Sourdough Mountain Lookout facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Sourdough Mountain Lookout
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Sourdough Mountain Lookout
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 Location in Washington (state)
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| Nearest city | Newhalem, Washington |
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| Area | less than one acre |
| Built | 1933 |
| MPS | North Cascades National Park Service Complex MRA |
| NRHP reference No. | 88003449 |
| Added to NRHP | February 10, 1989 |
The Sourdough Mountain Lookout is a special building. It was built way back in 1933. This lookout was used to spot forest fires. It sits high up on Sourdough Mountain. This mountain is in North Cascades National Park in Washington.
The lookout was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989. This means it is an important historical site. It was built by a group called the Civilian Conservation Corps. They helped build many things during the Great Depression.
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What is the Sourdough Mountain Lookout?
The Sourdough Mountain Lookout is a small building. It was designed to help park rangers. Their job was to look for smoke. Smoke could mean a forest fire was starting. Spotting fires early helps protect forests.
How Was the Lookout Built?
The lookout you see today is not the first one. An older lookout was built there in 1917. It was taken down to make room for the new one. The current building was finished in 1933.
It sits on a strong rock foundation. The building is shaped like a square. Each side is about 14 feet long. Its walls are made of a type of wood called shiplap siding. The roof is a sloped, wood-shingled hip roof.
Special Features of the Lookout
The lookout had special windows. These were actually plywood shutters. They could be opened wide. This allowed rangers to see in every direction. They could scan the forest for any signs of fire.
The building is no longer used daily. But many hikers still visit it. It is a popular destination. The hike to the lookout is about 5 miles long.
Why is the Lookout Important?
The Sourdough Mountain Lookout is important for a few reasons. It shows how people worked to protect forests. It also represents the work of the Civilian Conservation Corps. This group helped many people find jobs. They built important structures like this lookout.
The lookout is a reminder of past efforts. It helps us understand how fire safety has changed. It also lets visitors enjoy amazing views.
