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Firetowers At one time fire observation towers played an important part as a first line of defense against the spread of foresSt fires. Volunteer civilian observers in the towers would report the appearance of smoke to forest rangers who would investigate the source. With the increase in population in the forested areas and improved aerial observation and satellite imagery, the importance of ground based fire towers waned. The only active tower in New York is the one at Sterling Forest and observers usually look south to New Jersey. New Jersey still maintainsf 2i fire towers divided into three division (A, B, and C) from north to south. Click here to learn more about the New Jersey fire tower system. Recently there has been a revival of interest in fire towers and their history. Some have been restored so that they can be climbed and so that visitors can enjoy the views. Others are slated to be restored in the future. The five towers that have been restored in the Catskill Park are staffed each weekend during the summer and once a month during other months. There are 25 fire towers in the Adirondacks in various conditions. For some time now the Glens falls Saratoga Chapter of the ADK has offered a Fire Tower Challenge and now also have a winter version. The challenge is to visit 18 of the 25 Adirondack towers and all 5 of the Catskill towerreward are the views from the towers and a patch. Lisa Lyons who is the owner of Morgan Outdoors in Livingston Manor, NY also offers a Fire Tower Passport program which rewards those who list a tower a patch and an entry into a drawing for prizes. The towers listed here are the ones I have actually visited. Some of the routes described are direct routes to the towers and back. Other routes are a loop or may include side trails to interesting places. More information can be found in the ADK publication Views from On HighKoch by John Freeman or in Fire Towers of the Catskills by Marty Podskoch. Clicking on
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Catskill 5 Elsewhere in New York New Jersey - District A Pick an Area: --Choose--
New York
The Catskill 5 Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower Quick Look - from Beaverkill Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 3.3 mi.
1171 ft.
GPSies
Park at the trailhead at the end of the Beaverkill Road. The public road dead ends at this spot and a private road continues to the Balsam Lake Lodge. Find the blue-blazed Dry Brook Ridge Trail and hike about .9 miles. At this point turn left on the red-blazed Balsam Lake Trail. After about .85 miles you will be at the summit. The fire tower at the top offers a spectacular view in all directions. Balsam Lake Mountain is the westernmost in the Catskill Park and the tower offers an unhindered 360 degree view. Retrace your steps back down the mountain to the Dry Brook Ridge Trail. After a right turn you are back at the trailhead in about .9 miles.
(The image above is the vertical profile for the out-and-back hike up the steep side) (The map shows the out-and-back hike up the steep side)
Hunter Mountain Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Spruceton Road) Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 7.2 mi.
12054 ft.
GPSies
Park at the large trailhead parking lot near the end of the Spuceton Road. This is the first of three parking lots and each is smaller than the previous. Find the blueblazed Spruceton Trail which starts as a wide, gated road which follows Hunter Brook. After crossing a small bridge across the brook, you will come to a hairpin turn to the right. Look to your right as you ascend this trail for imposing views of West Kill. After 1.7 miles, the trail turns right off the road but remains fairly wide and well kept. In the winter water from the spring can overflow the trail forming ice flows that can be dangerous. In the other seasons this spring may cause the trail to be muddy. At the spring is a nice lookout which offers views of Rusk Mountain, West Kill, and, farther off, North dome and Sherrill. The trail continues to the fire tower at the summit with the total distance being about 1.7 miles from the turn. A trail to the Colonel's Chair at the top of the Hunter Mountain Ski Area is clearly marked about halfway up the trail. Reverse your steps to return to your car. (The map shows the out-and-back route.) (The image at the left is the vertical profile for the hike.)
Overlook Mountain Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Meades Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 4.7 mi.
1409 ft.
