South Beacon Mountain Fire Tower

This is a great out and back hike to do anytime - early morning, after work or mid-day.

Parking: Walcott Ave (9D) & Howland Ave, Beacon, NY

Miles: 3.8

Hours: 2 - 3  

What I took:

• 1.5 liters of water

• snack

• a daypack (smaller backpack)

• first aid kit

• knife

• tape

• headlamp (for evening hike)

• compass

• map: New York New Jersey Trail Conference #102

• trekking poles

• synthetic clothing

• hiking boots or trail running shoes

• NO COTTON - Why no cotton? Cotton is a thicker material and isn't as breathable as synthetic material. Once it's wet, it becomes heavier and takes longer to dry.

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The trail begins beyond the parking lot.  Follow the gravelly road up to the metal stairs.  The slope of these stairs foreshadows your hike up the mountain: pretty steep and steady.  At the top of the stairs, begin your ascent up the mountain and its series of switchbacks.  The first will be a junction with a Yellow Trail.  Hook a sharp right and proceed up the hill, following the Red Casino Trail markers.

The rocks and boulders will continue to be scattered throughout the trail. After many switchbacks and more rocks, the remains of the old incline railway are found to your right, along with a fantastic scenic view of Beacon and vicinity. The railway served a casino located on the mountain from 1902-1975. Looking towards the southeast you will see the fire tower. It was only recently renovated and reopened to the public after many years of disrepair.

After you’ve caught your breath and taken in the view, continue up the trail following the Red markers. There are many unmarked side trails. Keep a constant eye for the Red trail blazes. At this point the trail begins to roll a bit, but the hills are a little steep.

Bear right here and continue to follow the Red Casino trail. 

Soon enough you will reach a clearing and a very cool Cairn Field, or a Field of Cairns if you will. Proceed forward to the final climb up South Beacon Mountain. More rocks! The summit is just ahead, and well worth the effort.

Here are the trails to the summit. Proceeding straight will lead to the White Breakneck Ridge trail.

A 360* view yields spectacular sights both east and west of the Hudson River. Climb the fire tower for an even better perspective. You will notice the ledge where the incline railway structure is, and you just were. Take some time to eat, drink and snap some photos. When you are ready, retrace your steps down the mountain on the Red Casino Trail.