Fire Lookout On Mestaa’Ėhehe Mountain Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 4, 2025

The Fire Lookout on Mestaa’ėhehe Mountain (formerly Squaw Mountain), near Idaho Springs, Colorado, offers a unique backcountry-style stay in a historic 1940s fire tower at 11,486 feet.


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Summary

Reservations are required via Recreation.gov, with a nightly fee (~$80). There are no traditional campsites or dispersed camping nearby—only the lookout rental. The site includes a vault toilet, fire ring, grill, and beds inside, but no running water or hookups. Access is via a 1.5-mile hike or snowshoe in winter. Expect stunning alpine scenery, solitude, and panoramic views. Nearby attractions include hiking, snowshoeing, and Echo Mountain ski area. Best visited June–October, weather permitting.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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