Join Moe Lemire, NYS Licensed Guide and founder of Hike On Guides, for a winter ascent of Balsam Lake Mountain, home to the first mountain fire tower in New York State. Along the way, you’ll learn about historic logging operations, log decks, and the point on the trail where you cross into remarkable first-growth forest. This hike offers both a unique educational experience and the beauty of a Catskills fire tower in winter.

When: Friday March 6, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Balsam Lake Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Distance: 5.9 Miles Round Trip

A gear list will be emailed before the program, but please arrive prepared with non-cotton layers, a warm hat, gloves, a winter coat, sturdy footwear, and enough water, snacks, and lunch for the day. If snowshoes and/or microspikes are needed and you do not have them, rentals are conveniently available at the Catskills Visitor Center. 

Join us for a rewarding winter hike rich with Catskills history and scenic fire tower views!

Advance registration is required, with a $10 suggested donation.