Balsam Lake
Catskills Fire Tower Challenge 2023
Everything you need to complete the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge.
18 Amazing Western Catskills Hikes
Some of the best day hikes are only a few hours from New York City. The Western Catskills have it all!
Thru-Hike Doubletop, Graham & Balsam Lake
This hike really has it all: stream crossings, herd paths, bear prints, a canister, a memorably steep descent, a true bushwhack, a rugged ascent, an ice grotto, some old ruins and, to top it all off, a fire tower with amazing sunset views.
Balsam Lake Fire Tower
Even light snow cover turns Balsam Lake into a glittering winter wonderland. And it’s a cinch to hike. A cold fall morning is the perfect time to take in the fire tower’s incredible 360° view. Winter hikes to the tower are absolutely spectacular.
Trail Maintenance, Balsam Lake, Fall 2019
Finished my 2019 maintenance by tidying up a few things between the two junctions on the south side of Balsam Lake. When I first took on this trail section in the spring, it hadn’t been tended to in many years and was very overgrown.
Graham Mountain & Balsam Lake Hiking Trail
This long day-hike combines Graham and a loop around Balsam Lake’s summit. Permission is required to hike on Graham Mountain.