GPSies
There are two trails that lead to Overlook Mountain and the sites found there. One trail comes up from Meads Road and is about 5 miles or less round trip. This trail is actually an access road to the WTZATV transmission tower and the state fire tower at the top of the mountain. The trail described Here starts at or near the Kaaterskill PA and then continues across The Catskill Center Platte Clove Preserve. This trail is almost 11 miles long round trip but offers the opportunity to visit Echo Lake. Finding the trailhead for the Meades Mountain Road route may be the hardest part of the hike. Head south and east from Phoenicia on Route 28. In about 4 miles turn east on Route 212. Route 212 heads generally east. Just passed Cooper's Lake turn left on Church Road. At the T turn left and then turn/bear right on Meades Mountain Road which may also be marked McDaniel Road. Drive for about 2.5 miles until a parking area appears on the left. Park your car and get on the access road to the tower. After walking about 1.75 miles on the road, the ruins of the Overlook Mountain House will be straight ahead. Look around the ruins. When done continue on the trail on the other side. The trail from Platte Clove and Echo lake will come in on the left. In about .4 miles you will be at the cabin. Turn left to go to the fire tower. On the way back walk behind the cabin and walk to the viewpoint that give Overlook Mountain its name. Follow the road back to your car. (The map above shows the parking area and the out and back hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Red Hill Fire Tower
Quick Look< - from Dinch/Coons Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 2.3 mi.
997 ft.
GPSies
Turn onto Rt. 55A in Grahamsville near the Rondout Reservoir. After about 2.25 miles look for Sugarloaf Rd. on your left. Continue on Sugarloaf Rd. for about 4 miles and look for Red Hill Rd. on the left. Make this sharp turn. Dinch or Coons Rd. will be on your left almost immediately. Continue on this road for a little over one mile. The road is not paved. It is a dead end and it gets rough enough that an SUV or a pickup might be a good idea. Park at the trail head. Look for signs to the trail and follow the yellow markers. After about .56 miles the slope increases slightly and increases again at .75 miles. After about 1.2 miles you are at the summit. Climb the fire tower for some nice views. Reverse your route. A quick, relatively easy hike with a reward at the top. (The map shows the parking area and the hiking route.)
(The image above shows the profile of the loop hiking route. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Tremper Mountain Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Phoenicia Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 6.1 mi.
2100 ft.
GPSies
The Tremper Mountain Fire Tower is believed to be the oldest of the reconstructed fire towers in The Catskills. It was originally constructed elsewhere in 1917 and then moved to its present location. The trail is mostly along an old road to the summit. It has many switchbacks which make the route Not as steep as it might be but also add length to the distance. Views of the surrounding mountains are easily has had from the fire tower. From Rt. 28 turn at the sign that indicates the village of Phoenicia. Continue straight through town until the sign for Rt. 40. Continue of Rt. 40 for about 3/4 of a mile. Pass the first parking area on your right. Park at the next parking area on the left. This area has a sign for the Tremper Mountain Fire Tower. Walk over three bridges and up a hill on the stone steps. Don't be surprised at the lack of a trail register at this point. The register is a little over a quarter mile on the trail. From here follow the well-marked red Phoenicia trail to the tower. The trail is an old road to the tower. It has many switchbacks which makes the incline quiet easy but lengthens the hike. It is possible to cut some of the switchbacks or bushwhack the entire way. BE CAREFUL! There are reports of timber rattlesnakes in this area! The trail eventually reaches a plateau and after a short hike and a short climb you will be at the fire tower. This tower is surrounded by trees until you get near the top. The views are nice but not as interesting as the ones from Overlook, Balsam or Hunter on a nice day. Retrace your trail and you will be back at your car. (The map above shows the parking area and the out and back hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Elsewhere Beebe Hill Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Osmer Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 1.7 mi.
400 ft.
