• Hike distance: 2 miles round trip

• Difficulty: moderate

The Rondaxe Fire Tower sits atop Bald Mountain and is a relatively short hike with beautiful panoramic views.

The trail to the summit is about 1 mile each way and is generally considered moderately difficult. It's a popular hike and can be quite busy in peak season. The trail begins in a mixed hardwood forest and ascends through a forest of conifer and stunted hardwoods at higher elevations.

From the fire tower, you have a 360-degree view of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, the vast forests of the Adirondacks, and some of the High Peaks in the distance.

The fire tower is about 35 feet tall and was originally constructed in 1912.

Like many fire towers in New York State, the Rondaxe Fire Tower was decommissioned in the 1980s. Since then, it's been restored and maintained for it's historical significance.

As always, be sure to respect all trail signs and markers, stay on the trail, and follow Leave No Trace principles.