The Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout in Tahoe National Forest blends outdoor adventure with history. Built in 1915 and redesigned in 1963 with its now-famous 180 aluminum steps, the tower rises 8,587 feet above sea level. Visitors can reach it by hiking or jeeping to the base, then climbing the steps for panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada. Retired engineer Rich Eacobacci, who designed the stairs at age 26, still makes the climb at 88, sharing his lifelong connection to the tower with family. For hik

Flag Point Lookout in Mt. Hood National Forest offers a rare chance to spend a night in a historic fire lookout tower. Perched on a 5,650-foot hillside, it delivers incredible views in every direction: Mt. Hood to the west, Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Ranier to the north, and Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters to the south. Want to make the trek? Here's our tips:️ 🔑 Reserve on recreation.gov where you'll get an access code to unlock the tower. While it can be challenging to secure a rese

Save these 3 epic hikes less than an hour from Denver ✍️🥾 1. Devils Head Lookout Trail | Located in Sedalia, Colorado | ~2.8 miles RT | 940 ft elevation gain | Moderate | fire lookout open May - November (road to trailhead closes in December) 2. Saint Marys Glacier | Idaho Springs, Colorado | ~1.6 miles RT | 528 ft elevation gain | Moderate | costs $20 to park 3. Herman Gulch | Silver Plume, Colorado | 7.2 miles RT | 1,774 ft elevation gain | moderate Need to know: - Stay on trail and pack out