GPSies
Beebe Hill State Forest is on Route 22 in Austerlitz. Turn north on Osmer Road and drive about 1.6 miles to Barrett Pond on the left. The access road to the trailhead is just north of the pond. After parking you may walk through the gate and use the road to the fire tower. You may also use the trail to the left of the information kiosk. The trail is marked with a sign that says "Fire Tower 1 mile" although the distance is shorter. The trail crosses two bridges over small streams on its way to the tower. The first half mile has a few steep sections but it switches back and forth several times. After .5 miles or so you will be on the flat top of the hill and a lean-to will appear on the left. Continue to the end of the trail. There you will find an observer's cabin, another building and the tower. The tower can be climbed and the cab is open all year round. Despite the fact that the hill rises only about 300 feet there are great views in all directions. The best views are to the west where the Catskills can easily be seen. (The map above shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Berry Hill Fire Tower
Quick Look - from County Road 10 Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 6.9 mi
770
GPSies
This hike begins at the Berry Hill Fire Tower and can end there. The hike described here goes south to Bowman Lake State Park which is beautiful. Take County Route 10A west from Norwich for 5.0 miles. Continue on County Road 10 for another 3.5 miles. Turn left on Tower Rd and drive .3 miles to the access road for Berry Hill Fire Tower on the right. Turn right on the access road and park in the small lot near the tower. The tower is being used for law enforcement radio communications and is off limits to the public. You can climb the tower to the locked gate to get a slightly better view of the surrounding countryside. To begin your hike walk down the access road to Tower Road. Turn right and walk alk about .75 miles to the point where the trail enters the forest on the left. Walk through a stand of tall pines. At 1.1 miles cross Tower Road and head west briefly before turning south and crossing Preston Road at around 2.0 miles. The trail rolls a little but is mostly downhill at you walk south. Over the next 1.4 miles the trail makes several twists and turns but generally heads south and downhill. The trail seems to follow an old road and only leaves that road when it is blocked by blowdowns. There are some interesting rock formations along the way and a set of small bridges over some wet areas. There is also a larger bridge over a stream. All of these may be slippery when wet! At 3.4 miles you will arrive at one of the parking areas at Bowman Lake State Park. The trail heads down to the beach area. The park has a small but beautiful lake with a nice beach and a roped swimming area. After seeing what the park has to offer, turn around to head back to your car. Hike the trail to Preston Road and turn right on the road to head toward Tower Road. Turn left on Tower Road. Walk the last 1.3 miles on Tower Road to the access road to the tower. Turn left and walk back up the hill to your car. (The map shows the parking area and the out and back hiking route.)
(The image above shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Dickinson Hill Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Grafton Lakes State Park Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 3.0 mi.
550 ft.
GPSies
Grafton Lakes State Park is on Route 2 between Troy and Petersburg. Turn north into the park entrance and look for North Long Pond Road. This road is the one you turn onto when you enter the "Winter Entrance" to the park. Drive a little over 2 miles to the parking area at the northeast corner of Long Pond. Just before the parking area you will pass the sign for the fire tower trail on your right. Walk back up the road from the parking area and turn left onto the trail. The trail is a wide woods road and multiuse trail that has no really steep sections. After about 1.25 miles the trail ends at Fire Tower Road near a private residence. Fire Tower Road goes directly to the tower but there is no parking on the road. Walk northeast on Fire Tower Road for a few hundred feet until you are at the gated access road to the tower on the right. Walk up the access road to the tower. The tower can be climbed year round and the cab is always open. There are 360 degree views with the best views of the Catskills to the west and southwest. The only drawback is the communications tower that shares the summit of the hill. (The map above shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Ferncliff Forest Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Mount Rutsen Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 2.0 mi.
285 ft.
GPSies
Ferncliff Forest is a privately owned nature and historical preserve near Rhinecliff, NY. The land at one time was owned by the Astors. Presently it has a nice pond, two lean-tos, some ruins, and a tower. The tower is an International Derrick that was relocated from South Carolina several years ago. From Rhinecliff head south on River Road. When the road splits, bear left on Mount Rutsen Road and park in the first lot on your right. From Rhinebeck head north on Route 9. Turn left onto Montgomery Street which becomes Mount Rutsen Road. Drive about 1.8 miles from Route 9 and park at the lot on your left. From the parking area follow the wide road to the pond. There may be brochures at the kiosk near the parking area but maps are hard to come by. East Tower Trail and West Tower Trail both go to the tower but are NOT well marked. Follow a trail or some paths north from the pond and then west and you should run into East Tower Trail. Follow this to the tower. The tower has some fantastic views of the Hudson River, Kingston Rhinecliff Bridge and the Catskills. There are some interesting building below and on the western shore of the river. There is no view from the hill without climbing the tower. Once you have taken in the views and taken some pictures, return to the ground and head south on the West Tower Trail. Heed the sign along the way that tells you to return to the parking area by the Circle Trail. The Circle Trail brings you to the shore of the pond. You may turn left or right to get back to the road that leads back to the car. (The map above shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Graham Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Guymard Turnpike Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 5.3 mi.
