This Challenging Mountain Hike Is Worth The 360-Views Of New York's Finest Nature

"Wow," you think to yourself as you catch your breath at the top of Ampersand Mountain. "That was hard. But look at this view! Totally worth it!" That's what park rangers hope you'll think, when you reach the stony summit, some 3,353 feet above sea level. This bald patch on Ampersand's peak rises just above the tree line, treating hikers to a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding woods and mountains. You can even see the glistening surface of Middle Saranac Lake just a few miles away. Small surprise that a fire tower once perched on this same spot, and wild land firefighters would survey the vast horizon for smoke. This is just one potential stop when you explore the best of New York's mesmerizing Adirondacks on a scenic road trip.

The out-and-back trail up Ampersand Mountain is deceptively short, totaling only 5.4 miles. The park is open to hikers in any season and leashed dogs are also welcome on the route. But before you strap on your boots, coax Fido into the car, and drive over to Franklin County, be aware that "deceptively short" doesn't mean "easy." The Ampersand trail is considered a challenging ascent, and even experienced hikers should expect to feel the burn.

The Adirondacks are a rocky mountain range, and years of hiking have worn trails down to boulders and tree roots. Nothing about this route is technical, so you can leave ropes and crampons at home. Hikers also aren't traveling very far — as the crow flies — so you can expect to reach the top and return within a few hours. That said, Ampersand's slopes are fairly steep, and you'll have to scramble up more than 1,700 feet in less than 3 miles. Sturdy boots and well balanced backpacks are a must, and you'll have to carry up all provisions, such as water, snacks, and first-aid kits. If you haven't done this much before, here is the ultimate guide to packing the best (and safest) hiking gear, according to users.

Ampersand is a popular hike, especially in the warmer months, so you'll likely pass a good number of fellow travelers. The parking lot at the foot of the mountain has space for more than a dozen cars, and the park doesn't charge an admission fee. Note that there are also no restrooms anywhere on the mountain, nor is camping permitted in any form, so plan to be back to the trailhead by sundown.

Once you've "bagged" Ampersand, there are lots of other activities nearby. Depending on when you set out, you may find yourself with a full afternoon or evening to explore neighboring Saranac Lake, a picturesque village that draws road trippers to its art galleries and specialty shops. Three bodies of water in the area also share the name, defined by their location as Lower, Middle, and Upper Saranac Lake. They're popular paddling and swimming spots when the weather is warm.

This region is also popular in the winter, and rookie skiers flock to the Mount Pisgah Recreation Center for its gentle slopes, short ski lifts, and other family-friendly activities. Indeed, many hikers like to take on Ampersand Mountain during the snowy months. Cold and icy conditions do pose special challenges for the winter outdoorsperson, so here are some tips and tricks that make hiking in the snow a lot less intimidating.