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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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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ECHO LAKE
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EVERGREEN 5 W
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EVERGREEN 3.4 WNW
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EVERGREEN 6.5 WSW
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NOHRSC ECHO LAKE
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EVERGREEN 1.3 NNE
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