2 nights at Alder Lake in the Catskills mountains. Thursday, meet at parking lot at 3 pm, and pick a campsite. There are about 10 primitive campsites around the lake, all within a mile walk. Friday we will do a 12 mile out and back day hike to balsam lake mountain fire tower. Friday evening we will return back to camp at the lake for one more night and leave Saturday morning.
I’ve chosen to do this hike on a Thursday to Saturday because it is known for getting filled up quick on summer weekends, and I want to be sure to secure parking spots and campsites.
Plan on swimming! I will for sure be bringing a floatie. Because it is such a short hike to camp, bring your luxury items! Food to cook over a fire, camp chair, floaties, fishing rod, hammock, etc.
If you want to be lazy and hang by the lake all day Friday, or just do part of the day hike with us Friday, then go for it. Customize to your liking.
I have heard that there is no cell service in this area, please download all maps, including your driving directions, ahead of time. Also, there is about a half mile dirt road to parking lot that has many potholes. From what I’ve read, people say go slow and you’ll be fine.
Carpooling is heavily encouraged! Bigger cars better for the dirt road.
Disclaimer: I have never been to this trail before, and as backpackers you already know, I cannot predict trail conditions, campsite conditions, or exactly how potholey this dirt road may be. I have done my best research and informed you all as much as I can. May the rest be an adventure.
Alder Lake to Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/new-york/alder-lake-to-balsam-lake-mountain-fire-tower?sh=8ste00&utm_medium=trail_share&utm_source=alltrails_virality
Great resource for alder lake
https://www.catskillmountaineer.com/BLMWF-alder-lake.html
