Hiking to Coney Mountain's summit, complete with a 360 degree view, is a must-do in the Tupper Lake area. The waters of Tupper Lake can be seen to the north as well and the wooded hills of the Horseshoe Lake Wild Forest to the west. Located right on the border of Hamilton and Franklin counties, Coney is an outstanding bang-for-your-buck mountain, and a part of the popular Tupper Lake Triad Hiking Challenge.

For the adventurous, Coney Mountain can be hiked at night for some spectacular stargazing. Tupper Lake is famous for its dark skies and fantastic celestial views. 

Key takeaways

• Distance: 2 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 560 feet
• Mountain elevation: 2,267 feet
• Hike includes an exposed summit

Hiking Coney Mountain

The trail is rocky, so footing is a bit rough in areas. Following the well-marked trail, you will sweep your way around the steep western slopes of the mountain. As the trail steepens a bit, it continues to contour its way around to the northern slopes of the mountain and then meets up with the original trail just below the summit.

The final approach is over slab rock, no scrambling is necessary. The views start to open up with Goodman Mountain, also part of the Tupper Lake Triad, to the north, and Mount Morris to the northeast. It’s a complete panoramic view.

Coney Mountain in winter

Coney makes for an excellent snowshoeing trip. With typical heavy snow and ease of access, this is a popular destination in winter. However, expect the chance of heavy winds and cold wind-chills once you are on the mostly tree-less summit.

Due to steepness of the trail, this mountain is not recommended for cross-country skiing, but bring your snowshoes and microspikes, and be prepared for all winter conditions.

Discover more trails in Tupper Lake

Does Coney sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? No need to stress, with endless mountains, lakes, and waterfalls to visit in the Adirondacks, we are sure we can help you discover a trail that’s just right!

Stargazing 

Coney Mountain is known as one of the most popular stargazing spots in the Tupper Lake area. Coney provides endless views of the night sky with the 360 degree rock face. It is one of the most highly photographed areas, and is popular for astrophotographers. Other local stargazing spots include Moody Flow, the parking area at Rock Island Bay, and Horseshoe Lake. 

For the adventurous, Coney Mountain can be hiked at night for some spectacular stargazing. Tupper Lake is famous for its dark skies and fantastic celestial views. 

How to get there

From the intersection of Routes 30 and 3 in Tupper Lake, continue on Route 30 South toward Long Lake for 10.3 miles to the parking area on the right. The parking area is just off the road, up a little hill. There is not a ton of space in the lot, but the road has wide shoulders that can accommodate overflow.