Smith Mountain Fire Tower: A Historic Sentinel Over Lake Martin

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Experience history and breathtaking views atop the Smith Mountain Fire Tower, overlooking the scenic Lake Martin in Alabama.

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Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Climb the historic Smith Mountain Fire Tower for panoramic views of Lake Martin and the surrounding woodlands. This restored fire tower offers a glimpse into Alabama's past and a chance to experience the beauty of its natural landscape.

A brief summary to Smith Mountain Fire Tower

Jacksons' Gap, Alabama, 36861, US
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Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb to the tower and for exploring the surrounding hiking trails.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the longer trails.
Apply insect repellent to protect against ticks, mosquitoes, and red bugs.
Visit during the winter months to experience the unique Island Hop Trail when the lake water levels are low.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Smith Mountain Alpine Trail

Smith Mountain Alpine Trail: A Hike with History

Dare Park Point

Dare Park Point: Lakeside Recreation on Lake Martin

Dare Power Park

D.A.R.E. Power Park: A Lakeside Retreat

Getting There

Driving

To reach Smith Mountain Fire Tower by car, navigate to Jacksons' Gap, AL. From US Hwy 280 in Dadeville, turn south onto AL Hwy 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 Mtn. Drive, then in 0.2 miles, turn right onto Tower Road. Follow Tower Road to the parking lot at the base of Smith Mountain. Parking is free and plentiful. From the parking lot, follow the Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail, a steep 0.4-mile climb to the tower.
Public Transport

While direct public transportation to Smith Mountain Fire Tower is limited, ARISE, Inc. provides public mass transportation to Tallapoosa County, including Jacksons' Gap. This is a demand-response service, requiring a 24-hour advance reservation. Contact ARISE at 256-329-8444 for schedules and fare information. From the drop-off point in Jacksons' Gap, you may need to take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the tower. Taxi fare from Jacksons' Gap to Smith Mountain Fire Tower is approximately $20-$30. Uber and Lyft are available in Jacksons' Gap, but availability may be limited.

Discover more about Smith Mountain Fire Tower

The Smith Mountain Fire Tower, standing tall in Jacksons' Gap, Alabama, offers visitors a unique blend of history and stunning natural beauty. Erected in 1939 as a collaborative effort 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 four decades. Before Lake Martin was created, the area around Smith Mountain was heavily eroded due to timber clearing and poor agricultural practices. The construction of Martin Dam in 1926 exacerbated the problem, as eroded soil began filling the lake. To combat this, Alabama Power partnered with various organizations to reforest the land, leading to the establishment of the fire detection network. 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) took ownership and began restoring the tower. Today, the fully restored tower is open to the public, offering panoramic views of Lake Martin and the surrounding area. Visitors can climb the 111 steps to the top and take in the breathtaking scenery. The Smith Mountain site also offers several hiking trails, including the Walker Bynum Smith Mountain Tower Trail, a steep 0.4-mile climb to the tower's base. Other trails include the Lakeshore Trail, the David M. Forker Island Hop/Boat Dock Trail, and the Little Smith Mountain Loop Trail. Educational exhibits near the tower teach visitors about the area's natural history, ecosystems, and cultural landscapes.