Inns & Lodges: Sleeping Beauties Smoking out the overlooked fire-spotting towers In 1981, when the forest service first got the notion to convert some of its outmoded and decommissioned fire-spotting towers into ultra-primitive wilderness hostels, it expected mild interest. But today, with 28 of the lookouts open in the Sierra Nevada and the Rockies, the agency can’t keep up with demand. Reservations for the most popular towers Of course, a crowd often means there’s an overlooked jewel elsewhere. So as the Forest Service works toward opening at least two more towers to the public this summer, we asked local outfitters, as well as sources within the Forest Service itself, for their recommendations on the finest of the less-utilized lookouts. Their choices: McCart Shorty Peak For information about other renovated towers, call the Forest Service public affairs line (202-205-1760). And remember, the towers offer only shelter and views. Pack in your own water, food, cooking fuel, and sleeping bags. And if you spy a wisp of smoke as you scan the scenery, report it. |
Inns & Lodges: Sleeping Beauties
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