Smith Mountain Fire Tower, Hill Country Travel Guide

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Hike to panoramic views from a historic fire tower overlooking Alabama's Lake Martin and surrounding wilderness.

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Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Ascend the Smith Mountain Fire Tower, a historic landmark erected in 1939, for panoramic views of Lake Martin and the surrounding Talladega National Forest. Hike scenic trails, explore the area's Civilian Conservation Corps legacy, and immerse yourself in Alabama's natural beauty.

A brief summary to Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Jacksons' Gap, Alabama, 36861, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Smith Mountain Fire Tower.

Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the trails can be steep and rocky.
Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months.
Use insect repellent to protect against ticks and mosquitoes.
Be cautious on the Little Smith Mountain Loop Trail, as it has steep drop-offs.
Check the CRATA website for trail maps and updates.

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Explore Smith Mountain Fire Tower on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Smith Mountain Fire Tower, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Smith Mountain Fire Tower by car, navigate to Jacksons' Gap, AL. From U.S. Highway 280 in Dadeville, turn south onto AL Highway 49. At the blinking light, turn right onto W. Lafayette St. In 1.4 miles, turn left onto Young's Ferry Road. After 3.4 miles, turn left onto Smith Mountain Drive, then right onto Tower Road in 0.2 miles. Follow Tower Road to the parking lot at the trailhead. Parking is free and plentiful. From the parking lot, follow the Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail, a steep 0.4-mile hike to the tower. There are brown signs for the 'Historic Fire Tower' at every turn.
Boating

Access Smith Mountain Fire Tower by boat via Lake Martin. There is a small slough with wooden pillars near the 'Island Hop Trail' where boats can tie up. Space is limited, accommodating only two or three boats at a time. From the boat dock, follow the trails through the woods for a short hike up to the tower. The David M. Forker Island Hop/Boat Dock Trail from the parking lot is approximately 1.4 miles to the boat dock. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes, as the trail is steep and rocky. Docking is free, but remember to bring lines and fenders to protect your vessel.

Discover more about Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Smith Mountain Fire Tower, located near Dadeville, Alabama, offers visitors a unique blend of history and stunning natural beauty. Standing atop Smith Mountain, the highest point on Lake Martin, the 90-foot fire tower provides panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.Built in 1939, the Smith Mountain Fire Tower was part of a network of six towers designed to protect the millions of trees planted to combat soil erosion around Lake Martin. The Alabama Power Company partnered with various organizations, including the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), to reforest the area after extensive timber clearing in the early 20th century. The tower served as a crucial fire detection hub for four decades, with watchmen monitoring the forests and using a hand-cranked telephone system to alert fire crews.In 1980, the Alabama Forestry Service closed the tower, and the site fell into disrepair. However, in 2010, the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA) acquired the title to the tower and spearheaded its restoration. Thanks to dedicated volunteers and donors, the Smith Mountain Fire Tower has been fully restored and is now a popular attraction.Visitors can explore several hiking trails around Smith Mountain. The most direct route to the tower is the Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail, a steep 0.4-mile climb from the parking lot to the tower's base. Other trails include the Lakeshore Trail, which winds along the shores of Lake Martin, the David M. Forker Island Hop/Boat Dock Trail, and the more challenging Little Smith Mountain Loop Trail.At the base of the tower, visitors can find picnic areas, educational exhibits about the area's natural history, and the remains of the Alabama Division of Forestry's district office. Climbing the tower offers breathtaking views and a chance to sign the register at the top.