Balsam Lake Mountain Trail
Trails New York Balsam Lake Mountain Trail
New York · ulster County

Balsam Lake Mountain Trail

Moderate climb to a fire tower summit with expansive mountain views.

Rating
Length
4.0 mi
Difficulty
5
County
ulster

About This Trail

A 6-mile round-trip to the westernmost 3,500-foot peak in the Catskill Park, topped with a 47-foot fire tower first placed here in 1887. The trail follows the blue-blazed Dry Brook Ridge Trail through beautiful balsam forest with a spring near the top. The tower offers one of the finest 360-degree views in the Catskills.

Location

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Coordinates: 42.0239, -74.5998

Getting There

From Arkville, NY, take Mill Brook Road south for approximately 8 miles to the Dry Brook Ridge Trailhead. The parking area is on the left. Follow the Dry Brook Ridge Trail to the Balsam Lake Mountain summit and fire tower.

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