Hike this out-and-back journey along the beautiful Millbrook Ridge Trail to the spectacular summit views from the Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower. This hike is rated difficult for its length (13.8 miles/ approx. 8 hours), but we will travel along trails the whole way. Stops include the Beaver Meadow Lean-to, the Beecher Lake Overlook, and of course the fire tower.

Space is limited to 12 hikers, so please register early. Participants must register by October 20. Register by contacting Al Purdy at Albertpurdy1@aol.com or (845) 489-2332. Participants need to bring lunch/ snacks, water/ drinks, a headlamp, layered clothing/ rain protection, sturdy hiking boots, a headlamp (preferred) or flashlight, and bright clothes for hunting season. Dogs are not permitted on this hike.

From NYS Thruway Exit 19 at Kingston, take State Route 28 west to 45.5 miles past Margaretville. Less than 2 miles past Margaretville, turn left and a quick right onto BWS Road No. 10 and continue for 8.3 miles. Turn left onto Barkaboom Road (toward Big Pond and Little Pond) and continue 6.2 miles to the stop sign. Turn left onto Beaverkill road for 1.4 miles; then turn left onto Alder Road for 2.2 miles. Turn right onto cross mountain road for 100 ft. and follow the dirt road to the parking area for Alder Lake. (*Note: do not follow directions to take Cross Mountain Road.)

From Route 28 North, go south to Andes, make a right and then bear left onto Delaware County Highway 1 (following signs for Shavertown). Reach the stop sign at just under 8 miles, turn right, go over the reservoir bridge, and turn left onto BWS Road No. 8. At 1.9 miles stay to the right and from this point continue 6.2 miles to the stop sign. Turn left onto Beaverkill road for 1.4 miles; then turn left onto Alder Road for 2.2 miles. Turn right onto cross mountain road for 100 ft. and follow the dirt road to the parking area for Alder Lake.