Trip report
Jul 12, 2024 — Lyon Mountain is located within the Chazy Highlands State Forest, a high-prominence peak set apart from most other hiking destinations in the Adirondacks, known for hosting a fire tower lookout. Apparently, there used to be a more direct trail that was damaging to the mountain, so a new one was built that meanders up very tame switchbacks to reach the summit. Switchbacks being incredibly rare for northeastern hikes since the trails are all historic ascents directly up the peaks, it made sense that this was new construction. I reached the trailhead from Chazy Lake Road, taking the good gravel Lowenburg Road suitable for any vehicle. Making a left from the trailhead, I followed a rocky old road converted into a trail, keeping an eye out for a sign marking where I should turn left off this section.
The Lyon Mountain Trail then ascended casually through a particularly lush forest, crossing a couple of bridges over streams. Ferns were strewn across the ground, and mosses grew on large boulders. The trail followed the typical progression from deciduous trees to coniferous, the lushness increasing as I ascended. There was only one lookout point along the way, available only because it’s where the old trail was carved into the face, and trees have not yet grown back to cover it.
Eventually, I saw the fire tower ahead. I was definitely concerned I wouldn't get any views, but fortunately I snagged a small window where the clouds dissipated when I reached the tower. The views were great from here. I could see Chazy Lake below, and with better conditions you can likely see Lake Champlain in the distance. The fire tower does not actually mark the true summit of Lyon Mountain. Instead, a social trail continues west through some boggy terrain, then south along an old road, which narrows into another social trail. You definitely want to locate the social trail because the terrain is boggy and covered in wet mosses, making travel slow. The summit is located off-trail, and I’m not certain I reached the actual highest point since the summit area is expansive and flat, but where I declared the summit was is good enough for me.