Wesser Bald Fire Tower

The road leading to the trailhead is rough the last mile, but doable in any car. Just make sure to take it easy going up and be careful, especially if there has been any rain or snow. You will have reached the parking area for the hike once you see a large green Appalachian Trail sign and a few parking spaces. The parking lot splits the Appalachian Trail, so even though you will be hiking on the Appalachian Trail you will want to take the the trail on the left, not the trail on the right marked by the large green Appalachian Trail sign to get to the Wesser Fire Tower. The trail on the left to the Wesser Fire Tower begins with a steep ascent and is marked by a few large rocks blocking the center of the trail to ensure motorized vehicles stay off.

The trail ascends the whole time at a good incline with little-to-no mountain views along the way. The incline is steep so leave plenty of time to get up. Once you have completed the 1.4 mile ascent with no turn-offs or branches on to other trails, it will open up and you will see the fire tower. The fire tower itself is unique because it has no walls or roof and the floor is quite expansive. This is a great place to camp and if the weather is good, you could even camp on top. If the weather isn't great, camping below is still very nice and there is a fire pit located under the tower. There are no water sources on top so make sure to bring plenty.

To return simply descend back down the 1.4 mile trail making no turns or cutoffs and you will reach your vehicle. If you have any extra time at the begging or ending of the hike take some time to explore Otter Creek as you come up the Otter Creek Road, where you can find lots of beautiful cascades and a few large unnamed waterfalls! As always make sure to leave the trail better than you found it.