Mountain Fire Lookout Tower near Mountain, Wisconsin is one of the most unique historic stops in Oconto County. Located in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, this 100-foot fire tower has 132 steps and offers wide views over the surrounding Northwoods.
Built in 1935 by the U.S. Forest Service and the Civilian Conservation Corps, the Mountain Fire Lookout Tower is the only original lookout tower on the forest still open for visitors to climb. If you enjoy scenic overlooks, historic structures, and fall color drives, this is a stop worth making.
General Information
| Location | Mountain Fire Lookout Tower |
| Community | Mountain |
| County | Oconto County |
| State | Wisconsin |
| Address | Forest Service Road 2335, Mountain, WI 54149 |
| Forest | Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest |
| Height | 100 feet |
| Steps | 132 |
| Season | Typically open May through October 31 |
| Hours | 8:00 a.m. to sunset |
| Cost | Free |
| Google Map Location | View on Google Maps |
Hours and seasonal access can change, so it is a good idea to check current conditions before visiting.
A Historic Fire Tower in the Northwoods
The Mountain Fire Lookout Tower was built in 1935 and once served as part of a larger network of lookout towers in the former Nicolet National Forest. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable historic structures in this part of northeastern Wisconsin.
The tower was restored in 2015 and 2016, helping preserve this landmark for future visitors. Climbing to the top gives you a broad view over the forest canopy and makes it easy to appreciate just how much woodland stretches across this region.
Getting There by Car
The tower is easy to reach by car. The access road is gravel, and there is a small parking area near the site. Because it is not a long walk from the lot, this is a simple stop to add to a scenic drive through the Mountain area.
If you are already exploring Oconto County backroads or looking for fall color, this is one of those places that makes an easy and worthwhile detour.
Getting There by ATV or UTV
If you are riding the Oconto County ATV and UTV trails, the tower also makes a fun stop along the way. Many roads in the Mountain area are open to ATV and UTV travel unless otherwise marked.
Machines are typically parked lower on the hill, with a short walk up to the tower itself. In fall, the walk in can be especially pretty as the forest starts turning gold and orange.
Why It’s Worth the Stop
The climb is the main attraction here. At 132 steps, it is enough to feel memorable without taking long, and the view from the top is the reward. On a clear day, you can see far out over the surrounding forest, and during fall color the mix of yellows, golds, and oranges makes the climb especially worthwhile.
Because the site is free and easy to access, it is one of the better simple stops in the Mountain area for anyone who enjoys historic places, scenic overlooks, and Northwoods views.
Visitor Tips
- Wear shoes with decent grip for the metal stairs.
- Check current access and seasonal dates before heading out.
- Bring a camera if you enjoy wide forest views.
- Fall is one of the prettiest times to visit.
- If heights are not your favorite, the site is still interesting from the ground.
Final Thoughts
Mountain Fire Lookout Tower is one of those classic Wisconsin stops that combines history, scenery, and a little adventure. Whether you arrive by car or make it part of an ATV or UTV day, it is an easy place to add to your list when exploring the Mountain area and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.
If you are chasing fall color, this one belongs on your list.