Lighting Up History: Adirondack Fire Towers
During Labor Day weekend, dozens of fire towers will be illuminated simultaneously as part of an annual tradition.
Hadley Fire Tower.
Every year, as summer transitions into fall, a unique event occurs across the New York State and in the Adirondacks, reminding us of the region’s storied past and its enduring commitment to preservation.
On a designated evening near Labor Day, dozens of fire towers throughout the Adirondacks and the State of New York are illuminated simultaneously.
This annual tradition, organized by the New York State Chapter of the Forest Fire Lookout Association (NYSFFLA), brings together communities and history enthusiasts to celebrate the legacy of these iconic structures that once served as sentinels of the wilderness.
Fire towers: A vital role in Adirondack forests.
Panoramic view from an Adirondack fire tower.
Fire towers have been crucial to forest management in the United States since the early 20th century. They were erected in response to a series of devastating forest fires that swept through the country in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
As a result, fire towers became a primary means of spotting and reporting forest fires before they could spread uncontrollably. These towers, located on high peaks and in strategic locations, provided lookouts with a commanding view of the surrounding landscape.
In the Adirondacks, the construction of fire towers began in earnest during the early 1900s. The first recorded fire tower in the region was built in 1909 entirely out of logs near Tupper Lake on Mount Morris.
Hurricane Mountain Fire Tower in the Adirondacks.
Beginning in 1916, the log structures were gradually replaced with steel towers made from interchangeable parts. The towers also led to the establishment of a full-time protection force of Forest Rangers and Fire Observers.
The first observation station was set up on Poke-O-Moonshine in 1912 and later replaced in 1917 with a standardized steel tower.
According to Adirondack Architectural Heritage, the Forest Ranger force members performed practically all of the labor to erect the fire towers under the supervision of Forest Ranger Albert Tebeau of Owls Head, who traveled across the state directing local rangers.
The cost of a steel fire tower, not including ranger labor, averaged about $530. The cost of restoration is estimated at ten times that amount.
Poke-O-Moonshine's fire tower.
By the 1930s, over 55 towers dotted the Adirondack Mountains, manned by vigilant observers who scanned the horizon for any sign of smoke.
The lookouts were vital in protecting the vast forested areas of the Adirondack Park, particularly during the dry summer months when the fire risk peaked.
The decline of Adirondack fire towers.
Despite their initial importance, the role of fire towers began to diminish in the mid-20th century with the advent of new technologies. The development of aerial surveillance, improved communication systems, and more efficient fire-fighting methods gradually rendered the towers obsolete.
By the 1970s, many towers had been decommissioned; by the 1990s, most had fallen into disuse. The number of fire towers in the Adirondacks dwindled significantly from its peak, with only a fraction remaining.
Fire towers in the Adirondacks today.
Of the 57 original steel Adirondack towers, 34 are still standing today, and some have been restored and reopened to the public thanks to the efforts of various preservation groups and volunteers. These restored towers have become popular destinations for hikers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness and a tangible connection to the region’s history.
Some well-known Adirondack fire towers include Blue Mountain, Owl’s Head, and St. Regis. Each tower has its unique story and provides visitors with a glimpse into the past, where lookouts would spend hours scanning the horizon for signs of smoke, ready to spring into action at the first hint of danger.
Celebrating natural beauty and the importance of conservation.
Lighting the night at Kane Fire Tower near Caroga Lake. Photo by Debi Tebano,
The lighting of the fire towers serves multiple purposes. It celebrates the region’s natural beauty and reminds people of the importance of conservation.
The event fosters a sense of community, drawing together people of all ages who share a love for the outdoors and a respect for the history of the Adirondacks. Locals and visitors participate in viewing these iconic symbols of forest stewardship.
The NYSFFLA’s commitment to this event underscores the organization’s mission to preserve and promote the history of fire lookouts.
By lighting the fire towers annually, the NYSFFLA ensures that these structures' legacy and crucial role in forest protection are not forgotten.
Make the most of Light the Night 2024.
The NYS Chapter of the Forest Fire Lookout Association has scheduled the 11th Annual Lighting of the Fire Tower Event on Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 9 pm.
To observe this magnificent sight, visit the communities listed on the NYSFFLA website.
Please remember this is not a hiking event; it’s tailored for individuals to view from a distance, gazing upward and reflecting as they witness the radiant light emanating from the fire tower.
Experiencing the Adirondack Fire Tower lighting is a unique and memorable event that can be enjoyed from various locations throughout the region. To participate, consider the following tips:
Plan Your Viewing Spot. The towers are visible from many locations, but some spots offer better views than others. Popular viewing areas include mountain summits, open fields, and lakeshores. Some people stake out a vantage point during the day, set up a picnic, and wait for dusk.
Check for Participating Towers. Not all fire towers are each year, so it’s a good idea to check which towers will be participating in advance. The NYSFFLA publishes a list of participating towers and information on the best viewing locations.
Bring Binoculars. While the towers are visible to the naked eye, binoculars can enhance the experience, allowing you to see the lights more clearly and pick out details of the surrounding landscape.
Prepare for the Elements. Early September in the Adirondacks can bring cool temperatures, especially after the sun sets. Dress in layers, bring a blanket or two and pack a thermos of hot cocoa (or a hot toddy if you’re not driving) to stay warm as you enjoy the event.
Share the Experience. The fire tower lighting is a perfect opportunity to share a unique experience with family and friends. Whether you’re an avid photographer, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the Adirondacks, there’s something magical about watching the fire towers light up the night.
The annual lighting of the Adirondack fire towers is more than just a nostalgic nod to the past; it is a celebration of the enduring spirit of the Adirondacks.
As the lights flicker on and illuminate the darkening sky, they remind the region of its commitment to its natural heritage and the enduring allure of the Adirondack wilderness.
Fire Towers light up the Adirondack Night. Video courtesy Mountain Lake PBS.
Adirondack Fire Towers Participating.
The current list of participating fire towers includes:
Mount Arab (Visible from Route 3 west of Tupper Lake - Piercefield Flow)
Adams (Visible from Tahawus Road in Newcomb)
Adirondack History Museum in Elizabethtown
Hurricane (Visible from Route 73 near the Village of Keene)
Makomis (new installation in Speculator)
Mt. Morris (a/k/a Big Tupper - Visible from Tupper Lake)
Owl's Head (Visible From Lake Eaton State Park beach in Long Lake - Mt. Sabattis side)
St. Regis (Visible from Paul Smith's VIC)
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