Est. 1892 · Forever WildMy LogbookSubmit a ListingSign In
AdirondackRegion.comExplore the Atlas
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — photo · Google Places
§ Attractions · Keene

Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower.

Historic Sites·NY 12932, NY·44.24°N 73.71°W

A sentinel of the High Peaks, offering sweeping vistas from its historic perch.

Rated4.9 / 5140 reviews · Google
Found inNY 12932, NY
Charted at44.24°N 73.71°Won the Atlas
Directions Visit the site
Historic Sites · KeeneEntry revised Aug 24, 2026
§ No. I · Field Notes

About Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower.

From the exposed, rocky summit of Hurricane Mountain, a breathtaking 360-degree panorama unfolds, stretching across the High Peaks, reaching out to the shimmering expanse of Lake Champlain, and culminating in the distant Green Mountains of Vermont. Standing at 3,678 feet, this prominent peak serves as the namesake for the surrounding 13,784-acre Hurricane Mountain Wilderness. The 35-foot fire tower itself is a testament to an earlier era of forest preservation, once serving as a critical lookout for spotting wildfires across this vast expanse of the Adirondack Forest Preserve. Today, it stands as a cherished landmark, inviting intrepid hikers to climb its steps for an even more expansive perspective. Accessing the Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower is an adventure in itself, with three distinct hiking routes leading to the summit. The East Hurricane Mountain Trail presents a challenging 2.7-mile ascent from Hurricane Mountain Lane, gaining 1,700 feet, with a particularly steep final section. Alternatively, the Hurricane Mountain Trail from Route 9N covers 3.4 miles and climbs approximately 2,000 feet, known for its mix of steep, rough terrain and more moderate gradients, recently rerouted with new footbridges. For a longer, yet generally more moderate climb, the North Trail from Crow's Clearing Trailhead stretches 3 miles, ascending 1,600 feet, and offers a gentler approach to the peak. While the tower's primary draw is its commanding views, the journey through the Hurricane Mountain Wilderness offers a deeper connection to the region's natural beauty. Hikers will find themselves immersed in mountainous uplands, with opportunities to observe local wildlife along the trails. The area is open for recreation year-round, welcoming visitors to experience its changing seasons, from vibrant fall foliage to snow-dusted winter landscapes. There are no fees to access the Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower or its trails, making it an accessible destination for all who seek to explore the Adirondacks' wild heart. Beyond the summit, the wilderness unit provides numerous other outdoor pursuits. Primitive camping is available at designated sites and lean-tos, including the Gulf Brook lean-to and the Biesemeyer lean-to near Lost Pond, all on a first-come, first-served basis. Miles of trails connect to other peaks such as Lost Pond, Weston Mountain, Little Crow Mountain, and Big Crow Mountain, forming loops like the 6-mile Nun-da-ga-o Ridge Trail across the Soda Range. In winter, these trails transform into routes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, offering a serene experience amidst the snow-covered pines. For those interested in Adirondack history and panoramic natural beauty, a visit to this enduring fire tower is a memorable journey.
§ No. II · The Particulars

Hours, facts & the front desk.

§ No. II

The front desk.

NY 12932, NY
Websitedec.ny.govInstagram@nysdecFacebookfollow
§ No. III · Getting Here

Where it sits.

Keene Region
The Address

Elizabethtown
NY 12932, NY

44.2353°N · 73.7101°W

Directions
Drive In From
New York City305 mi · 5h 30m
Albany137 mi · 2h 30m
Boston232 mi · 4h 15m
Montreal110 mi · 2h
Syracuse184 mi · 3h 15m
Buffalo344 mi · 6h 15m

Approximate by-car estimates from the metros most visitors come from.

§ No. IV · The Plates

Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower, observed.

7 plates on file
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — plate IPlate I — the leaderHurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — plate IIPlate IIHurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — plate IIIPlate IIIHurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — plate IVPlate IVHurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — plate VPlate VHurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower — plate VIPlate VIHurricane Mountain Fire Tower, Keene
§ The Pairings

Pair with.

Round out the day. Coffee on the way, where to eat, what else to see.

§ No. III

More to see.

Within ~25 miles
Keene Arts4.1 mi
§ Similar nearby properties
§ Editor’s Picks
within 10 mi

Make a weekend of it.

Closest editorial picks for a meal, a scoop, a pint, a bed, and a sight worth your time.

§ Your Adirondack trip

Save Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower to your trip.

Mark the places, trails, and lakes you're eyeing on one plan — your trip, taking shape as you browse. Free, thirty seconds, yours forever.

Unclaimed
§ For the Proprietor

Run this place? The page is yours.

Claim Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower to keep the hours, photos, menus, and particulars in your own hand — and answer inquiries as the house.

Editorial review · Free · The Register

Claim This Listing