Fire Tower — Attraction in Shelburne

Easily in the top ten views of Western Massachusetts. It's open to the public 24/7 and has benches at the base to rest after hiking. The view is only attained through the stone windows, but offers a 360 degree view of the best part of Massachusetts. The temperature on top of the tower is always cold, regardless of the season. On top you'll find some slightly exposed electrical equipment for the fire lookout above the view area, avoid touching this.

Best route: Park on Tower RD near Davenport Maple Farm Follow the dirt road going through Davenport, past a house further up the hill, and then continue up the path. Pass a cell tower and station, keeping to the left going uphill Pass a small building with a yellow door, continuing uphill You'll arrive

This route cuts literally an hour off the hike and isn't generally swamped by tourists. Just be respectful of the people that live on the route: don't be loud and virtually sneak through. Leave the cows alone.

Pros: Top ten view Not a difficult hike

Cons: Can't go in the fire lookout Cold as sin all the time Virtually impossible in the...

Parking should be advertised. Only found it because I read the reviews. There is only limited parking - on the side of a road. The trails were awesome! Nicely marked and well maintained! The tower was open... but.. one callout - you cannot go all the way up. You can only view through the windows. Definitely will come back in the spring! The hike was about 1.5miles and we hiked up with a 5 year old and a 15 year old. The trails were muddy, but it did not bother us, we just wanted to have fun! Would have given 5 stars, if finding parking...

Parked on Halligan, lots of walking sticks at trailhead. Maps available there too, but not necessary - the trails are very well-marked. It took my small dog and me about an hour going up on the main trail (white) at a very leisurely pace and the same coming down on the yellow trail. View from the fire tower was great, and the whole hike was very enjoyable. Peaceful and quiet, at least on a...