Restoring the Roof at Brian Head Peak: Fire Tower Above 11,000 ft

Towering at over 11,000 feet, Brian Head Peak and its iconic Overlook Tower stand as a testament to both natural beauty and rugged craftsmanship. Constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), this historic fire tower has long been a beacon for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the region’s breathtaking landscapes and the year-round recreation on the Markagunt Plateau. Recently, severe storms have left the overlook damaged, stripping away its roof and calling attention to the urgent need for restoration.

Forest Supervisor Kevin Wright, reflecting on the importance of the site, remarked: “This overlook is not just a vantage point. It is a historical marker and a testament to our commitment to conservation and recreation of all types. Restoring it is not just about preserving the structure but honoring our heritage and the legacy of the CCC’s work.”

Integral to the Forest Service’s history, fire towers were primarily built in the early 20th century to monitor for forest fires at great distances from high mountain points. These structures, often manned by lookouts, provided a high vantage point to survey vast woodland areas for signs of smoke. Although this fire tower is no longer in active service, it remains a symbol of the Forest Service’s dedication to forest conservation and fire management.

The restoration will require meticulous attention to detail to match the original design. Specialists will work to replicate the original construction, preserving the overlook’s authenticity and integrity by using historically accurate materials that reflect the era’s craftsmanship.

Zion Forever joins the Iron County Tourism Office and the Forest Service in support of this project. This initiative is a call to action for outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists, and residents of Southern Utah to come together to restore one of the most iconic structures in the five-county region.