Standing 60 feet tall on Bald Knob, this steel fire tower is West Virginia’s highest lookout point at 4,842 feet elevation. Built in 1967, the tower offers sweeping views across West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland. The cab houses active fire detection equipment during fire season, but visitors can climb the exterior stairs to an observation deck just below. On clear days, visibility extends over 100 miles across the Allegheny Mountains and Potomac Highlands.
Drive directly to the summit via Forest Road 27 from Route 33 — a steep, winding gravel road that’s passable by most vehicles but requires caution in wet conditions. Open year-round but best visibility April through October. Elevation and exposure mean weather can change rapidly; bring layers and expect wind at the summit.
West Virginia's highest fire tower at 4,842 feet
Place Details
| Type | Fire Lookout |
|---|---|
| Street address | 81 North Main Street, Franklin, West Virginia 26807 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 4842 ft |
| Nearest town | Franklin, West Virginia |
| Miles from pavement | 3.2 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 0 nights |
| Best season | April-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |