Electron Lookout - Washington Fire Lookouts

In 1942, a 14 by 32 foot cabin was built by the AWS.

In 1947, a 40-foot pole tower with L-6 cab was constructed with legs of Western Red Cedar and a bracing of fir. The cab was a framed upright building, 8 x 8 feet dimensions, with a pyramid roof. A catwalk two feet wide surrounded the cab. Entrance was by trap door through the floor. The lookout living quarters was the AWS house, which is well constructed and adjoined the lookout tower.

In 1963, the tower was removed. The lookout site is not located at the highest point of Cowling Ridge but in a strategic location to cover everything the Ohop Lookout could not see.

Elevation: 2,400+ feet
Distance: Drive-up
Elevation Gain: 25 feet
Access: Good gravel (permit required)

These private timberlands require an expensive permit. In 2016 it was Hancock Forest Management. Ownership and rules likely changed, inquire on their website.

One of the tower legs still remains on the ground. Three nearly buried footings found, at least one of them had been moved. There is so much down timber and so many sticker bushes, exploring the site is quite un-enjoyable. My 10 year old son and I left the site with many cuts and wounds.

Electron Lookout site from Cowling Ridge Highpoint

One of the four 40 foot legs

Top of the leg was burned

Weather station at summit

Mount Rainier from the summit

Part of a board still attached

Electron Lookout 1955

Zoomed view north 2016

View south and east 2016

Views right at the footings are bad but views can be found in all directions within 40 feet diameter of the footings

Electron Lookout 1953