Challenge: ADK Fire Towers ·

Buck Mountain Fire Tower

Buck Mountain Fire Tower Trail Guide

The Buck Mountain Fire Tower Trail is a scenic 1.2-mile hike (2.4 miles round-trip) with an elevation gain of 500 feet. Located at 484 South Sabattis Circle Road, about eight miles north of Long Lake off NYS Route 30, this trail officially opened to the public in September 2023.

Trail Stats

Distance	2.4 miles round-trip
Elevation	2,400 ft
Ascent	500 ft

Trail Overview

This community-built trail was developed with help from Cedar Heights Timber, LLC, Hamilton County Soil and Water Conservation District, the Town of Long Lake, and local volunteers. Crews from the ADK Mountain Club constructed boardwalks, bridges, hand-built stone steps, and wooden staircases to meet sustainable trail-building standards. The trail leads to a historic 60-foot fire tower, first installed in 1933.

At the top, enjoy panoramic 360-degree views of the Whitney Wilderness, Little Tupper Lake, and the surrounding Adirondack landscape.

Trailhead Location & Parking

The trailhead is located at 484 South Sabattis Circle Road, approximately eight miles north of Long Lake and accessible from NYS Route 30. The parking area accommodates up to 40 vehicles, helping reduce roadside congestion.

Map

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Fire Tower Collection

Visit our online shop

Inspired by these iconic structures and the hiking challenge, we have created multiple products for our community.

Shop Collection

Keep it PURE

Remember to Leave No Trace! Buy a physical map, read it, plan, and prepare. Think about the NYS Rangers and medical personnel that exhaust themselves for a rescue that could have been avoided. Pack out your trash. Use a bear canister when primitive camping and cook away from where you’re sleeping. Do the rock walk to help reduce the impact on fragile alpine vegetation. Camp at designated campsites and never camp on or near summits.

Take The Pledge!

#LoveYourADK

Each year, millions of people visit the public lands inside the Adirondacks. However you choose to spend your time here, we know the Adirondacks will hold a special place in your heart. We feel the same way. To Love Your Adirondacks is to protect the lands, waters, and communities we all know and love.

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Recommendation

Fire Towers Guidebook

Extensively revised in 2021, this popular hiking guide to fire tower trails enables hikers, history buffs, and others fond of Adirondack and Catskill trails to visit and learn about 30 historic fire towers.

Purchase Here

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