Elmore Mountain Loop

From the trailhead, follow the Fire Tower Trail.The Fire Tower Trail begins immediately with a steadily increasing grade. The trail is rocky and rooted. The trail will climb consistently until around 0.9 miles, where the climb will become much steeper involving rocky stair ledges.After the first steep section, there will be a scenic viewpoint at the site of a former cabin site. You can see the old foundation still remains. Past the viewpoint is the last leg involving another steep section that leads straight to the trail junction between the Fire Tower Trail and the Ridge Trail. Instead of veering north on the Ridge Trail, veer south 0.1 miles to the Elmore Fire Tower where you can climb to the top and experience 360-degree panoramic views of Elmore State Park and the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys.When leaving the fire tower, continue north on the Ridge Trail. The Ridge Trail traverses the northern ridge of Elmore Mountain. The first section of the trail ebbs and flows as it gradually descends in elevation passing scenic overlooks and the Balancing Rock landmark. The trail becomes a little steeper near the end of the ridge but empties out into open forest. The remaining trail is an easy forest hike back to the Fire Tower Trail. Follow the Fire Tower Trail back to the parking area.