On July 2, 2016 the fire tower on Stillwater Mountain opened to the public after volunteers worked to refurbish the fire tower so it can be enjoyed by the public. A new hiking trail was constructed that is just under a mile to the tower. There is an elevation gain of about 530 feet for this hike. The fire tower has been added to the popular Adirondack Fire Tower Challenge. The fire tower is located in the Independence River Wild Forest.

Currently there is a trailhead along Big Moose Road. The GPS coordinates of the small parking area is N43 52.323 W75 01.624. The hiking trail is well graded and eventually reaches the old trail. The trail is marked with blue DEC plastic markers. The old trail is utilized on the final stretch to reach the fire tower. The fire tower on the 2264 foot Stillwater Mountain was closed in 1988. The parking area is located on state land and the trail is located on conservation easement land. There is a picnic table next to the fire tower for those who want to enjoy a picnic at the summit. The trail and the tower is CLOSED every year from the second Tuesday in October thru December 20.

Directions from the Old Forge/Inlet area take NY 28 north. Turn left on Big Moose Road in Eagle Bay. The trailhead parking area is about 8 miles from Big Moose Station or about 15.8 miles from NY 28. The GPS coordinates of the small parking area is N43 52.323 W75 01.624.

Directions from Lowville area take Number Four Road to Stillwater Road. Turn right on Big Moose Road. The trailhead parking area is about two miles on Big Moose Road. The GPS coordinates of the small parking area is N43 52.323 W75 01.624.

Big Moose Road is plowed in the winter. At the end of Stillwater Road, which is about two miles from the trailhead, you'll find gas, a store, restaurant, lodging and a DEC boat lunch. There is boat/canoe/kayak rentals as well as bathrooms. Along the shores of Stillwater Reservoir are 45 primitive designated campsites.

Stillwater Mountain Fire Tower (picture courtesy of Jake Wilde)

Start of the Stillwater Mountain Trail

Flag and view from Stillwater Mountain Fire Tower