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Hike to the Smith Mountain Fire Tower (Lake Martin)

Jacksons' Gap, Alabama

4.4/5
based on 7 reviews

Details

Distance

0.8 miles

Elevation Gain

215 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Edward Day

Climb the 80 foot Smith Mountain Fire Tower to get a gorgeous view of one of the largest man made lakes in the United States.

The Smith Mountain Fire Tower is the perfect location to get a glimpse of the vastness of one of the largest man made lakes in the United States. From the parking lot, the stroll up to the base of the fire tower follows a steep pathway for about a half mile. The hike is very easy to follow and there is plenty of parking.

In addition to the fire tower, there is also several boulders for climbers to explore. There are not many established routes through here and most spots around the boulders need some work to be able to have room to climb, but there are several climbable boulders. There is also one route that is bolted at the top for top roping.

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Features

Rock Climbing
Chillin
Photography
Hiking
Forest
Groups
Lake
Scenic

Reviews

The hike is short but has amazing views, definitely dog friendly! Has a ton of historical facts once you read the top of the mountain!

It's not worth a long trip just for the tower, but there is some other trails in very close proximity. There is a great 360 degree view of lake Martin from the top of the tower. It is a short fairly easy hike.

This fire tower is fairly new and well constructed. The hike is easy enough to do in about 10 minutes and offers the best view of Lake Martin. Wouldn't make a day trip just for this, but if you're in the area, don't pass this up!

I am so much for lookout towers and special views. By looking at the pictures this tower has an amazing view. Must do!!

Loved the hike, wasn't strenuous and it was a gorgeous view. Loved the other trails around the area as well.

Great views anytime of day but especially sunsets. There are also a few trails around the area. One of those is the shoreline trail that leads to an island-hop trail that you can wade/swim to a small island when the water is low enough.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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