Challenge: ADK Fire Towers ·

Owls Head Fire Tower | Long Lake, New York

Owls Head Fire Tower | Long Lake, New York

Whether you are completing the fire tower challenge or looking for a day hike in the Long Lake area, Owls Head Fire Tower is a great choice. Less popular than Blue Mountain Fire Tower, this family-friendly hike is often less crowded and offers great views for its moderate climb. 

The summit sits at 2,812 feet in elevation, and offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and lakes from the top of the tower. The trailhead is located off of Endion Road in Long Lake and climbs about 1,250 feet over 3.1 miles. Well-marked and easy to follow, you will begin your hike with a gradual climb. Soon, the trail levels off until you come to the Lake Eaton trail junction at 1.2 miles.

Turning left at the junction you will continue to climb gradually until you are about one mile from the summit. At this point, the trail will become steeper as you make your way to the false summit. After passing over the false summit the trail drops slightly into a col where you will see the remains of the old observer's cabin. From here you will make your final steep push toward the summit.

Once at the summit, you can climb the tower and welcome the 360-degree views from the top. From the ground, there are also open views off to the east and south. On a clear day, you should easily be able to make out Blue Mountain in the distance. After enjoying the summit and the tower, you will retrace your steps back to the car.

Trailhead

From the intersection of Route 28 and Route 30 Long Lake, follow Route 30 toward Tupper Lake. Continue for about 2-miles to Endion Road on the left. Follow Endion Road until you see the trailhead for Owl’s Head Fire Tower on your right.

Featured Video

Check out a winter day on the trail with Jay Morrison (ADK Woods Walker) and a few of his friends. You can check out more outdoor adventures and gear reviews by following along his YouTube channel.

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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
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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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