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Hurricane Mountain Wilderness wilderness guide
Wilderness Area · NY

Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Hurricane Mountain Wilderness offers remote beauty in the Adirondacks, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts with its rugged terrain and panoramic views.

Wilderness Area14,9574+ Trails

Designation

Wilderness Area

Total Wilderness Area

14,957

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Hurricane Mountain Wilderness offers remote beauty in the Adirondacks, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts with its rugged terrain and panoramic views.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hurricane Mountain Wilderness is a 14,957-acre wilderness area located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. The wilderness is characterized by its rugged mountains, dense forests, and scenic vistas. The area is named after Hurricane Mountain, which features one of the most rewarding climbs and offers a fire tower at its summit, providing panoramic views of the High Peaks and surrounding landscapes. The wilderness is defined by diverse ecosystems, including hardwood and conifer forests and alpine summits. It is home to various wildlife species such as black bears, moose, and numerous bird species, which add to the appeal for wildlife watching. The area's history is enriched with early logging activities, but today it remains a conservation success story, preserving the natural integrity of the Adirondacks. Outdoor activities reign supreme here, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and winter sports attracting visitors throughout the year. It provides a more remote experience compared to more accessible parks, ensuring visitors can enjoy the peace and solitude of nature.

Field Guide · Wilderness Area
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Waterfall Wonders at Rainbow Falls, Keene★ 8.5⌖ 8 miHiking
Rainbow Falls

Waterfall Wonders at Rainbow Falls, Keene

Explore the scenic Rainbow Falls located near Keene, NY. This moderate 0.5-mile trail offers a chance to see beautiful cascades and rainbows, especially in spring and summer. Perfect for hiking, photography, and family picnics in nature.

Skiing the Trails of Mount Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid★ 8.2⌖ 8 miCross-country Skiing
Lake Placid

Skiing the Trails of Mount Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid

Explore the groomed trails of Mount Van Hoevenberg in Lake Placid, New York. Suitable for all skill levels, enjoy cross-country skiing across varying terrains. This winter destination is busy in the season and offers a unique chance to connect with the area's Olympic history.

Cross-country SkiingView Details→
Charming Waters of Rainbow Falls★ 8.5⌖ 9 miHiking
Rainbow Falls

Charming Waters of Rainbow Falls

Explore Rainbow Falls near Keene Valley, NY, a stunning waterfall over 100 feet tall. A photographer's paradise, best enjoyed in spring and fall. Reach this tranquil spot on a hike-in trail, away from the crowds.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower - providing sweeping views from its peak.✦ Unique alpine ecosystems that support rare and diverse plant species.✦ Big Crow Mountain trails that offer scenic overlooks and quiet paths.✦ Remote camping spots for a genuine backcountry experience.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees or permits required to access the wilderness.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Keene
⌖ 2.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keene, New York

A tranquil haven in the High Peaks with opportunities for serious outdoor pursuits.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Keene Valley
⌖ 3.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keene Valley, New York

A tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering rugged mountain landscapes, serene lakes, and bountiful trails in the heart of the Adirondacks.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Elizabethtown
⌖ 7.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Elizabethtown, New York

A peaceful Adirondack gateway town offering classic wilderness experiences and easy access to backcountry hiking, paddling, and winter sports.

Late Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Lewis
⌖ 9.76 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lewis, New York

A quiet rural town offering peaceful outdoor experiences with abundant waterways and forested lands, ideal for paddling, hiking, and backcountry exploration.

Late Spring through Early Fall for paddling and hiking; Winter for snowmobiling and skiingExplore Town
Wilmington
⌖ 11.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Wilmington, New York

A classic Adirondack village offering authentic mountain adventure with access to rugged trails, clear lakes, and top-notch winter sports.

Summer through WinterExplore Town
Lake Placid
⌖ 12.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lake Placid, New York

A historic mountain town offering year-round adventure in the heart of the Adirondacks. Known for its Olympic legacy and stunning natural beauty.

Year-round, with peak activities differing by seasonExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hurricane Mountain Wilderness

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.