800 ft.
GPSies
Drive to the hamlet of Godeffroy on Route 209 about 5.5 miles north of Port Jervis. Watch for the Guymard Turnpike on the east side of the road. Turn onto the turnpike and drive about .7 miles to a T. Turn right to follow the turnpike as it ascends and passes by one end of Guymard Lake. In about .2 miles park on the side of the road. The train tracks are active so look and listen before crossing to the other side to pick up the Shawangunk Ridge trail. Turn left and head northeast on the wide and flat woods road that parallels the Conrail tracks. After 1.7 miles of absolutely flat walking, look for red blazes going up the hill to the right and turn onto another woods road. The road wanders up the mountain heading south, then east, then southeast. At a little over 2 miles you will cross the white trail that you will use on the way back. The fire tower shares the top of the hill with cell towers and a nice little cabin. There is an access road for the cell towers which would probably be the quickest and easiest route to the top. The entire first flight of treads on the tower is missing from the steps to discourage anyone from climbing on the now closed tower! Find the blazes of the white trail to start back to the car. At some points this trail comes very close to the edge of the cliff but there are no real views. The white trail twists and turns but heads generally north. This route is much more of a trail than the red blazed woods road you used on the way up. Parts of it are rough as it gets little use. The last .3 miles are a rather steep descent along a small stream. In this section there is barely a trail and lots of rocks to negotiate. After slightly over a mile, you will be back on the SRT just slightly north of the turn for the red trail. Turn left and enjoy the flat hike back to the car. (The map at the right shows the parking area and the out and back hiking route.)
(The image at the left shows the profile of the hike.)
Jackie Jones Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Old gate Hill Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 2.3 mi.
445 ft.
GPSies
Take the Palisades Parkway to Exit 15 and turn left onto Route 106. Drive to the junction with Route 98 and turn right. The parking area is a short distance up the road on the left. Park your car here. Walk west on the road for about 100 yards and then turn left on the trail walking passed the gate. The trail turns south and the access road to the communications tower soon splits off to the right. At .6 miles the trail passes the ruins of the ORAK Mansion. This mansion was built in 1923 by George Briggs Buchanan, a vice president of the Corn Products Refining Company, which manufactured Karo syrup. Orak is Karo spelled backwards. After Buchanan died in 1939, his heirs sold the mansion to the park, and it was demolished in 1973. Walk to the right off the trail and into the area that was once the dining room. Little remains except for a rock wall with a door and small round windows. Buchanan had the floor of the dining room built to sway like the deck of a ship and the round widows acted as portholes. After exploring the ruins, continue on the main trail for another .7 miles heading WSW. You will pass by the communications tower and arrive at the Jackie Jones Tower. The tower is not in good condition so use great caution if you decide to ascend any of the steps. When you are done, return to your car by reversing your route. There are many trails in the area so you can easily create a loop of your liking. (The map shows the parking area and the out-and-back hiking route.) (The image shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Leonard Hill Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Leonard Mountain Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 3.8 mi.
700 ft.
GPSies
Drive to Broome Center, New York in Schoharie County. Turn southeast on Leonard Mountain Road. Drive 1.2 miles on a seasonally maintained road until the signs for Leonard Hill State Forest. Park where you can which varies depending on the season. Start out and stay on the wide woods road that ascends the hill. After .65 miles at the top of the ridge the trail will turn right and begin to skirt Hubbard Hill on the left. Continue around Hubbard Hill staying on the road. Just after a slight descent the road will turn away from Hubbard Hill and start toward Leonard Hill where the fire tower is located. The total distance to the tower is about 1.7 miles. The tower is presently closed to the public and the first two flights of stairs are missing. Fortunately there is a nice viewpoint nearby that will have to do until the fire tower is restored. When you are done, retrace your steps back to the car. This hike can be combined with a visit to Vroman's Nose, the Middleburgh Cliffs or several other hikes in the area.
