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Hiking in Crane Mountain: trails, map and practical info

Adirondacks • New York

5.0 Appreciated by 2 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2013Updated 23/06/2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
6 km
Elevation
457 ft
Duration
3h15
Max altitude
1,007 ft

Explore this moderate 5.6 km loop in New York's Adirondacks, featuring exposed granite slabs and 335 m of elevation gain rewarding you with 360-degree summit views of the High Peaks. Allow 2h30 to navigate rocky terrain and glacial erratics while discovering why Crane Mountain attracts hikers seeking accessible alpine vistas.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Crane Mountain? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

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Trail description

{
"remove_paragraph": "For hikers seeking additional mileage, the Fremont National Recreation Trail connects to the Crane Mountain area, extending your adventure into new territories within the Wilcox Lake Wild Forest. This option allows you to experience more of the region's diverse terrain and ecosystems, though it requires additional planning and preparation for the longer distance.",
"update_summit_section": "Reaching Crane Mountain's 3,254-foot summit reveals why this hike has developed such a loyal following among Adirondack enthusiasts. The exposed rock summit provides spectacular 270-degree views that stretch across the south, west and north. On clear days, the surrounding mountains dominate the vista.",
"add_dogs_warning": "Add to preparation section: 'Dogs are not recommended for this hike due to the mandatory wooden ladder sections on cliff faces. The ladder scrambles are not safe for canines and should not be attempted with dogs.'",
"update_time": "The estimated hiking time for the complete loop ranges from 3 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and time spent enjoying the summit views.",
"add_trekking_poles": "Add to equipment section: 'Trekking poles are helpful for navigating steep and rocky sections. In winter months, traction devices are often needed.'"
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
See price
Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
See price
Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Crane Mountain, Johnsburg, NY 12843, USA
GPS coordinates
43.5545106, -73.9784615
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The start of the trails at the Crane Mountain in New York can be accessed from the parking lot.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
43.5545106, -73.9784615
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

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FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
457.00 m
1007.00 m
3h15
No
No
Crane Mountain is open from sunrise to sunset. Plan your hike accordingly to ensure you have adequate daylight to complete the trail safely.
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Update : June 2026