High Knob Scenic Tower

High Knob Scenic Tower
36.892223, -82.62945
Norton, VA 24273

At the peak of High Knob Mountain stood one of the few remaining fire towers of the Appalachian Mountains. Built in 1938–39 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the original structure was a 14' × 14' wooden house. The most recent three-story structure was built by the Flatwoods Job Corps in 1978–79. High Knob's fire tower is listed in the National Historic Lookout Registry.

On October 31, 2007, the High Knob Lookout Tower was destroyed by arson. The tower was set on fire in the early hours of Halloween morning. By the time the Jefferson Forest Service and local fire departments arrived on scene, the fire tower was fully engulfed in flames, and could not be saved. Firefighters were able to keep the fire from spreading to the rest of the Knob, which was suffering from drought conditions.

Construction was delayed on the new tower do to funding and weather conditions but is set to be finished in spring/summer of 2014.

Operational Hours: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m
Fees: No Fee
Open Season: Open year round
Closest Towns: Norton, VA
Water: No drinking water available
Restroom: No restrooms available
Operated By: Clinch Ranger District: 276-679-8370