Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest

Located in the southwest corner of the Catskill Park, Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest contains more than 13,500 acres of “forever wild” Forest Preserve. With an extensive trail network to several ponds, this wild forest is ideal for hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, backpacking, canoeing and cross-country skiing.

The Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest is located 8 miles south of Margaretville (Route 28) and 18 miles north of Livingston Manor (Route 17). It lies mainly within the western Ulster County town of Hardenburgh, with small appendages in the towns of Middletown and Andes in Delaware County.

The terrain is a combination of high mountain ridges, steep sided valleys, numerous brooks and ponds, with elevations ranging from a low of 1,740 feet along Mill Brook to a high of 3,723 feet at the summit of Balsam Lake Mountain.

Canoe

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This lake is popular with fishermen who like to fish it both from shore and by canoe. I saw two people in canoes on this particular day.

Taken on Sunday May 16, 2010 at Balsam Lake Mountain Wild Forest.

South

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Looking down and across the lake as morning arrives.

Taken on Sunday August 29, 2010 at Big Pond.

Rays of Sun

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Sparkle down on the lake as it continues to clear on out.

Taken on Sunday August 29, 2010 at Big Pond.

Night is Creeping Up on Me

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I didn't realize how quickly it got late at Big Pond, and I had even started dinner. To make matters worst, my white-gas lantern wouldn't start, so I had to do everything by flash light.

Taken on Saturday August 28, 2010 at Big Pond.