Fire Tower Trail

The Fire Tower Trail begins just off the parking lot at the base of the old fire tower and runs to the Class A Campground. Look for the wooden entrance gateway. The trail starts with a smooth, downhill, curvy segment weaving through a large hardwood forest, with numerous creek crossings and drains to be aware of. As the trail approaches the bluffs overlooking the Blue River, users will encounter more rocky conditions before arriving at a short rock feature that spans a wet area along the steep cliff side. This attention-demanding segment of the trail continues along the edge of the bluff for a short distance before reaching another smoother, easier section. A side trail on the right leads to a scenic overlook. After a gradual climb to the Iron Bridge Road crossing, the trail continues to twist and turn and descends into a series of curves, toward a wooden bridge and an intersection with the Rocky Ridge Loop. Proceeding up the left fork at the intersection, Fire Tower Trail leads to the campground, the Potato Run Trail and the Breeden Ridge Trail, while a right turn will lead into the Rocky Ridge Loop. The trail twists and winds through another section of rocky limestone outcroppings before climbing to the other intersection with the Rocky Ridge Loop. Proceeding left at the fork, Fire Tower Trail continues to climb toward the campground, where water and restrooms are available. The Potato Run Trail is accessed by hiking a short distance to the left up one of the campground roads. The entrance is near the ice machine, by the campground gatehouse.