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Smith Mountain Fire Tower: A Sentinel Over Lake Martin

Hike through history and ascend to breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Martin from atop the iconic Smith Mountain Fire Tower.

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The Smith Mountain Fire Tower, standing tall near Jacksons' Gap, Alabama, offers panoramic views of Lake Martin and the surrounding landscape. This historic tower, originally built in 1939, has been restored and is open to the public, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

A brief summary to Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy hiking boots for the steep climb to the tower and to navigate the sometimes rugged trails.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities available on-site.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe hiking experience.
  • Take time to read the informative displays about the tower's history and the surrounding ecosystem.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Dadeville, 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. In 0.2 miles, turn right onto Tower Road. Follow Tower Road to the parking lot at the Smith Mountain trailhead. From the parking lot, it is a steep, 0.4-mile hike to the base of the tower. Parking is free.

  • Boating

    Boaters on Lake Martin can access Smith Mountain via the Sandy Creek area near Dadeville. Head towards coordinates 32°48'26.2"N 85°50'39.8"W to find pilings provided by Alabama Power Company. Tie up to the pilings and follow the marked hiking trail, about a half-mile through the forest, to the tower. Be prepared to wade through waist-deep water to access the trail from the boat dock.

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Discover more about Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Perched atop Smith Mountain, the Smith Mountain Fire Tower offers visitors a rewarding blend of history and stunning natural beauty. Built in 1939 as a cooperative project between the Alabama Power Company, the Tallapoosa County Forest Conservation Association, and the Alabama Forestry Commission, the 90-foot tower served as a crucial fire detection point for over four decades. Initially, the tower was part of a network designed to protect the millions of newly planted trees around Lake Martin, which were planted to combat soil erosion after the lake's creation. The location also housed the district office of the Alabama Division of Forestry. Over time, aerial patrols and improved telephone service diminished the need for fire towers, and the Smith Mountain tower was closed in 1980. In 2010, the Cherokee Ridge Alpine Trail Association (CRATA) acquired the site and began restoring the tower, transforming it into a major tourist attraction. Today, visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Martin and the surrounding woodlands. The site also features hiking trails, including the steep 0.4-mile Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail leading to the tower's base, and the 2.4-mile Lakeshore Trail that winds along the lake's shoreline. The tower is surrounded by a native longleaf pine forest and large granite deposits, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

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