(The map on the right shows the parking area and the hiking route in an out and back and anticlockwise direction.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Mount Utsayantha Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Tower Mountain Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 2.1 mi.
678 ft.
GPSies
Mount Utsayantha is just southeast of the village of Stamford in Delaware County. The mountain has a fire tower which gives GREAT views of the surrounding mountains, hills and valleys. From the ground there is a nice view down into Stamford from in front of the Churchill Education Building. The mountain also hosts several communications antennae. The dirt road to the top is passable in all but winter and the wettest conditions. Head east from Stamford on Route 23 watching for Mountain Avenue on the right. This turns into Tower Mountain Road as it climbs quickly. As the road begin to level off after about 1.25 miles. Turn left onto Tower Road. Driving to the top may be possible but does NOT count for the CHH list. Park at the bottom and walk up the road to the summit. At about .8 miles the road splits but bear to the left and walk another .2 miles to the top. Look around. Climb the fire tower. Walk to the front of the Churchill building. Take lots of pictures. On the way back down stop at the viewpoint on your left and take some more pictures. At the fork in the road walk straight ahead for a different view in a different direction. Turn around and return back down the mountain to your car. (The image at the left is the vertical profile for the entire out and back hike.)
Ninham Mountain Fire Tower
Quick Lcok - from Mount Ninham Court Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 1.4 mi.
385 ft.
GPSies
From Carmel, NY head east on Route 301. After crossing over the West Branch Reservoir, turn right on Gypsy Trail Road (Route 41). From the north take Route 301 from the Taconic Parkway and head west on Route 301. Turn left on Gypsy Trail Road just before crossing the reservoir. Drive about 2.3 miles to Mount Ninham Court on the left. DO NOT park at the Ninham Multiple Use parking area on the right at about 2.0 miles. After turning onto Mount Ninham Court, drive to the end and park in the small lot. Two roads leave the parking area. Use the gated road to the right. Before leaving the parking area, observe the stone chamber in the side of the hill. There are several of these in the area and their origin is a mystery. Walk up the road which will take you to the fire tower. There is another chamber on the right. There are many stone walls on the mountain. Many of these wall have stones much larger than the typical stones found in walls. After walking .75 miles and gaining 380 feet, you will be at the tower. It is hard to get a picture of the tower as it is surrounded by trees and communications towers. The tower seems safe to climb and the cab is open but without a roof. When you are done, retrace your steps to the car or explore a little in the area. (The map above shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Rock Rift Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Route 10 Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 3.9 mi.
1300 ft.
GPSies
Take exit 87A on the Quickway, State Route 17, and watch for signs for Route 268 North. Drive to the end of Route 268 where it meets Route 10 and turn right. Drive about 1.2 miles and park in the boat launch on the south side of the road across from Fish Brook Road. If you are coming from the west on Route 10 watch for the signs for Route 268 and then follow these directions. From the east on Route 10 drive about 10 miles from Walton passing the parking area on the south side of the road. Continue to the boat launch area and park there. Walk west on Route 10 for about .2 miles crossing over Fish Brook. Watch for a woods road on the north side of the road that heads up the hill. The road is the old access road to the tower and sits on a narrow strip of land purchased by the Conservation Department for that purpose. This land is now part of the Cannonsville Watershed and is owned by New York City. It was recently opened to hikers and the Finger Lakes Trail Conference has done a nice job of moving the trail from road walks to woods walks wherever possible. Be sure to avoid private property! Walk from the parking area west about .25 miles and watch for a woods road on the right. This trail is considered a spur trail and is marked in blue but there are presently no signs on Route 10. The blue trail leads up through a meadow and, after a short distance, meets the main trail which is blazed in white. Continue to follow the white blazes straight ahead. The first 1.25 miles and the last .2 miles of this route are gently sloped. The half mile in between averages a 25% grade with some spots being even steeper! From the tower reverse your steps back to the car.
