Last week I posted a blog about Orofino, Idaho and Rich Jacobson asked about rustic cabins.  We have rustic cabins and then some!!  How about renting a fire watch tower?  Many of the towers in our area can be rented on a first come-first served basis.  These towers are very rustic and a minimum of supplies.  Last fall I visited one in the Blue Mt's and here is what was provided.  A U.S. forestry issued cot, a chair, and a cook-top.  You will have to ask the Ranger District of the fire tower that you wish to rent what is provided in order to properly plan your trip.   You can reserve your tower by contacting the Ranger District either in person, or by mail.  The fees that are charged go toward maintaining the site--pumping outhouses, etc.  Before you arrive, it is advised that you check the local conditions.  You will be happy to know that in the tower I visited, everything had been grounded in case of an electrical storm.  (Wouldn't that be exciting??)  The stairs up to the tower are very steep, you should be in good physical condition if you plan on such an outing.  Also, if you have children under 12, you may not want to bring them along.

The average cost of a stay is $30.00 per night.  Some towers have a minimum of a 2 nights stay. 

The fire watch towers are not used much today to actually watch for fires.  Here in my area it is extremely dry in the summer and early fall, and you can usually find volunteer college students spending their days in the tower!  It can be a lot of fun, but remember, it is very remote, you may not see another person while you are there. 

What a getaway!!