High Towers State Forest

• Open for recreation: Year-round

• Fee: Free
• Contact Information:
  • DEC Region 6 Lowville Office (M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM), (315) 376-3521; [email protected]
  • Search, rescue, wildfire, and enforcement matters: 911- or - 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) 
    A local Forest Ranger is a valuable source of information for the state land you would like to visit.
• Location: Town of Lyonsdale, Lewis County
• Wildlife Management Unit: 6J
• Map: High Towers State Forest Map (GeoPDF) - GeoPDF Instructions || Google Earth || DECinfo Locator

This 729-acre state forest is named for the tall electric towers that were constructed on the area many years ago. Since that time, newer and higher towers have been constructed adjacent to the originals, but the name has persisted. The diverse landscape provides opportunities for a range of recreational experiences.

Directions

From Lyons Falls, take Co Rt. 39 (Lyons Falls Road) north. Proceed 1.5 miles.

Public access is provided via the Beech Flat Road (0.8 mile), the High Towers Road (0.2 mile), and the Austrian Trail (0.3 mile); however, there are no official parking areas on this unit.

• Shibley Rd. and Town Line Rd. intersection (43.646376°N, 75.320602°W) Google Maps

All coordinates provided are in decimal degrees using NAD83/WGS84 datum.

Rules, Regulations and Outdoor Safety

Practice Leave No Trace Principles when recreating on state land to enjoy the outdoors responsibly, minimize impact on the natural resources and avoid conflicts with other users.

All users of High Towers State Forest must follow all State Land Use Regulations and should follow all Outdoor Safety Practices for the safety of the user and protection of the resource.

Specific Rules

Mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling are allowed on the property; however, there are no trails on this property currently maintained for these activities.

Planning and Management

DEC manages these lands in accordance with the management activities described in the Westward Waters Unit Management Plan. In addition to management objectives, the UMP contains detailed information on natural features, recreational infrastructure, geology, natural and human history, habitats, wildlife, fisheries and much more.

If you have questions and/or comments about this UMP, please email us at [email protected].

Timber Management

The underlying soils here are mostly sandy and deep, making for a well drained site capable of producing quality timber. The majority of trees consist of natural hardwoods such as hard maple, white ash, black cherry, soft maple, and some red oak, with a much lesser amount of pine plantations. Carefully controlled timber sales conducted by DEC's foresters have produced significant quality saw timber over the years, while achieving the goal of improving forest health and vigor.

Nearby State Lands, Facilities, Amenities and Other Information

State Lands and Facilities

• Otter Creek State Forest
• Lesser Wilderness State Forest
• Independence River Wild Forest
• Sand Flats State Forest
• Black River Wild Forest
• Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness

Where to Find Nearby Facilities

• Lodging, dining opportunities, gas, food and other supplies can be found in the nearby community of Lyons Falls.

Adirondacks Tug Hill can provide information about other recreation, attractions and amenities in this area.

Numerous guidebooks and maps are available with information on the lands, waters, trails and other recreational facilities in this area. These can be purchased at most outdoor equipment retailers, bookstores and on-line booksellers.

Additional information, outdoor equipment, trip suggestions and guided or self-guided tours may be obtained from outdoor guide and outfitting businesses. Check area chambers of commerce, telephone directories or search the internet for listings.

Consider hiring an outdoor guide if you have little experience or woodland skills. See the NYS Outdoor Guides Association for information on outdoor guides.