Mount Utsayantha Fire Tower — Attraction in Town of Stamford

I went to the Fire Tower on the last Friday in February when there was at least a foot of snow on the ground. There was so much snow that the road was essentially closed for the last 0.9 mile so I parked my car and begin walking. I took the trek up to the top in normal hiking boots rather than snow boots or snowshoes in the dark with my headlamp and hiking bag. The trip up was relatively difficult, but that was only because of the ice and snow that caused me to fall through up to my mid leg. Thankfully someone else's footsteps were frozen over and I was able to walk on and around those for decent ground and traction, but with the frigid 15° temperature while going up the ascent, I had to stop a few time to catch my breath due to how cold the air was on my lungs. However, the trek to the top only took about 30 minutes and I arrived to the accessible fire tower with 30 minutes before sunrise. At the top of the fire tower it was very windy with an approximate wind chill of -2°F and without any glass in the fire tower, it was a long wait for the amazing sunrise. The views were spectacular of both the moon and the sun, but the only disadvantage was the cell towers that obstructed some of the view. I recommend this hike to anyone who loves fire towers, but if you go in the winter make sure you have the attire and gear for...

What was thought to be an easy and relaxing walk up to the tour quickly turned into a feat of strength as the path up to the tower isn't plowed during the Winter season (rightfully so).

It took over an hour through several feet deep snow to get to the top of the mountain where the tower sat, but it was more than worth it.

The top of the mountain has a nice picnic area, the tower itself and a house that served as the original building for those stationed in the tower.

The view is truly amazing, both from the tower and overlook near the house.

If you live in the area, definitely make a trip to see the amazing views from the tower. My advice? Make the journey in the Summer, when there's no snow to Wade through. Or even better, make your way up in the Fall, I'm sure the views at that time would be at it's greatest.

10/10, easy trip (during season) with a fantastic experience and...

Amazing views all around. Definitely worth a visit.

Getting up to the fire-tower is an off-road experience. It is somewhat of a steep climb along an unpaved/loose-gravel narrow bumpy road. Recommend all-wheel drive.

Once you reach the top of the mountain, the view all around is pretty fantastic. But the fire-tower gives it an altogether different dimension though. The climb up the fire-tower itself is somewhat adventurous given that some ladders swing or creak a little :). Top of the tower is good enough for max 4-5 people at a time and quite windy. But the views of the surrounding mountains and valleys that it offers are pretty picturesque.

Drive down is equally exhilarating. Drive slow and look out for cars coming in from the other side. At places, there may not be enough space for safe passage of both.

All in all, pretty scenic and...