Washington’s fire lookouts are iconic reminders of the state’s long history of wildfire detection in the rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest. Beginning in the early 20th century, the United States Forest Service and other agencies constructed hundreds of lookout towers on prominent peaks and ridges throughout the Cascade Range and Olympic Mountains. From these remote vantage points, observers once scanned the surrounding forests for signs of smoke, providing an early warning system for wildfires. While many lookouts have been removed or replaced by modern technology, dozens still remain—some restored and open to visitors—offering sweeping views of Washington’s mountains, forests, and wilderness areas. Today these structures are valued not only for their historic role in forest protection but also as beloved hiking destinations and symbols of the region’s outdoor heritage.

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