Alder Lake & Alder Lake Trail
Alder Lake to Balsam Lake Mountain Fire Tower is a 12.6 mile out and back trail located near Margaretville, New York that features a lake and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and backpacking. The trailhead is located off Cross Mountain Road. The parking area has room for about ten cars, but many other spots are found along the road as it widens near the parking area and an upper road.
Cross Mountain Road for part of its length is a seasonally maintained road which is essentially a single lane. At one point it drops off steeply with no guard rails and some road erosion. Even though it is a beautiful ride, one should question the risk. Other routes coming from route 28/30 such as via Big Pond may make more sense.
State carry-down off Rte 54, 2.5 miles northeast of Hamlet of Turnwood. Electric Motors Only. Parking for 10 cars.
For more information on the trail, visit their website.