
Bays Mountain Park Fire Tower Hike Early Arrival Experience
Enjoy the sights of Bays Mountain Reservoir on your way to the iconic Fire Tower. A park ranger will share stories about the reservoir and the Fire Tower. The fire tower was constructed in the 1930’s and it is not ADA compliant. The last 8 tenths of the hike is steep, with steps, and switchbacks along the way. Once you get to the fire tower it is worth the hike. If you hike up inside the Fire Tower you get a bird’s eye view of the park, Holston River, and Kingsport.
Overall hike is 3.3 miles round trip hiking along moderate to advance trails. Trail surface is hard pack dirt, with some roots and rocks.
Required: Water and a water bottle, sturdy closed toe hiking shoes, and dress for the weather.Â
Time: 11:30am – 2pm  |  Capacity: 12  |  Cost: Covered by Visit Kingsport Â

Bays Mountain Park Fire Tower Hike Early Arrival Experience
Registration for the Fire Tower Hike at Bays Mountain Park Early Arrival Experience - Governor's Conference 2025 Enjoy the sights of Bays Mountain Reservoir on your way to the iconic Fire Tower. A park ranger will share stories about the reservoir and the Fire Tower. The fire tower was constructed in the 1930’s and it is not ADA compliant. The last 8 tenths of the hike is steep, with steps, and switchbacks along the way. Once you get to the fire tower it is worth the hike. If you hike up inside the Fire Tower you get a bird’s eye view of the park, Holston River, and Kingsport. Overall hike is 3.3 miles round trip hiking along moderate to advance trails. Trail surface is hard pack dirt, with some roots and rocks. Required: Water and a water bottle, sturdy closed toe hiking shoes, and dress for the weather. Time of Excursion: 11:30am – 2:00pm | Capacity: 12 | Cost: $0