Blue Mountain Fire Tower/Hiking Trail - Blue Mountain Lake, NY
Blue Mountain Fire Tower/Hiking Trail – Dog-Friendly Adventure in Blue Mountain Lake, NY
If you’re seeking a pet-friendly trail in Blue Mountain Lake, NY, the Blue Mountain Fire Tower/Hiking Trail is a popular choice among dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This well-marked, scenic hike offers steady inclines and rewards visitors with spectacular panoramic views from atop the historic fire tower. The trail is about 4 to 5 miles round trip and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rocky climbs, and the chance for both you and your dog to get a great workout. The area is frequented by dog owners, with many reviews noting that dogs of all sizes and ages can enjoy the route—just make sure they’re up for a moderate to challenging hike.
While the trail doesn’t feature typical dog park amenities like fenced areas or agility equipment, it is praised for its dog-friendly atmosphere and the variety of trails connected to the main route, including options like Castle Rock and Sargent Pond. There are shaded spots along the way and plenty of places to picnic, either at the peak or by the nearby Buttermilk Falls. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it can fill quickly on busy days. Remember to pack enough water for both you and your pup, and always follow Leave No Trace principles by picking up after your pet.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs should remain leashed while on the trail for their safety and in accordance with general wilderness etiquette.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs are welcome on the trail but must be on-leash at all times.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the main trail connects with other popular hiking routes like Castle Rock and Sargent Pond.
- Is there shade or shelter available? There are shaded areas along the trail and at the summit, but no formal covered shelters.
- Are restrooms available for owners? There is an outhouse at the site, but no formal bathrooms.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available at the trailhead, though it can fill up on busy days.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? The trail can be muddy and slippery after rain; proper footwear is recommended.
- Is the park open year-round? The area is accessible year-round, though use caution in winter or when trails are slippery.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the trailhead offers access to several routes, including Castle Rock and Sargent Pond.
Reviews
The trail is well marked and maintained. It gets steep towards the top but nothing too difficult. The view at the top of the fire tower is spectacular! Take your time and have fun. I would like to add that if you’re going to bring tissues or tp and utilize these items. Take them out with you.
The trail is well marked and maintained. It gets steep towards the top but nothing too difficult. The view at the top of the fire tower is spectacular! Take your time and have fun. I would like to add that if you’re going to bring tissues or tp and utilize these items. Take them out with you.
This was our first Adirondack hike and our little intro to big hiking before we attempt the 46. I have done quite a few hikes before and I will say that this trail is the most beautiful one I’ve ever done so far.
It can be very slippery on the rocks so wear good shoes and use a walking stick.
This was our first Adirondack hike and our little intro to big hiking before we attempt the 46. I have done quite a few hikes before and I will say that this trail is the most beautiful one I’ve ever done so far.
It can be very slippery on the rocks so wear good shoes and use a walking stick.
Great mountain. Tougher than advertised, but manageable for anyone in moderate to good health. Starts out slowly and then climbs. We liked that much of the hike, after mile 1, occurs on balds. But, beware, they can be treacherous where wet. This hike is doable for children and dogs, saw a good amount of both. Climb the well preserved fire tower to get the amazing views. 360 degrees of spectacular scenery, tremendous views of the High Peaks and Blue Mountain Lake, Eagle Lake, and Racquette Lake. Would add that, in our opinion, this is the best preserved fire tower we have seen yet. It’s also nice that there is a summit steward available to answer questions ( at least on the date of our hike: 6-19-2021). The guide book, and the sign at the trailhead, states this is a four mile out and back hike, but the “map my hike” app showed it as 4.42 miles. Anyway, wear proper footwear, bring water and snacks, and enjoy this fun and beautiful trail! Have fun.
Great mountain. Tougher than advertised, but manageable for anyone in moderate to good health. Starts out slowly and then climbs. We liked that much of the hike, after mile 1, occurs on balds. But, beware, they can be treacherous where wet. This hike is doable for children and dogs, saw a good amount of both. Climb the well preserved fire tower to get the amazing views. 360 degrees of spectacular scenery, tremendous views of the High Peaks and Blue Mountain Lake, Eagle Lake, and Racquette Lake. Would add that, in our opinion, this is the best preserved fire tower we have seen yet. It’s also nice that there is a summit steward available to answer questions ( at least on the date of our hike: 6-19-2021). The guide book, and the sign at the trailhead, states this is a four mile out and back hike, but the “map my hike” app showed it as 4.42 miles. Anyway, wear proper footwear, bring water and snacks, and enjoy this fun and beautiful trail! Have fun.
Very nice hike. Good path. Just strenuous enough for this senior citizen. A walking stick would have been useful. Definitely wear sturdy shoes with tread for gripping the rocky path. Great views at the top. Tower stairs refurbished. About 5 miles round trip. We did it in 4 hours with a picnic at the top. Today was not buggy and air was cool. Bonus at the top full cellular service as well as 4G data. Ironic since driving there we were off the grid. Download your maps before you leave home.
Very nice hike. Good path. Just strenuous enough for this senior citizen. A walking stick would have been useful. Definitely wear sturdy shoes with tread for gripping the rocky path. Great views at the top. Tower stairs refurbished. About 5 miles round trip. We did it in 4 hours with a picnic at the top. Today was not buggy and air was cool. Bonus at the top full cellular service as well as 4G data. Ironic since driving there we were off the grid. Download your maps before you leave home.
Great hike. First mile or so is gradual, then the ascent commences and gets steeper. Definitely a good work out. The trail is muddy this time of the year. The view is amazing from fire tower. Going down in my opinion was the hardest due to the steepness and slippery due to rain. It can be tricky. I would rate this hike a moderate to difficult (certain parts).
Great hike. First mile or so is gradual, then the ascent commences and gets steeper. Definitely a good work out. The trail is muddy this time of the year. The view is amazing from fire tower. Going down in my opinion was the hardest due to the steepness and slippery due to rain. It can be tricky. I would rate this hike a moderate to difficult (certain parts).