Hiking Washington's Fire Lookouts: A Virtual Hike Slideshow at REI

Starting in the 1930s, the US Forest Service built hundreds of fire lookouts atop remote mountain perches across Washington. In those days before radar, aerial surveillance, and portable radios, it was the diligent eyes of the lookout staff that watched for forest fires and sounded the alarm for danger. As technology evolved during the twentieth century, the use of lookouts declined and the majority of these historic buildings were abandoned, lost to fires, or torn down.

Luckily for us, there are many of these gems still standing in the Cascade and Olympic ranges, and they all make outstanding hiking destinations. Local guidebook author Amber Casali will share highlights from the 44 lookout hikes covered in her new book, Hiking Washington's Fire Lookouts, taking you on a virtual tour through lush trails, unbeatable views, and fascinating local history. Come find out more about our region's past—and how you can be a part of fire lookout future.

About the Author: Native Seattleite and avid hiker Amber Casali has lived and traveled all over the world, but her passion is for the Cascades in her own backyard. When she’s not outside, she writes and edits as a member of the creative team at a tech marketing agency.

Admission is free and open to the public.