Hike this lesser known and fragile section of FLT in the southwest Catskills featuring scrambles and vanishing views of Balsam Lake and the Balsam Lake Fire Tower. This hike will reach the tower from the southwest and will explore several views, including a vista of the elusive Graham Mountain. Though not a bushwack, this hike is rated difficult, as it will cover 8 miles and is expected to take 7 hours. The pace will be moderate, and this is a great hike for all Catskill trails seekers.

We will meet at 8:30 AM at the Beaverkill Road Parking Lot (Quaker Clearing Trailhead).

Participants should bring lunch/ snacks, water/ drink, sunscreen, bug spray, hat, layered clothing, flashlight. Hiking poles are also suggested.

Participants must register by October 15 by contacting Deanna Felicetta at felicetta.deanna@gmail.com or (845) 216-2021. Registration for the hike is limited to 12 people. Dogs are not permitted.

Directions:

From Exit 96 Livingston Manor turn right at base of exit ramp (for both east and west directions) and go a short distance to Old Route 17. Turn right and go approximately 1.3 miles and see the brown-and-white recreation wayfinding signs to turn right on Beaverkill Road. Take this road 20.3 miles almost all the way to the end (staying to the right at 10.8 miles) and the Quaker Clearing Trailhead will be on your right up a short gravel driveway.

From State Route 30 between Margaretville and Downsville, take NYC BWS Road #8 immediately south of the bridge that crosses the Pepacton Reservoir for 1.9 miles and stay right onto Barkaboom Road. From this intersection, take the Barkaboom Road 6.2 miles to the intersection with Ulster County Hwy 54 (the Beaverkill Road). Turn left and go 9.5 miles almost all the way to the end and the Quaker Clearing Trailhead will be on your right up a short gravel driveway.

GPS Coordinates: 42.02396, -74.59969