Wake up to a bird's eye view overlooking a canopy of evergreen forest and snow-capped mountains from the unique perspective of a fire lookout. Two remote lookouts in the state of Washington let you enjoy the serene view or explore hiking trails winding through the forest. While you won't have the conveniences found in modern hotels, these rustic shelters provide an ideal way to watch wildlife, sunrises and sunsets.
Get online. Head over to the Forest Fire Lookout Association's website where you'll find a list of two fire lookouts avaiialbe to rent in the state of Washington. The lookouts are managed by Washington State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service. The forest service site for the Pacific Northwest Region has a selection of fire lookouts in the region as well as guard houses and cabins available to rent.
Choose your lookout. While all the lookouts are 14 feet by 14 feet with wraparound windows and decks, the view varies. The Quartz Mountain Fire Lookout in Mount Spokane State Park sleeps up to four people with views looking out over the Spokane Valley, Selkirk Mountains and north Idaho panhandle. Evergreen Mountain Lookout in the Wild Sky Wilderness looks out at Mount Rainer, Glacier Peak and the Columbia Glacier.
Book your reservation. The lookout available through Washington State Parks can be booked through an online reservation system or by dialing 888-CAMPOUT. The Forest Service lookout can be reserved online at Recreation.gov. Make reservations as far ahead as possible -- up to nine months in advance through Washington State Parks or six months in advance through the Forest Service. These scenic sites fill up fast, especially during the busy summer season.
Make arrangements for your pets. Pets are not allowed in the fire lookouts for safety reasons, so plan to make other arrangements for them. Keep in mind that fire lookouts are not childproof, so you may want to leave small children with friends or relatives. The hike to either fire lookout involves a steep uphill climb carrying all your camping gear, food and water, so make sure you and all members of your party are physically up to the task.
Gather your gear. You'll need to bring your own sleeping bag or other bedding as linens are not provided. Primitive toilet facilities are provided at each lookout, as well as a propane camp stove for cooking your food outdoors. Bring storm gear and warm, dry clothes for chilly, damp weather as lookouts aren't heated.
