The 2537 acre Grafton Lakes State Park features five scenic ponds and over 25 miles of hiking trails. The state park is located on a forested mountain ridge between the Taconic and Hudson Valley's, east of Troy.  Long Pond is a very popular summer destination with its large sandy beach. The fire tower at Dickinson Hill is located just east of the state park, with a trail that starts off North Long Pond Road.

The most popular hike at Grafton Lakes State Park is the 2.5 mile Long Pond Loop, although you can create your own adventure with the many hiking trails in the park.  We suggest doing the loop around Shaver Pond as a change of pace. The Dickinson Hill Fire Tower Trail follows the rough western section of Fire Tower Road, while you could drive to within 750 feet of the fire tower by driving Fire Tower Road from the east. Be warned that there is very limited shoulder parking for maybe two vehicles.

Look below for a few pictures and the trail map of Grafton Lakes State Park.

Directions:  The main park entrance is off NY 2 east of Troy.

Shaver Pond

Picnic table on Mill Pond

Mud Pond at Grafton Lakes State Park