Owl’s Head Mountain – Firetower Near Long Lake
Owl’s Head Mountain is a mountain located near Long Lake in the state of New York. The trail features some streams, a couple wooden bridges, and the foundation of an older observer’s cabin. The view from the top of the firetower is phenomenal and for the distance, the reward of summiting this mountain is well worth it! Check out what you need to know before hiking Owl’s Head Mountain!
Summary of Owl’s Head Mountain
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: Roughly 7 miles round trip
- Elevation: 2,786′
- Hiking Time: Four hours or less depending on how much time you spend on the summit
- Elevation Gain: 1,532′ according to All Trails
- Photo Opportunities: The best spot to take photographs would be at the summit of the mountain at its lookouts as well as the top of the firetower cabin. Both of these locations provide the most photographic scenes!
Trailhead
The route that most hikers choose to take to the summit of Owl’s Head is the one at the end of Endion Lane near Long Lake. There is a large Adirondack sign that says “Owls Head Mt. Trailhead.” It is difficult to miss it. See below for a photo of the sign.
Beginning the Hike
After signing in at the trail register at the edge of the parking lot, begin your hike. The beginning of the hike is wide and rather straight with some muddy sections. There are bridges sporadically to get across these bogs. When you reach intersections make sure to follow the DEC signs and continue on the trail for Owl’s Head.
Two Miles – The Trail Gets Steep
After you have hiked for about two miles, the trail gets considerably steeper. Keep pushing onward and watch your footing. No part of the trail is technically difficult, but it is steep. Eventually you will go over a false summit and dip down to the foundation of an old observer’s cabin (see photo below).
Owl’s Head Mountain Summit
The summit of Owl’s Head has open edges to take in the views along with its firetower that is climbable. The views from the tower cabin are worth going up the stairs. See photos below for the vantage point.
Hiking Back to Trailhead
Owl’s Head Mountain is an out-and-back trail so descend the same trail that you ascended to the summit. Be careful to stay on trail, but it should not be that difficult.
Dog-Friendly
Owl’s Head is a dog-friendly hike. I brought my dog, Bodi, on this hike and he absolutely loved it. The trail length is reasonable and there are plenty of spots that are shady both on the trail and on the summit. Bodi even made his way up the fire tower (on his own accord), but I do not recommend this. Remember to bring extra water for your pup!
Fam-Friendly
This hike is family friendly. The distance is reasonable, there are no technical spots on the trail, and the views from the summit are pretty. The firetower is also a blast to climb up and you will get a better panoramic view of the surrounding Adirondack Wilderness.
clothes/Gear Worn on Owl’s Head Mountain hike
- Northface hat
- Northface t-shirt
- Reebok quarter zip
- Hiking pants
- Timberland waterproof hiking boots
- Apple Watch
Equipment/Food Brought
- 3L of water
- Extra food (granola bars, dog food for pup)
- Extra wool mountaineer socks
- Bandana
- Emergency tent and blankets
- Knife
- Waterproof matches
- Lifestraw
- First-Aid Kit
- Garmin InReach Satellite Device
Links to Related Hikes
RTW Note
Thanks for taking the time to check out this hike fellow Road Trip Warriors! This is a fun hike that is away from the crowds of the Adirondack High Peaks. The views from the summit are beautiful, the firetower is fun to climb, and it is a great day outside. I highly recommend this trek. If you found this post helpful, share it on your social media, share it with your friends, and plan a hike! Remember to leave no trace and stay safe!
