• Distance: 3.1 mile loop or 2.8 miles out and back

• Trail rating: Strenuous

• Elevation Gain: 1,345 feet

Crane Mountain is a fantastic, short Adirondack hike if you're looking for a fun climb to panoramic views of the hills around the lower Adirondacks.

The trailhead to Crane Mountain offers two options to the summit.

1. A strenuous 1.4 mile climb directly up the mountain. It's more reminiscent of a rock scramble than a casual hike in the woods and ends at a 30ft wooden ladder just before you reach the summit.

2.. The second option is a tamer 3 mile trail that passes around Crane Mountain Pond before ascending steeply for the last 0.5 miles to the summit. If you choose this option, it's helpful to download offline AllTrails Maps so you don't miss any turns.

Both trails originate at the same trailhead, so you can hike them as a loop or choose one to take out-and-back.