Before automated cameras came along, the United States Department of Forestry kept watch over their parks with a decidedly less high-tech approach. Perched high on mountains were fire towers. These small, rustic cabins offered a spectacular and far-reaching view of the surrounding forest, and would allow rangers to spot smoke from as much as 15 miles away. Today these cabins have become redundant, and some are even offered for rental to intrepid campers, for as little as $20.00 a night. Not a bad deal at all. Here are some stunning photos of three fire towers in action. If you’re interested in learning more, check out the Forest Fire Lookout Association’s list of towers available for rental.
Real Estate
Spend the night above it all in a de-commissioned fire tower
By Emily Campbell
Published: October 3, 2014
Updated: June 20, 2022
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Spend the night in a fire tower
Hopefully this tower is sturdier than it looks!

Spend the night in a fire tower
Sunset at Hirz Mountain is a magical time.

Spend the night in a fire tower
Perched high on Herz Mountain, this fire tower allows watchers to spot smoke from 15 miles away.

Spend the night in a fire tower
Hornet Mountain Fire Tower has storm flaps on the windows to take the edge off high-speed winds.

Spend the night in a fire tower
Inside the Hornet Mountain Fire Tower are basic necessities such as a wood stove, and of course, a desk.

Spend the night in a fire tower
Even during the early summer Hornet Mountain Fire Tower gets the occasional flurry.

Spend the night in a fire tower
Tucked among the trees, the Shorty Peak Fire Tower is the essence of solitude.

Spend the night in a fire tower
Sunset at Shorty Peak Fire Tower.

Spend the night in a fire tower
The view from Shorty Peak Fire Tower is spectacular
Spend the night above it all in a de-commissioned fire tower
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