(The map on the right shows the parking area and the hiking route in an out and back and anticlockwise direction.) (The image shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
South Beacon Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Route 9D Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 5.3 mi.
1730 ft.
GPSies
Park at the parking lot for Mount Beacon Park just south of the center of Beacon on Route 9D. The hike starts on some groomed walkways and heads east on the red Casino Trail and up a series of metal stairs to a woods road at about .5 miles. Along the way look to you right and you will see the remains of the track of the elevated Otis Railway that took patrons to the casino that was perched on the lookouts at the top of the trail. The woods road winds back and forth through several switchbacks to mitigate the steepness of the mountain. The trail is eroded in many places with loose rocks.There are some viewpoints on the way up but the best ones are at the top. At about 1.2 miles you will be near the top of the mountain. Watch for the ruins of a red brick building. This housed the donkey engines which polled the cars of the elevated railway to the top. Some of the machinery is still present. You may be able to find pieces of track and cables. Walk to the viewpoints and imagine what is was like when the casino was in operation. You can inspect the foundations and get some idea of the size of the casino before getting back on the trail and heading southeast to about 2 mile. Turn right here on the white Breakneck Ridge Trail and follow it on a steep ascent to the South Beacon fire tower. The tower has been completely restored and is safe to climb to the cab. The steps, landings and cab floor are all open grid steel which can be a little disconcerting but perfectly safe. The view from the tower is 360 degrees. Retrace your steps to the Casino Trail and walk to the junction with the yellow Wilkinson Trail. Turn left to begin to walk along Scofield Ridge. The ridge is just over the county line and is the highest point in Putnam County. The trail may not pass over the highest point on the ridge and there is a lot of debate over where that point is located. You may want to bushwhack a little off the trail to find the highest spot and take in some great views. At about 2.9 miles the trail breaks out onto a rock outcrop. There is a nice view of the fire tower to the west and of the Beacon Reservoir directly below. The trail continues and various loops are available. For this hike turn a round and retrace your steps back to the parking area. (The map shows the parking area and the out and back hiking route with a side trip to the fire tower.)
(The image shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Sterling Forest Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Long Meadow Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 5.3 mi.
1024 ft.
GPSies
From Route 17A near Indian Reservoir, take Long Meadow Road south. Pass the entrance to the Sterling Forest Visitor's Center on Old Forge Road and continue south for another 1.5 miles. A road that leads to the seasonal parking area will be on the right. You may have to park outside the gate if the road is closed for the winter. Walk to the far end of the parking area and continue on Lakeville Road. Watch for the three red blazes on your left that signal the beginning of the Fire Tower Trail. This trail climbs rather gently through open forest to Sterling Ridge. After about 1.4 miles you will be at the fire tower. This tower is believed to be the only active fire tower left in New York State. A ranger is assigned to the tower to watch for fires in southern New York and northern New Jersey. The ranger is NOT always on duty so call ahead to the Visitor's Center to find out if the tower will be open. When a ranger is not on duty, a locked gate blocks access to the tower. The views from Sterling Ridge are limited in most areas but the views from the tower are great in all directions. Once you are satisfied that you have seen all you can from the tower, return to your car my reversing your route. There are many other trails in the area so you may also create a loop that takes in other points of interest. (The map above shows the parking area and the out-and-back hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Stissing Mountain
Quick Look - from Lake Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 1.9 mi.
940 ft.
