Long before modern technology made wildfire detection easier, fire lookouts perched high above the Appalachian landscape, watching the ridgelines for the first signs of smoke. Today, many of those historic towers are gone, but a remarkable collection remains throughout and around West Virginia’s Monongahela National Forest, offering visitors a chance to experience both the history and scenery of the region.
This guide from Mon Forest Towns highlights nearly a dozen surviving fire towers and historic lookout sites, from easily accessible observation towers to remote destinations reached by hiking, biking, horseback or even historic steam train. Along the way, it shares the stories behind these structures, practical information for visiting and ideas for exploring the mountain towns and outdoor destinations nearby.
For anyone looking to explore Appalachia from a different perspective, these towers offer more than a view. They are a connection to the region’s forest history, conservation efforts and communities, with some of the most memorable overlooks in the Mon Forest.
Explore the full guide: Guardians of the Ridge: Mon Forest Fire Tower Adventure Guide
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