Maintain a good pace and you will make it up and back. Views from the top of the fire tower are well worth the climb. Several hikers climb with dogs off leash, doesn’t bother us as we are dog people. Six miles round trip!

I live ¼ mile from the trail head. I would not say the hike is "easy" at most any age unless you are conditioned and used to hiking a mostly steady climb. As of June, 2022, the trail has lots of exposed roots with trip hazards. Much of the climb will be over rocky terrain as other reviewers note, mostly stable with some exceptions. Yes, a hiking stick/trekking pole is recommended especially on the way down. Leaves in some areas make the ground underneath slippery and unpredictable after a rain. There are no views until you're close to the top of the trail. Cell signal is generally available towards the upper elevations, not anywhere near the base. Parking is accessed via Station Rd. off Rt 103, the opposite end no longer reaches Healdville Rd. as the bridge over Branch Brook was deemed unsafe and is blocked to vehicle traffic. It's a good workout!