Hike to Beebe Hill Fire Tower

The forest fire observatory on Beebe Hill operated continuously from April of 1964 until the end of the 1987 fire season. Prior to 1964 the fire tower was located on the summit of Alander Mountain from 1928 through 1930 and on Washburn Mountain from 1933 until November 1963. Ten years after the closing of the facility, local residents came together to restore the fire tower and observer's cabin. This group also created the hiking trail system throughout the Beebe Hill State Forest.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/8/6/c/600_112206252.jpeg The hike begins at the parking area near Barrett Pond. We will hike approximately 1 mile to the summit. The elevation gain is about 300 feet in this short distance. The view from the fire tower is spectacular.

We will also be taking a side trail. It will add about one hour to the hike. You may elect to return to your vehicle before we continue on if you would like. The side trail is short but the elevation gain of about 200 feet is completed in a short distance.

Map link: http://www.dec.ny.gov/lands/66468.html

Beebe Hill and Barrett Pond is on County Route 5. The easiest way to get there is by taking I-90 to exit B3 and take Route 22 South. Approximately 5.6 miles from Exit B3 you will take a very sharp right turn onto County Route 5 (also called Osmer Road) It is not well marked. If you get to Route 203 you have gone too far, turn around and go about 1 mile and you will see CR 5 on your left. Follow that for about 1.6 miles. Barrett Pond will be on your left. At the far end of Barrett Pond will be an access road on the left (Beebe Forest Road), that is the road to the trailhead.

GPS coordinates at the parking lot are N42.20.346; W073.28.428

Minimum age is 8 (8-15 yrs must have a participating adult with them, 16-17 yrs must have a parent/guardian sign participant agreement but do not need to attend)

•please be dressed for the weather, we will go rain or shine
•Dress in layers
•wear appropriate hiking footwear
•please bring water, snacks and any personal medicines you may need as well as sunscreen, rain gear, day pack.
•camera and/or binoculars if you have them

If you have any trouble finding me, my cell is 203-249-2138, feel free to call or text during the meetup times, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm. Look for my silver Subaru outback!