Smith Mountain Fire Tower: A Historic Sentinel Over Lake Martin
Hike to history: Ascend Smith Mountain Fire Tower for panoramic Lake Martin views and a glimpse into Alabama's conservation past.
The Smith Mountain Fire Tower, located in Jacksons' Gap, Alabama, offers panoramic views of Lake Martin and the surrounding woodlands. Built in 1939, the 90-foot tower stands as a historic landmark and a testament to forest conservation efforts in the region [3, 14].
A brief summary to Smith Mountain Fire Tower
- Jacksons' Gap, Alabama, 36861, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trail to the tower is steep and rocky in places [15, 19].
- Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months, to stay hydrated and energized [19].
- Take time to read the educational exhibits at the base of the tower to learn about the area's history and ecology [3].
- Be cautious when climbing the tower, especially if you are afraid of heights [19].
- Consider visiting during the spring to see the breathtaking display of mountain laurel in bloom [4].
Getting There
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Driving
From Dadeville, AL, travel south on AL Hwy 49. Turn right onto W. Lafayette St. After 1.4 miles, turn left onto Young's Ferry Road. In 3.4 miles, turn left onto Smith Mtn. Drive, then a quick right onto Tower Road. Follow Tower Road to the parking lot at the base of Smith Mountain [4, 13]. Parking is free and plentiful [3].
-
Hiking
From the parking lot, follow the Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail, a steep 0.4-mile climb to the base of the fire tower [3, 5]. The trail is well-maintained and marked with white blazes [13, 19]. No fees are required.
Discover more about Smith Mountain Fire Tower
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