From the Catskill 3500 Club: One of two high peaks that feature fire towers, Balsam Lake Mountain is accessed from the Balsam Lake Mountain Trail, a short side trail off the Dry Brook Ridge Trail. Trailed approaches from the north, south and west offer plenty of variation for visiting this peak. While no views are possible from the summit without ascending the tower, the dense balsam fir forest is beautiful and serene. Another fire tower hike - this time I managed to battle my fear of heights and climb about halfway up. The photo above was taken by Topo from the top of the tower. Also got in a short meditation at the summit. Ice covered the trail in spots during the descent, so out came the spikes. Temps were in the low 40s with mostly clear skies and some winds. Trailhead: Beaverkill Road (end), Livingston Manor, New York Route: Dry Brook Ridge Trail to Balsam Lake Mountain Trail Type: Lollipop Distance: 4.3 miles Elevation gain: ~1,200 feet Difficulty: 8/10 Trail scenery: 7/10 Summit experience: 9/10 Summit views: 7/10 Overall: 7.5/10 (Rank: #3)
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