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Hadley Mountain – A Popular Climb in the Southern Adirondacks

Elevation: 2675 ft

Ascent: 1525 ft

Distance: 1.8 miles

Location: Tower Road off Hadley Hill Road off of County Route 1 north from Hadley- Lake Luzerne.

Hadley Mountain is very popular for many reasons. Not only is the summit open with good views to the east, south (including the Great Sacandaga Lake), and west, but it also has a restored fire tower which allows great views in all directions.   The trail is never very steep and is in generally good condition.  During the summer there may be a summit steward to greet you and answer your questions.  

The trailhead has good parking for more than dozen cars.   It is reached by finding your way to Lake Luzerne (NY route 9N), then crossing the Hudson to the village of Hadley.   Turn north onto Saratoga route 1 for about 3 miles to Hadley Hill road, turn left and go uphill for 4.6 miles to Tower road (small sign on the left).   Tower road is an excellent dirt/gravel road that is often plowed and sanded in the winter.   It leads to the obvious trailhead parking lot.

The lower part of the trail switches back and forth across a stream.   After the third crossing, where the stream usually is no longer running water, the trail contours up across the hill side and proceeds with switchbacks following the path of least resistance to the ridge line above.  Upon gaining the ridge, you have a short time of easy walking to rest befor the final push to the summit.   Beyond this point, you will start to encounter many view points.   Take your time and enjoy this beautiful section of the trip.  The view is of the peaks to the north was taken from the tower.

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NOTE: For a more complete description of the trail, please see ADK's GUIDE to ADIRONDACK TRAILS - Southern Region, pp 33-35.

Have a great hike!
Bob Goodwin