Poke-O-Moonshine Mountain (also known as "Poko") has a commanding summit view which gets even better when the firetower is open. There's 360 degree views of the High Peaks, the Green Mountains in Vermont, Lake Champlain, and the Champlain Valley. It may be accessed by either of two trails which vary in steepness, with both mostly going through the Taylor Pond Wild Forest.

Key takeaways

• Distance for Observer's Trail: 4.9 miles round trip
• Elevation gain for Observer's Trail: 1,450 feet
• Distance for Ranger Trail: 3.5 miles round trip
• Elevation gain: 1,280 feet
• Summit elevation: 2,170 feet
• Hike includes trail junctions and an open summit, plus a road walk if a loop hike is done

Hiking Poke-O-Mooshine

The tower has been open to the public since restoration was completed in 1996, adding an on-site summit steward, interpretive panels in the fire tower cab, and opening hours. During the summer, open hours are typically Thursdays through Mondays. There are also selected weekends in the fall.

Near the junction of both of the below trails, a lean-to is present, and is a good option for camping not too far into the backcountry, and close to the summit for a sunrise or sunset from the lean-to.

A loop hike is possible with these two trails, with a 1 mile road walk being necessary.

The Observer's Trail

The 4.9 mile round-trip Observer's Trail starts further south than the Ranger Trail, with 1,450 feet of elevation gained total. This follows an old access road used by fire observers. The trail travels through the forest for much of its length, and many beaver ponds may be observed along the route. This is less steep than the original route. At around 2 miles in, you'll reach the junction with the Ranger Trail, where the two trails join and ascend steeply to the summit.

The Ranger Trail

The 3.5 mile round-trip Ranger Trail gains 1,280 feet of elevation from the trailhead in the Poke-O-Moonshine Day Use Area to the summit and back. This steep trail has been upgraded with stone steps, trail rerouting, and access to photogenic rock features. This is the most popular route up the mountain, but also the shortest and steepest. At roughly 1.4 miles in, you'll reach the junction with the Observer's Trail, and continue steeply up to the summit.

Poko in the winter

This is considered a fairly easy snowshoe when using the Observer's Trail because the incline is so gradual. The steeper Ranger Trail is more technically challenging. The trailhead is plowed in the winter, and crosscountry skiing both of the trails is not recommended. Be prepared for all winter conditions, and be sure to bring microspikes since the last incline is often icy.

Find more legendary trails in the Lake Champlain Region

Does Poko sound amazing, but a little more than you want to tackle right now? With the Lake Champlain Region’s extensive trail network, we can easily help you find a hike that fits!

Rock climbing

Poke-O-Moonshine's cliffs are considered one of the best climbing locations in the northeast, with a deep and old history of climbing. There are more than 250 climbing routes on numerous cliff faces. The 400-foot high Main Face is one prominent area, and there are many other faces with shorter single-pitch routes.

The cliffs are easily accessed from the parking area at the DEC Poke-O-Moonshine Day Use Area near the base of the mountain. Picnic tables, fire places, barbecue grills, and a privy are located at the day use area. Overnight camping is prohibited.

NOTE: DEC closes climbing routes on portions of the Main Face from April 1 through mid-summer to protect nesting peregrine falcons and their chicks. Learn more about peregrine falcons and Adirondack rock climbing.

Ice climbing

When the weather and conditions are right it's some of the best, and most accessible, ice climbing in the Adirondacks.

How to get there

The Ranger Trail: From the intersection of Route 9 and Route 9N in Keeseville, follow Route 9 south for 7.5 miles to the trailhead on the right at the Poke-O-Moonshine Day Use area.

The Observer's Trail: This trailhead is found on Route 9 approximately 4-miles south of exist 33 on I-87, just past the Ranger Trail parking area.