Would you spend your vacation in a fire tower? These towers are often called fire lookouts, and they are quickly becoming popular vacation spots.
Wherever there are forests and mountains, you’ll also find fire towers that provide an overhead view of the area to spot fires and warn emergency personnel who will come and handle the fires. The strange thing about these towers is that they are becoming popular places to stay in states where getting off the grid is part of the experience. States such as Montana, Oregon, and Pennsylvania have become popular destinations with these towers as lookout locations for vacationers to enjoy an off-grid stay.
How much does it cost?
The National Forest Service rents unmanned lookout towers during the summer for as little as $40 per night. This is a great way to enjoy a mountaintop view in a rustic and charming location. The structural benefits allow you to be a little more comfortable than you might be if you stayed in a tent at a campground. You’ll enjoy a truly unforgettable experience and enjoy an affordable vacation spot.
Why are there lookout towers?
Fire lookouts have been around since the early 1900s and were the primary way to spot wildfires. These towers are perched high on the mountain top and, at one time, were occupied by dedicated individuals looking for fires that were out of control. These were the best way to see smoke columns and flames in the area. There are still manned towers in use today, but the towers that have been retired can be used as great mountaintop vacation spots for anyone looking for a unique getaway.
Why are there copper wires around these towers?
The higher on a mountain you go, the more likely you are to be hit by lightning. The Forest Service has many lookouts and facilities that are subject to these strikes. These locations are natural lighting conductors, but there’s a solution. Using copper wires fastened onto the tower, the area attracts lighting but sends the electrical charge deep into the ground to disperse the charge naturally and safely. This allows the towers to remain safe from lightning despite being an easy target.
How do functional towers operate?
Fire lookouts that are still operational are used to spot fires in the forests, especially on mountainsides. Using mapping tools, the staff in a fire tower can pinpoint the exact geographic location of a fire. Once they have done this, they report it to the local dispatch with the location, relative size, and any other details available. Then, the dispatch team figures out how to best fight the fire and put it out, whether by ground, air, or both. These towers serve an extremely important function and help to keep the forest safe.
How do you get to a tower?
Will you have to carry all your gear to these fire lookouts in order to enjoy one for your vacation, or will you be able to drive to the location? The answer to this depends on the location of the tower. Some are extremely remote an only accessible via hiking trail, Its important to check this information before you go to the tower to stay for the time you’ll be there. You can also call the local Ranger District for the most updated information.
High or low?
If you’re scared of heights, you’ll want to book a tower that sits closer to the ground but is still above the forests. This way, you can enjoy the feeling of being close to the ground while experiencing the amazing views surrounding the tower. Some towers are built on stilts, which means they are high in the air and could be what you want to enjoy when you head into the wilderness. Consider your traveling group when booking the tower you’ll stay in.
Can you take your dog?
Some fire lookouts allow pets to travel along with you, but others do not. Make sure you check the box for “pets allowed” if you want to spend your vacation with your furry friends. Taking your pets might be another consideration when choosing a lower, ground level tower instead of one that’s up on stilts, and requires you to climb lots of stairs. Of course, some dogs can handle stairs and will be fine going up and down.
Fire lookouts are towers built to watch for forest fires, and they can be the best vacation spot you’ve ever found, especially if you want to get off the grid and enjoy nature.