Historic Fire Lookout in Lassen Volcanic National Park Destroyed by Dixie Fire

An infrared flight on August 6, 2021 showed fire activity near the Mount Harkness Lookout in the Juniper Lake area of Lassen Volcanic National Park. The Park has confirmed via an incident reconnaissance flight that the Mount Harkness Lookout has been destroyed. 

“Lassen Volcanic recognizes the profound impact this has on visitors, partners, and staff who enjoyed and help preserve the historic tower for more than 90 years,” said park officials in a statement.

Mount Harkness Fire Lookout has served as an active fire lookout and visitor destination since its construction in 1930. The rustic style two-story wood and stone structure sits at 8,046 feet elevation on the summit of an ancient shield volcano topped by a cinder cone.

Though most historic fire lookout towers are not in service anymore, the Mount Harkness lookout remained staffed and utilized until its demise.

With fire efforts still prevalent throughout the park, Lassen officials have not announced a plan to rebuild the tower.