feet, the trail rewards hikers with stunning views, especially from the Spring Overlook. The path is marked by yellow blazes and is well-maintained, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenge and scenic beauty. This trail is accessible year-round, with snowshoeing being a favorite in the winter months.

Photo by Jess McGuire.

Photo by Moreau Lake State Park.

Explore the Western Ridge Trail

The Western Ridge Trail offers breathtaking views of the Hudson River and surrounding forests. Hikers traverse through a variety of terrains, including rocky and steep sections, marked by yellow blazes. A 24% grade in some spots makes this a moderately challenging hike, but the views from the Spring Overlook are well worth the effort.

5.4 mi

2-3 hours

1,020 feet

Moderate

43.2684° N, 73.7148° W

El. 1,248 ft

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Located within Moreau Lake State Park, starting near the park’s entrance. Ample parking available.

43.2205102,-73.7649875

Moreau Lake State Park

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The Western Ridge Trail is part of the larger trail network within Moreau Lake State Park, offering access to a variety of routes for extended hiking adventures. This trail is popular year-round, with snowshoeing being a favored winter activity. Its well-maintained paths and recent improvements make it accessible to both seasoned hikers and those looking for a moderately challenging hike. The network of interconnected trails provides plenty of options for those seeking longer or more diverse outdoor experiences within the park.

— Henry David Thoreau, On Man and Nature

When exploring the Western Ridge Trail or other routes within Moreau Lake State Park, it’s important to follow park guidelines to protect the environment and ensure a safe experience for all visitors. These rules help preserve the natural beauty of the park while allowing hikers to enjoy the trails responsibly.

Are you ready to conquer the outdoors? Register for the Gateway 8 Challenge and explore Saratoga and Warren County’s most scenic hiking, biking, and paddling routes. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the trails, this challenge offers the perfect mix of stunning views and physical achievement.

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Spruce Mountain offers a scenic 2.6-mile round-trip hike, culminating in a historic 73-foot fire tower that provides panoramic views of the southern Adirondacks. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow, with a steady incline and a total elevation gain of 1,017 feet, making it moderately challenging. For those willing to climb the fire tower, a stunning view awaits, stretching over 100 miles on a clear day. Ideal for hikers of all ages, this trail offers both natural beauty and historical significance.

Photo by Sarah-Calzada.

Photo by Ryan Kramer Jr.

Tallest Fire Tower in the Adirondacks

The Spruce Mountain Trail is clearly marked with yellow DEC discs and begins with a sharp right turn after crossing a concrete bridge. The trail features a mix of moderate slopes and fern-covered clearings, leading to an open summit where the fire tower stands. Although the only view is from the top of the tallest fire tower in the Adirondacks, the panoramic vista rewards climbers with breathtaking sights of the surrounding mountains. Accessible year-round, the trail closes during big game hunting season (mid-October to early December).

2.6 mi

2 hours

Gain 1,017 ft

Moderate/
Difficult

43.202, -73.896

El. 1,972 ft

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*Please Note: The tower is currently closed by the DEC until a safety inspection can be performed on the structure.

Follow Northway to Exit 16, and take Ballard Rd, Corinth Mountain Rd, and Spier Falls Rd. From Main St., continue onto Stark Rd, Heath Rd, and NY-9N. Take Wells Rd, and the trailhead is on Spruce Mountain Rd after 0.2 miles.

43.2019308,-73.8957361

Spruce Mountain Fire Tower Trailhead

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As mentioned above, Spruce Mountain offers a scenic 2.6-mile round-trip hike, culminating in a historic 73-foot fire tower that provides panoramic views of the southern Adirondacks.

The Seasons played around his knees
Like Children round a sire—
Grandfather of the Days is He
Of Dawn, the Ancestor—

— Emily Dickinson

Before starting your hike on the Spruce Mountain Trail, it’s important to be aware of the trail rules to protect both the environment and your safety. The Spruce Mountain Trail crosses over both state and PLAN-owned land. Below are the specific rules you should keep in mind during your visit.

IMPORTANT: The trail is closed to public use during the regular big game hunting season in the Northern Zone (mid-October to early December).

Are you ready to conquer the outdoors? Register for the Gateway 8 Challenge and explore Saratoga and Warren County’s most scenic hiking, biking, and paddling routes. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or new to the trails, this challenge offers the perfect mix of stunning views and physical achievement.

Lace up your boots, grab your gear, and start your adventure today!