Mount Arab is a fire tower peak that's a short drive to Piercefield from Tupper Lake. This relatively easy hike is also a popular snowshoeing destination. From the parking area, cross the main road and sign in at the trail register that's located just up the trail.

The well-marked path is moderately steep for the bulk of the hike but there are short, steep sections. The trail follows the northern ridge of the mountain and keeps the steeper slopes off to the hiker's right.

Before long, hikers will see a small cliff on their left that they will soon be on top of. From there the trail moderates nicely before topping out on the open summit. Be sure to climb the fire tower for some outstanding views you can't get from the summit itself.

Aside from the short, icy sections that typically appear under low snow conditions, Mount Arab makes for an enjoyable snowshoe trip. Expect to find the trail nicely packed soon after a winter storm.

Mount Arab is part of the Tupper Lake Triad.

Trailhead: From the intersection of Route 3 and Route 30 in the village of Tupper Lake, follow Route 3 toward Piercefield. In about 7.25 miles, turn left on Conifer Road and follow it for almost 2 miles to Mount Arab Road, on the left. Follow that road for about 1 mile. The trailhead is on the left; parking is on the right.

Elevation: 2,525 feet

Ascent: 750 feet

Distance: 1 mile

Find out more

Read the blog, Mount Arab: A Fire Tower Peak, for trail information and the museum.

Winter

Mount Arab is a fire tower peak that's a short drive to Piercefield from Tupper Lake. This popular summer hike has become a very popular snowshoe destination as well. From the parking area, cross the main road and sign in at the trail register that's located just up the trail.

The well-marked path is moderately steep for the bulk of the hike but there are short, steep sections. The trail follows the northern ridge of the mountain and keeps the steeper slopes of to the hiker's right.

Before long, hikers will see a small cliff on their left that they will soon be on top of. From there the trail moderates nicely before topping out on the open summit. Be sure to climb the fire tower for some outstanding views you can't quite get from the summit itself.

Aside from the short, icy sections that typically appear under low snow conditions, Mount Arab makes for an enjoyable snowshoe trip. Expect to find the trail nicely packed soon after a winter storm.

Elevation: 2,525 feet

Ascent: 750 Feet

Distance, round-trip: 2 miles

Approximate time, round-trip:

Families with kids: 2.5 hours

Experienced snowshoers: 2 hours

Out-of-shape snowshoers: 2.5 hours

Directions to the trailhead: From the intersection of Route 3 and Route 30 in the Village of Tupper Lake, follow Route 3 toward Piercefield. In about 7.25 miles, turn left on Conifer Road and follow it for almost 2 miles to Mount Arab Road, on the left. Follow that road for about 1 mile. The trailhead is on the left; parking is on the right.

Difficulty (1=easiest, 5=hardest): Two. This hike is good for a beginner snowshoe, but it can be a bit steep and slippery.