Did a quick, local hike to the Beebe Hill Fire Tower after work with my dad on a mild Wednesday afternoon. The short access road off of Osmer Road was quite muddy and anyone with a low clearance vehicle should be careful entering. As always, the first feature of this pleasant hike is 6.5 acre Barrett Pond, which sits right next to the parking lot.
Across the parking lot is a small 19th century cemetery, which looks like it is well tended to.
The trail begins by crossing Indian Creek on a sturdy foot bridge.
The ascent is slow and steady through a hardwood forest. There was quite a bit of run off from recent snow melt and rains.
A very well built stone wall can be found directly beside part of the trail.
Arriving at the Lean To, which makes a nice, quiet spot to relax.
The Lean To can be found only about 15-20 yards off the main trail.
Opal Pond, with retreating ice.
After about one mile, we arrived at the open summit area, there is an old ranger cabin to the left, but to your right is the main feature, a 60 foot fire tower.
Although views from the true 1822 foot summit are minimal, once atop the fire tower, the views are broad and sweeping.
A look west towards Columbia County, with the Catskills in the distance.
Looking down...very steep.
A glance south, provides a view down towards the southern Taconics and Catamount Ski Area.
Patriotic art.
We opted to come down the access road/ horse trail to form a large loop. We passed old, crumbling stone walls as well as foundation remains.
More run off flowing down through the woods.
Hiked a little over 2 miles RT on a warm, late winter day. A light rain began to fall as we headed to the truck.
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