UPPER ESOPUS FIRE TOWER – TOWN OF SHANDAKEN – ELEVATION 670’

• History: The Upper Esopus Fire Tower was a fire tower used for fire surveillance in Venice, Florida that was completely restored for its new home in the Catskills. It was rebuilt on the grounds at the Catskills Visitor Center in the fall of 2019. This 80-foot steel tower is a great way for visitors to enjoy a rewarding view of the area only about a quarter of a mile walk from the parking area.
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• Summer/Fall 2023: The staircase is open at the Catskills Visitor Center’s Fire Tower. A Fire Tower Steward opens the top cab on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
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• Hiking Directions: From the parking lot of the Catskills Visitor Center, walk about a quarter of a mile on the red-blazed Interpretive Loop Trail (trail map here).