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Address Monongahela National Forest, Forest Rd 717, Hambleton, WV 26269, USA Owner Monongahela National Forest Similar Bickle Knob, Middle Mountain Cabins, Back Allegheny Mountain, Gaudineer Knob, Laurel Fork North Wilderness | ||
Olson observation tower parsons wv
Olson Observation Tower is one of the few remaining fire towers in Monongahela National Forest. Olson is located at the southern end of Backbone Mountain northeast of Parsons in Tucker County, West Virginia.
Contents
- Olson observation tower parsons wv
- Olson observation tower monongahela national forest wv
- Other facilities
- Accessing Olson Tower
- References
The southern end of Backbone Mountain is the site of West Virginia's first fire tower, originally built by the state in 1922. This tower was later given to Monongahela National Forest, which replaced it in 1963 with the current tower.
The current tower is constructed of steel and features 133 steps leading to a cab on top. While the cab is closed to the public, the entire walkway up to the top is accessible. The tower provides 360-degree views of the surrounding area including the Cheat River watershed, Parsons, Blackwater Canyon, Canaan Mountain, Backbone Mountain and the Otter Creek Wilderness.
Olson Tower is named after Ernst B. Olson in recognition of 28 years of fire control and conservation program service to Monongahela National Forest.
Olson observation tower monongahela national forest wv
Other facilities
A small picnic area is located along FR 717 near Olson Tower.
Accessing Olson Tower
Olson Tower is located at the end of Forest Route 717, a spur from Forest Route 18. Both roads are gravel but can easily be traversed by normal passenger cars coming from U.S. Route 219 in the west. While FR 18 provides excellent views of Blackwater Canyon east of FR 717, this section of the road is only traversable by high-clearance vehicles. Passenger car travel is not recommended.