Hurricane Mountain from Route 9N 1/11/06

[runswithscissors]

From trail register to the junction with the north trail there was a variable base of snow over ice increasing in depth as elevation increased. Exposed tree roots and an icy base for the first third; quiet, soft snow pack for the next third; and soft, slippery, mashed potato snow through the steep, birch glade before the junction. The rocky summit had sporadic snow paths. There seemed to be more blow-down than I've ever encountered on this great trail. The heavy, wet snowstorm in late October took its toll here as well as on many other Adirondack trails.

We remained in snowshoes until the last 100 feet from the fire tower and then bare-booted to the summit. Trekking poles were helpful - especially for the descent on the sun-exposed steep sections and ice flows. Aggressive crampons on our snowshoes helped prevent accidental falls and uncontrolled slides.

The day turned out much better than predicted and we enjoyed terrific views under partly cloudy skies with temperatures possibly reaching the forties. I hiked the entire day in a LS silk weight and light shell. No matter what your trail approach, Hurricane Mountain remains an excellent day hike. Despite a round trip distance of only 5 miles, Hurricane has almost a 2000' ascent. That makes it a fairly good trainer with the feel and rewards of much bigger mountains. It was a great day to be outdoors sharing a great mountain with a great friend.

Pete Hogan

[AdkWiley]

Despite a round trip distance of only 5 miles, Hurricane has almost a 2000' ascent.

If your looking to add a little more distance try the north trail, its slightly longer but not as steep. It also sees far less traffic and there is a nice littel lean-to at the bottom