GPSies
There are several possible access points for Stissing Mountain. It is unclear whether all have an easement over private property. The access from Lake Road is in the Thompson Pond area owned by the Nature Conservancy and featured on their website. Thompson Pond is an "ancient pond" formed as a kettle lake. From Pine Plains, take Route 199 west. Just outside of town turn left on Lake Road. From the west take Route 199 east and turn right on Lake Road just before you enter Pine Plains. Drive about 1.5 miles on Lake road to the FIRST parking area on the left. Directly across the road is a gated woods road that is the access to Stissing Mountain. Walk through the gate and start up the woods road or path net to it. After hiking only .25 miles the road splits. The left branch is steeper but a little shorter. Bear left to ascend to the tower. From the fork in the trail it is only another .5 miles but the elevation gain is 620 feet with an average grade of 23%. Parts of the trail level off some so the steeper parts can be quite steep. The tower affords the only real view from the summit and it seems sturdy enough as you climb. The view from the top is well worth the climb. There are great views to the east over Stissing Pond and Thompson Pond. When you have taken in the view and taken some pictures descend the tower for the trip back. To make a loop, walk passed the tower and take the trail that branches to the left. This is a short, steep descent which can be icy. At the bottom of this descent turn right and head down the trail which parallels the one you ascended. This part can be wet and part way down you will cross a small stream. About .8 miles from the tower you will be back at the stone cairn that marks the fork in the trail. Retrace your path back to the parking area. (The map above shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
New Jersey
District A Bearfort Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Clinton Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 4.15 mi
700 ft
GPSies
Park at parking area P4 on Clinton Road in the Pequannock Watershed Area. This area is owned by the City of Newark Water Supply and they require a parking permit. The area is patrolled so go to their headquarters on Echo Lake Road and buy a yearly permit. Walk back out to the road, turn left, walk across the road bridge, cross the road and walk into the woods on the trail. The trail ascend through an evergreen forest until it tops out at .5 miles and then descend to cross a brook on a bridge. Continue on the trail over the next bump and cross another brook on stepping stones at 1.0 miles. The trail begins to ascend to the ridge and at 1.3 miles you may go straight ahead or turn left. Turn left and continue to ascend to the ridge to 2.0 miles when the fire tower should come into view. Climb the tower for the best views around before continuing your hike. You may retrace your steps or walk southwest on the ridge and slightly down for the next .5 miles. At 2.5 miles take the cutoff trail to the right and descend off the ridge back to the trail junction from earlier. Follow your original route back to the car. (The map at the right shows the parking area and the hiking route as a "lollipop" in a clockwise direction.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Budd Lake Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Fire Tower Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps .7 mi
115 ft
GPSies
From Route 46 in Budd Lake, NJ take Sand Shore Road north along the east shore of Budd Lake for a little more than 1.5 miles. Turn right on Fire Tower Road. Where Fire Tower Road crosses Lozier Road continue straight across. When the road branches follow the right fork and park at the dead end. Be sure to leave space for vehicles to pass through the gate especially during times of high fire alert. Walk north along the road for about .35 miles to the tower. Take some pictures and then retrace your path back to the car. Budd Lake is the largest fresh water lake in New Jersey so it may be worthwhile to visit the tower during a high fire alert so that you mat climb the tower with permission from the observer. (The map shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Catfish Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Millbrook Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 5.03mi
919 ft
GPSies
Get on Old Mine Road through the Delaware Water Gap. Take Route 402, Millbrook Road south from Millbrook Village. The road ascends the Kittatinny Ridge. Park on Millbrook Road at its highest point at then end of a fire road. Parking space is very limited. Get on the AT as it leaves the parking area toward the southeast. The AT runs along a road as it turns southwest and then leaves the road to the left and starts to climb to the ridge line. The trail gets steeper at times and climbs about .6 miles to the high point and the Catfish Fire Tower. The views from the tower are excellent especially on clear days without haze. As always, you can retrace your path to the car but a better idea is to walk along the ridge along the At continuing to the southwest. There are several viewpoints along the way and none is better than the one at 2.1 miles where you will turn off the AT onto the Rattlesnake Swamp Trail. This trail ascends over the top of the ridge and then drops to Catfish Pond at about 2.8 miles. The views of this small, secluded pond are beautiful. The trail then crosses the swamp and runs along it. These areas can be wet and "buggy" when there has been rain! This trail parallels the AT for about 2.0 Niles where, at 4.8 miles into the hike it meets the road that you started on at the beginning of the hike. (The map at the right shows the parking area and the hiking route in a clockwise direction.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Culvers Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Sunrise Highway Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 3.3 mi
