If you’re looking for a shorter Catskills hike with a big payoff, the Red Hill Fire Tower from Denning Road is a great choice. This well-marked, moderate route climbs through quiet forest, up rocky stretches, and finishes at one of the best fire tower viewpoints in the Catskills.
The out-and-back is about 4 miles round-trip with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The trail sees good use year-round, and its steady grade makes it a solid option for hikers in every season, from summer days to crisp fall weekends and winter snowshoe outings.
The hike begins at the Red Hill Fire Tower parking area off Denning Road, a relatively new lot that makes access much easier than in the past. From the trailhead, follow the blue-blazed Red Hill Tower Trail as it climbs gently through hemlock and hardwood forest.
The first section feels mellow, which is a nice way to settle into your pace no matter the time of year. The trail is well-marked, but it still has plenty of character, with rocky sections, small rolls, and occasional steeper bits that keep things interesting.
Into the Forest and Up the Ridge
As you climb higher, the trail begins to work its way up the ridge that leads to the summit. The route moves through a mix of open and wooded sections, with views opening up through the trees toward the surrounding forest and hills.
In fall, the views are often filled with colorful foliage. In spring and summer, the forest is lush and green, with birdsong and a quieter, more shaded feel. Whatever the season, the steady climb gives you time to tune into the rhythm of the hike.
The out-and-back is about 4 miles round-trip with roughly 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The trail sees good use year-round, and its steady grade makes it a solid option for hikers in every season, from summer days to crisp fall weekends and winter snowshoe outings.
Red Hill Fire Tower Hike Summary
Getting Started
- Trailhead: Red Hill Fire Tower parking area on Denning Road, Claryville, NY (Google Maps)
- Route: Blue-blazed Red Hill Tower Trail to the summit fire tower, then return.
- Distance: About 4 miles round-trip.
- Elevation Gain: About 1,200 feet.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- AllTrails Information: Trail Route and Information in AllTrails
- Best For: Hikers looking for a scenic fire tower with 360-degree views in any season.
The hike begins at the Red Hill Fire Tower parking area off Denning Road, a relatively new lot that makes access much easier than in the past. From the trailhead, follow the blue-blazed Red Hill Tower Trail as it climbs gently through hemlock and hardwood forest.
The first section feels mellow, which is a nice way to settle into your pace no matter the time of year. The trail is well-marked, but it still has plenty of character, with rocky sections, small rolls, and occasional steeper bits that keep things interesting.
Into the Forest and Up the Ridge
As you climb higher, the trail begins to work its way up the ridge that leads to the summit. The route moves through a mix of open and wooded sections, with views opening up through the trees toward the surrounding forest and hills.
In fall, the views are often filled with colorful foliage. In spring and summer, the forest is lush and green, with birdsong and a quieter, more shaded feel. Whatever the season, the steady climb gives you time to tune into the rhythm of the hike.
The Final Push to the Summit
After roughly 1.4 miles on the blue trail, you reach a junction with the older yellow-blazed route. From here, keep right and follow the trail as it steepens for the final push to the summit.
This last stretch is the most strenuous part of the hike. The grade is steady, and the footing can be slick in mud, ice, or snow depending on the season. In winter, traction or snowshoes may be needed, but in most conditions the trail is straightforward and well within reach for hikers used to moderate terrain.
At the Fire Tower
The summit is home to the Red Hill Fire Tower, a 60-foot tower built in the early 1920s and now part of the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge. The tower offers 360-degree views, with the Catskill High Peaks to the west and north and the Rondout Reservoir to the southeast.
On a clear day, the view from the tower is hard to beat. The surrounding landscape is often a patchwork of forest, wetlands, and distant ridgelines, making it one of the most photogenic and rewarding fire tower views in the region.
This last stretch is the most strenuous part of the hike. The grade is steady, and the footing can be slick in mud, ice, or snow depending on the season. In winter, traction or snowshoes may be needed, but in most conditions the trail is straightforward and well within reach for hikers used to moderate terrain.
At the Fire Tower
The summit is home to the Red Hill Fire Tower, a 60-foot tower built in the early 1920s and now part of the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge. The tower offers 360-degree views, with the Catskill High Peaks to the west and north and the Rondout Reservoir to the southeast.
On a clear day, the view from the tower is hard to beat. The surrounding landscape is often a patchwork of forest, wetlands, and distant ridgelines, making it one of the most photogenic and rewarding fire tower views in the region.
Why It’s Worth It
Red Hill Fire Tower is a strong hike because it balances effort and reward. The trail is challenging enough to feel like a real workout, but not so extreme that it shuts out most hikers.
It’s a great choice in any season, whether you’re chasing summer views, fall color, or a quiet winter snowshoe. The trail is well-marked, the distance is reasonable, and the view from the top makes every step feel worthwhile.
Red Hill Fire Tower is a strong hike because it balances effort and reward. The trail is challenging enough to feel like a real workout, but not so extreme that it shuts out most hikers.
It’s a great choice in any season, whether you’re chasing summer views, fall color, or a quiet winter snowshoe. The trail is well-marked, the distance is reasonable, and the view from the top makes every step feel worthwhile.
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Important Hiking Considerations:
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. Weather can be unpredictable, so bring appropriate clothing and gear.
- Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so use caution and watch your footing. It's also a good idea to hike with a friend or let someone know about your hiking plans.
- Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.
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