Mount Tremper Fire Observation Station, historic fire observation station on Mount Tremper
Mount Tremper Fire Observation Station is a 47-foot (14 meters) tall steel structure on Tremper Mountain in the Catskills. The structure was built by the Aermotor Corporation and sits at about 2700 feet (823 meters) elevation overlooking surrounding mountain ranges.
The station was built in 1917 to spot and prevent forest fires early. It played an important role monitoring forests for decades but was decommissioned in 1971 when more modern technology became available.
The name Tremper comes from early settlers in the region. The tower itself is a simple, functional structure that reflects the practical approach of its time and shows how people monitored the landscape.
The hike begins at a trailhead on Ulster County Route 40 and follows a red-marked path about 3.4 miles long. The terrain is rocky and the walk is considered moderate to difficult. Comfortable hiking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are important, especially since mountain conditions can change quickly.
The site is home to timber rattlesnakes that prefer warm, rocky areas and rest hidden among the stones. Visitors should watch their step carefully and keep pets on a leash to avoid encounters with these animals.
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