800 ft
GPSies
Take Rt 206 south from
Milford, PA and watch for the junction with Route 560. Drive 1.7 miles from the junction passing Kittatiny Lake on the right. Turn left on Upper North Shore Road. The road splits almost immediately into Sunrise Highway, a seasonal road, and Upper North Shore Road. Turn right into the parking area. Walk out the far end of the parking area and along Sunrise Highway. Watch for the blazes of the AT in about .25 miles. Turn right into the woods and begin to ascend the ridge on a trail that switches back several times. At the top of the trail there is a nice lookout over Culvers Lake. The trail turns left or northeast from here and follows along the ridge with minimal elevation gain the rest of the way. Around 1.6 miles you will spot a tower ahead but that is the communications tower. Just around the next bend is the fire tower. the official policy is that no one is allowed to climb the towers when an observer I not present. Fortunately, there are some nice views from the ground. To return the shortest way simply retrace your path up to then tower. Several other routes from Stokes Forest are possible and include other viewpoints like Sunrise Mountain. (The map shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Greystone Fire Tower
Quick Look - from Casterline Road Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 0 mi
0 ft
GPSies
This was a hard tower to find but an easy one to hike. There is an access road that goes directly to the tower. The map and profiles here show parking at then of the access road but this is not really necessary. At 92 feet Greystone is the tallest tower in New Jersey. From Route 10 heading east toward Denville turn right on Miller Mountain Road. After only .25 miles, bear right on Zeek Road. Follow Zeek Road until it ends at Casterline Road. Turn right on Casterline and then right again on the unmarked access road. Drive to the end of the road and park near the tower. You will have to visit this tower during fire season as it is fenced and cannot be climbed unless an observer is present. (The map shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Milton Fire Tower
Milton Fire Tower - Quick Look Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps 3.7 mi
840 ft
GPSies
Park at the picnic area at Mahlon Dickerson Reservation which can be reached from Route 15 near Lake Hopatcong. There is an extensive trail network and it is marked but can be confusing. Across the road from the parking area a trail leads to the Headley Overlook. The round trip is under 1 mile but the overlook just isn't that good if there are any leaves on the trees. From the parking area walk down a trail to the northeast that parallels Weldon Road. When a trail branches toward Weldon Road to the east or southeast turn right and cross Weldon Road toward the old Snow Bowl ski area. There is a dirt bike track on the right but you should follow the road on the left that heads toward a ridge which is Bowling Green. Pass through a steel gate and by some ruins staying on the road which is the access road to the cell tower on top of the ridge. You may stay on the road for the entire hike but it is longer than heading straight up the trail next to the road. At one point the road turns right in sort of a switchback but you should continue up the trail. It is steep in places but will bring you out on the road very near the cell tower. Turn left and walk to the top and wander around until you find the highest spot. The distance so far is only about 1.3 miles. At this point you can return to the parking area by reversing the route or choose to stay on the ridge and visit the Milton fire tower at the other end. The fire tower, one of the highest in the state, is definitely worth the trip especially if there is no haze or humidity! The distance to the tower is only .6 miles and it is flat. Now you can go back to the car or choose to visit the Morris County High Point on the other side of the road. (The map above shows the parking area and the out and back hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
Ramapo Fire Tower
Quick Look Difficulty Round trip Total climb Internet Maps .6 mi
110 ft
GPSies
From Ringwood head south on the Greenwood Lake Turnpike which is also known as Ringwood Avenue. Turn left on Skyline Drive and continue for about 2.6 miles. Pull over at the end of a road marked as "Private Driveway" across the road from a gated access to the gas pipeline. Park away from the gate. Walk up the driveway for about .3 miles to the tower. If an observer is present get permission to climb the tower. There are excellent views of the Wanaque Reservoir to the west. Turn facing east and you will see a great view of the New York City skyline. The skyline is clearly visible without a camera but a zoom lens helps. Walk back to your car when you are done. (The map shows the parking area and the hiking route.) (The image at the left shows the profile of the hike. Remember that all vertical profiles are relative!)
