Winchester Mountain Lookout, Fire lookout tower in Whatcom County, US
Winchester Mountain Lookout is a fire observation tower situated at 6,521 feet elevation in the North Cascades. The structure is a simple L-4 ground house from the 1930s measuring 14 by 14 feet, with views extending to Mount Baker and the Northern Picket Range.
Built in 1935 as a fire observation post, the tower remained active until 1966 when fire service operations shifted. Deterioration threatened its existence until a restoration effort began in 1982.
This fire observation post served as a crucial watch station for forest rangers and the community for decades. Today, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts stop here to take in the surroundings and connect with the mountain landscape.
The tower sits at alpine elevation and requires good hiking fitness and proper gear to reach. Two bunks inside allow overnight stays, though visitors must bring bedding and fetch water from melting snow.
From the tower, visitors see a 360-degree view that extends all the way to Canadian peaks across the border. This far-reaching panorama across an international landscape makes the location unusually rewarding for climbers and observers.
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