Catskills Fire Tower Challenge Returns for 2025
About the Challenge
The Catskills Fire Tower Challenge is returning for 2025, bringing in visitors from all over New York and 10 states and countries to the Catskill Mountains. The challenge was launched in 2019 to promote physical and mental health, and to introduce more people to the natural wonders of the Catskill Mountains.
What’s Included
The challenge encourages hikers to visit the fire towers on six mountains in the Catskill Mountains:
- Balsam Lake Mountain in Hardenburgh
- Hunter Mountain in Hunter
- Overlook Mountain in Woodstock
- Red Hill Mountain in Denning
- Tremper Mountain in Shandaken
- The Upper Esopus Fire Tower at the Catskills Visitor Center in Mt. Tremper
How to Participate
To participate, hikers must visit all six fire towers between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025. Participants can submit their hike log and favorite photo to CatskillsChallenge@dec.ny.gov. Entries must be sent by January 5, 2026.
Prizes
Finishers who complete the challenge will receive a letter and a commemorative patch. Additionally, the first 1,000 finishers will also receive a one-year subscription to DEC’s Conservationist Magazine. Those who finish the challenge multiple times will receive an additional prize. DEC will also offer a bonus prize entry to finishers who submit a photo of themselves practicing Leave No Trace while participating in the challenge.
Conclusion
The Catskills Fire Tower Challenge is a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains and to promote physical and mental health. With prizes and recognition for finishers, this challenge is a great way to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Catskills Fire Tower Challenge?
A: The Catskills Fire Tower Challenge is a hiking challenge that encourages visitors to visit the six fire towers in the Catskill Mountains.
Q: When can I participate in the challenge?
A: The challenge takes place between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025.
Q: How do I participate in the challenge?
A: To participate, hikers must visit all six fire towers and submit their hike log and favorite photo to CatskillsChallenge@dec.ny.gov.
Q: What are the prizes for completing the challenge?
A: Finishers will receive a letter and a commemorative patch. Additionally, the first 1,000 finishers will also receive a one-year subscription to DEC’s Conservationist Magazine.
Q: Can I participate in the challenge multiple times?
A: Yes, participants can complete the challenge multiple times and receive additional prizes.
