Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower (Photo by D. Felicetta)

This is a beautiful trail hike, beginning at Alder Lake and incorporating many scenic spots including Beaver Meadow and the fire tower atop Balsam Lake Mountain. At 8.8 miles in length and an approximate duration of seven hours, this hike is rated as moderate-difficult. The day’s pace will be moderate (about 1-1/2 mph moving pace) with short breaks. Fit beginners are welcome to join this hike.

Participants should bring lunch, hiking poles (recommended), headlamp, water, sports drink, snacks, insect repellent, and sunscreen. This hike is limited to 12 participants and registration is required. To register, contact hike leader Marv Freedman at marvfreedman@gmail.com by September 7. Dogs are permitted with the permission of the event leader.

Directions: We'll meet at the Balsam Lake parking area at the end of Beaver Kill / Turnwood Road. This is where our hike will end. We'll leave most cars there and will caravan to the Alder Lake parking area to start our hike. From NYS Thruway Exit 19 (Kingston) turn right onto State Route 28 west and follow for 46.3 miles. Turn left onto route 30 follow for 8.3 miles. After crossing the Pepacton Reservoir, turn left immediately onto BWS road 8 for 1.9 miles. Stay right as BWS becomes Barkaboom Road - continue for 6.3 miles. Turn left onto Beaverkill Road follow for 9.5 miles to its end. The parking area will be on your right.

From Old Rte. 17 (west of Livingston Manor), take Beaverkill Road north. At 10.8 miles stay right and continue for another 9.5 miles to the end of the road. The parking area will be on your right.

Google Maps Link to meeting location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/qL5gF4VKWma31RZ38

GPS coordinates of meeting location: 42.023958, -74.599684

Additional Information: Meeting place and time, route details, and required gear are subject to change based on weather forecast, trail conditions, etc. Updated information will be provided via email, usually about 4 days before the hike.