Titusville Mountain State Forest

Discover

Titusville Mountain State Forest spans 7,566 acres in Franklin County, New York, within the towns of Bellmont and Malone. Established for reforestation, wildlife management, timber production, recreation, and watershed protection, this property features diverse landscapes, including wetlands, waterfalls, and mountain vistas. The Salmon River provides great access to fishing and paddling. Managed by DEC Region 5, the forest is part of Wildlife Management Unit 5C, with its management guided by the Northern Franklin Unit Management Plan.

The Elephant's Head Trail is a popular feature of Titusville Mountain State Forest. This 0.8-mile footpath begins at Alan Road and ascends 320 feet to the summit of Elephant's Head. A wooden staircase helps hikers navigate a steep section near the top. The trail offers access to elevated views, showcasing the forest's rugged terrain. Its short length makes it an accessible option for visitors seeking a brief but rewarding hike with scenic vistas.

The Ledges Trail provides another hiking opportunity within Titusville Mountain State Forest. This 0.6-mile trail starts from a parking area on Lee Road and climbs 700 feet to a vista at 2,120 feet elevation. From this viewpoint, visitors can enjoy expansive views of the northern Adirondack region, including Whiteface Mountain on clear days. Additional vistas west of the trail's endpoint offer broader perspectives, making this trail a favorite for those seeking stunning scenery and photo opportunities.

The High Falls Trail leads visitors to a remarkable natural feature within the forest. This 0.75-mile trail begins at Barnesville Road and winds its way to the High Falls Waterfall on the Salmon River. The waterfall serves as a focal point for the trail, offering a chance to observe the dynamic interaction between water and rock. While the trail is lightly to moderately traveled, it remains a popular destination for those interested in exploring the forest's aquatic features.

The Salmon River within the forest offers opportunities for fishing and paddling. The river provides opportunities for fishing and paddling, making it a draw for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors are encouraged to respect the river's natural state and adhere to DEC guidelines to preserve its ecological integrity for future generations.

The draft Northern Franklin Unit Management Plan outlines proposed conservation and recreational strategies for Titusville Mountain State Forest. This draft plan includes detailed information on the area's natural features, geology, habitats, and wildlife. It also addresses the development and maintenance of recreational infrastructure, ensuring sustainable use of the forest. The draft Northern Franklin Unit Management Plan is available for review, and questions or comments can be sent to the DEC.

Titusville Mountain State Forest is surrounded by other notable state lands and conservation areas, including Chazy Highlands Wild Forest, Debar Mountain Wild Forest, Deer River State Forest, and the Sable Highlands Conservation Easement. These nearby properties offer additional opportunities for exploration and recreation, complementing the experiences available within Titusville Mountain. Visitors planning a trip to the region can consider combining visits to these areas for a broader appreciation of Franklin County's natural landscapes.

Access to Titusville Mountain State Forest is facilitated by several entry points, including parking areas at Elephant's Head Road and Lee Road. Directions to these locations are provided by the DEC, with GPS coordinates available for precise navigation. Visitors are encouraged to plan their routes carefully, taking into account the forest's varied terrain and trail conditions. Staying on designated paths ensures both safety and the preservation of the forest's ecological balance.

Fun facts

1. Titusville Mountain State Forest spans over 7,500 acres, making it one of Franklin County's largest state forests.
2. The Elephant's Head Trail features a wooden staircase to assist hikers on steep terrain near the summit.
3. The Ledges Trail offers views of Whiteface Mountain on clear days.
4. The Salmon River within the forest supports recreational activities such as fishing and paddling.
5. The High Falls Waterfall is a key attraction on the Salmon River, accessible via a 0.75-mile trail.

Read the official sources →

Capture

1. Capture the views from the Ledges Trail vista, especially on clear days when Whiteface Mountain is visible.
2. Photograph the High Falls Waterfall on the Salmon River during early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting.
3. Use the wooden staircase on the Elephant's Head Trail as a focal point to highlight the trail's elevation and rugged terrain.

Social

Explore the 7,566-acre Titusville Mountain State Forest, a natural treasure in Franklin County. #Cre8Travel

Hike the Elephant's Head Trail for stunning summit views and a unique wooden staircase. #Cre8Travel

Discover the Ledges Trail's vista at 2,120 feet, offering views of Whiteface Mountain on clear days. #Cre8Travel

Visit the High Falls Waterfall on the Salmon River, accessible via a 0.75-mile trail. #Cre8Travel

The Salmon River offers fishing and paddling opportunities within Titusville Mountain State Forest. #Cre8Travel

Plan your visit with the Northern Franklin Unit Management Plan for trail and habitat insights. #Cre8Travel

Explore nearby state lands like Chazy Highlands Wild Forest and Debar Mountain Wild Forest. #Cre8Travel

Access Titusville Mountain State Forest via Elephant's Head Road or Lee Road parking areas. #Cre8Travel

Hashtags

1. #Cre8Travel
2. #TitusvilleMountain
3. #FranklinCountyNY
4. #Adirondacks
5. #NatureExploration
6. #HikingTrails
7. #SalmonRiver

Sources & visitor information

• New York State Department of Environmental Conservation — Titusville Mountain State Forest