Challenge: ADK Fire Towers ·

Cathedral Rock

Cathedral Rock - Pure Adirondacks

A close second in line to Belfry when it comes to the easiest fire tower climb, Cathedral Rock is a perfect hike for families because of its minimal elevation gain and short ascent to the summit. While not quite as accessible as Belfry from many areas of the Adirondacks, the view from the fire tower makes the drive worth it!

Trail Stats:

Distance: 1.0 miles round-trip

Elevation: 1,700 ft

Ascent: 200 feet

From the trailhead you will follow along a road (gated to vehicles) for a few hundred feet until you reach the trailhead on your right. As the mountain is by the Wanakena Ranger School, the trail will pass over some campus roads early on before it approaches some cliffs that the trail will take you around until you come out above them. Continue along to a small pavilion where you will find Tower Road, which takes you to the tower at the top.

Trailhead:

Beginning from Cranberry Lake, head west on Route 3. When you reach Route 61, turn south (left) -- you will see a small sign for Wanakena. After 0.8 miles, take a left. After 0.2 miles you will be approaching the college campus where you will take another left onto Ranger School Road. After 1.2 miles you will have reached the SUNY Ranger School. Take a left within the school and look for the athletic fields (on the left) where there is a parking area. The trail will begin at the gated dirt road.

 

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ADK Fire Towers

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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.

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Adirondack Fire Towers Guidebook
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.

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