- This event has passed.
Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower Hike into History
October 2, 2018 @ 9:30 am - 2:30 pm
Join Laurie Rankin for a hike to the Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower, the site of the oldest fire tower in NYS. This hike into history will include information about the role of fire towers across NYS, the Catskills, and specifically Balsam Lake Mountain. While at the summit, hikers will be treated to an opportunity to see the historical displays at the restored Observer’s Cabin and Fire Tower and hopefully some spectacular views too!
Tuesday, October 2, 2018. Hike sets out at 9:30 am at the Millbrook Road Parking area (Northern Trailhead) for the Dry Brook Ridge Trail. The hike, a 6 mile round trip with 1100′ of elevation gain is along the old Observer’s jeep road, which has rocky and rough footing. Sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, a camera and a good attitude should accompany each hiker.
Laurie is the daughter of the last full time Observer to serve at Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower, the Coordinator for the Friends of Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower Group, and the NYS Chapter Director of the Forest Fire Lookout Association.
Event Duration: 6 miles, 5 hours
Level of Difficulty: Moderate
Leader(s): Laurie Rankin
Bring: lunch, sunscreen, bug spray, something to drink, etc.
Registration required by 09/28/18. Use registration form below to register.
Group size is limited to 12, so register early.
Fee: No
Dogs allowed: No
Questions about this event can be directed to: lauriejrankin@gmail.com or (845) 926-2182
Driving Directions: Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower Driving Directions
To the southern trailhead: From NY17, exit 96 at Livingston Manor, take the first two right turns. Proceed 0.3 mi, then turn right just past Kings Catering. Continue for 14.0 mi on County Routes 151, 152, and 54 (same road) to a junction with Barkaboom Road and Beaverkill Road. Turn east on Beaver Kill road and proceed approximately 9 mi to the end of the road. The road ends at the DEC parking area. From NY 28/30 in Margaretville, travel west on to old NY 30 (where 29/30 curves right), turn left, traveling south of Pepacton Reservoir to Barkaboom Road. Turn left and continue for several miles past Little Pond Public Campground to Beaver Kill Road. Turn left for approximately 9 mi to the end of the road. The road ends at the DEC parking area. *** The last portion of the road is a seasonal limited use highway and it may be necessary to walk the last few miles.
To the northern trailhead: From NY28 in Arkville, take Dry Brook Road (County Route 49), just west of the Dry Brook bridge, and continue for 6.1 mi. Turn right on Mill Brook Road for 2.2 mi to the DEC parking area at right. Cross the road to the blue-marked trail.
From Alder Lake: From NY17, exit 96 at Livingston Manor, take first two right turns. Proceed 0.3 mi and make right turn just past Kings Catering. Continue 14.3 mi (past Barkaboom Road). Turn north onto County Route 54 at the junction at Turnwood. Continue 2.4 mi and bear right at curve at Cross Mountain Camp; at immediate second junction, do not go up the hill but bear right for 0.4 mi to the trailhead.