Owl’s Head Lookout
September 20, 2020 | Elizabethtown, NY
Note: there is also the Owl’s Head Mountain Fire Tower in Long Lake and the Owl’s Head trail in Keene (which, to my knowledge as of writing this, is only open to the public M-Th.)
However, this hike log describes the Owl’s Head Lookout trail off of route 9N, open everyday.
The background: I was seeking a shorter hike that I could complete in the morning before leaving the park, since I had to head back home on this day. I had spent the previous 4 days enjoying a variety of hikes, but wanted to breathe in the mountain air one last time before hitting the road by noon.
Getting there: From Lake Placid: head east towards Keene on route 73. After about 15 miles, turn left onto NY-9N (if you reach Marcy Field, you’ve gone too far.) In about 5 miles, the trailhead parking lot will be on your right side; you’ll turn and drive down to a moderately-sized lot for a handful of cars.
The hike: At a little over 5 miles round trip, this mountain is a breath of fresh air and offers many characteristics of the traditional ADK terrain, while simultaneously being more gentle and forgiving.
I arrived at 8:30 AM, the second car in the lot this beautiful September Sunday. I gathered my pack and exhaled, as I knew this would be my last time on the ADK trails until… I didn’t know when (spoiler alert: I would return the following month.)
At the end of the lot, the North trail begins (the only trail I could see, also.) You’ll cross a small bridge and then follow the direction of the trail sign, where you’ll start your hike through the beautiful forest setting. Soon after, you’ll reach Slide Brook, another peaceful area as you continue on your way. After this section, you’ll gradually begin to gain some elevation, but it won’t be anything technical nor difficult. For the majority of the trail until you reach the summit, you’ll be primarily covered by gorgeous trees, shielding you from the elements but allowing you to enjoy their beauty as you make your ascent.
You’ll continue to follow the red trail markers until you reach a junction with a trail sign. The letters have worn off, but you’ll now follow the yellow trail markers about 0.2 miles to reach your destination (photo below.)
And then you’ll see it - that massive, sprawling summit, waiting for you. Including some pretty jaw-dropping views, in my opinion. Your views will include the nearby mountains also part of the Giant Mountain Wilderness, like Bald. I could have spent all day up here, no exaggeration. You are truly rewarded with just a liiiittle bit of effort. Wowww.
If only traffic didn’t await me…
Concluding notes: Two words: underrated gem. I could have spent hours here soaking in the summit sunshine or simply spending more time on the trail. I will definitely be returning, and perhaps consider approaching Giant from this way next time.
My recommendation for an ideal day and what you can pair this hike with:
If you arrive to the area in the afternoon and want a moderate, shorter trail - this is it. Same goes if you’re leaving and want to get a hike in, like I did.
Hurricane Mountain from 9N
Bald Mountain
Baxter Mountain
Lunch at Noonmark Diner
…the possibilities are endless!
