Ohio’s very first fire tower went up in 1924, and it still stands on a forest hilltop today. Back then, its whole job was spotting smoke before a small blaze became a big problem.
That tower was the first of 39 lookouts placed across Ohio’s forests. A handful survive, and several let you climb the stairs yourself. One of them rises a full 100 feet, the last of its height in the state.
I love that these old lookouts now serve a happier purpose. Nobody climbs to scan for smoke anymore. People climb for the treetops instead, which turn red, orange, and gold in autumn.
I also couldn’t resist adding a few cliffs, ridges, and hilltop overlooks to the mix. They deliver the same big sky without a single steel step. I’d love to climb one of those historic fire towers on a crisp autumn morning and watch the forests stretch out below in shades of red, orange, and gold.
That sounds like a view worth every step.
1. Mohican State Park Fire Tower
Back in 1934, a lookout here could watch roughly 200,000 acres of forest at once. Today, the same 80-foot tower is watching for something far more pleasant: fall color.
The tower sits in Mohican-Memorial State Forest near Perrysville. When it was built, rangers enjoyed an average visibility of about 10 miles in every direction.
You can climb the stairs to the upper platform and take in a full 360-degree view. The cab at the very top is permanently closed, so plan to enjoy the scenery from the platform below it.
Honestly, the platform gives you plenty. Rolling forest stretches out on all sides, and in autumn it looks like someone spilled a giant box of crayons.
Climbing is at your own risk and depends on the weather. Skip it on icy, stormy, or very windy days, and wear shoes with solid grip.
Want to turn the climb into a full adventure? The tower pairs with one of Mohican’s favorite hikes, a 5-mile round trip that reaches the area’s covered bridge.
The forest is also home to the Clear Fork Gorge, which adds even more scenery to your day. Pack snacks, because picnic tables are on hand for a lunch break after all those stairs.
Leashed dogs are welcome on designated trails in Mohican-Memorial State Forest, making it easy to bring your hiking buddy along. Keep in mind that pets are not permitted in the nearby Clear Fork Gorge State Nature Preserve.
Saturday afternoons and evenings draw the biggest crowds. If you prefer elbow room at the top, try a weekday evening when things are calmer.
Mohican-Memorial State Forest is open to visitors daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. For the best views and a safer climb, plan your fire tower visit during daylight hours and avoid stormy or windy weather.
Address: 1012 O D N R Mohican Rd 51, Perrysville, OH 44864
2. Ash Cave Fire Tower
Stairs, stairs, and more stairs. If counting steps is your idea of a fun cardio session, this Hocking Hills lookout will make your fitness tracker very proud.
Built in 1934, the Ash Cave Fire Tower stands 80 feet tall in Hocking State Forest. The Aermotor Company made it, a firm better known for its windmills before it branched into lookout towers.
At the top sits a small 7-foot by 7-foot metal cab. That cab stays closed, but the stairs below it are open for climbing when the weather cooperates.
So what do you get for your effort? A sweeping 360-degree view over the forests and hills of one of Ohio’s most famous scenic regions.
Fall is when the payoff gets serious. The Hocking Hills are packed with hardwoods, and from up high you can watch the colors ripple across ridge after ridge.
Getting there is simple. Park in the free lot north of the tower at the corner of OH-374 and Chapel Ridge Road.
From there, follow the Grandma Gatewood Trail south for about 550 feet. That’s a short stroll, so save your energy for the climb ahead.
The tower is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Early birds get softer morning light, while later visits can catch the sun dropping toward the hills.
Climbing is at your own risk, so take your time and hold the railings. Friday and Saturday mornings tend to be busy, while Wednesday afternoons are usually quieter.
Address: Ash Cave Lookout Tower, Logan, OH 43138
3. Copperhead Fire Tower
History buffs, this one’s for you. Copperhead Fire Tower went up in 1924, making it the very first fire tower in Ohio.
It kicked off a network of 39 wildfire lookouts placed across the state’s forests. A century later, it still stands proudly in Shawnee State Forest near West Portsmouth.
The tower rises 60 feet from the top of Copperhead Hill. That hill already sits more than 1,200 feet above sea level, so you get a head start on height.
Recent restoration work reopened the tower for climbing. Expect about 100 steps to reach the viewing platform, which is a solid workout without being exhausting.
From the platform, you’ll see a full 360 degrees of forest and hills. Shawnee is one of Ohio’s largest state forests, and in fall that means a lot of color.
Here’s a heads-up about the drive. The road to the tower is curvy and narrow, so go slowly and keep both hands on the wheel.
The good news? That twisty ride is part of the fun, winding through thick woods before you even reach the base.
The tower sits along Forest Road 6, deep in the backcountry. Download directions ahead of time, since phone signals can be spotty in remote forest areas.
Kids usually get a kick out of climbing Ohio’s oldest lookout. It’s a fun way to sneak in a history lesson without anyone noticing.
As always, climb at your own risk and pick a dry day. Wet steps and high winds can turn an easy climb into a tricky one.
Address: West Portsmouth, OH 45663
4. BlueRock State Park Fire Tower
Go big or go home, right? At 100 feet tall, this tower is the last remaining 100-foot fire tower in Ohio.
The Civilian Conservation Corps built it in 1937. Those young workers left marks on parks across the country, and this steel giant is one of their tallest.
It’s an Aermotor tower with a 7-foot by 7-foot metal cab at the top. The cab stays locked, but the stairs are open for climbing when the weather allows.
Even without the cab, you climb high enough to look down on the treetops. The 360-degree view takes in Blue Rock State Forest and the hills beyond it.
In autumn, that forest turns into a patchwork of color. From 100 feet up, it feels like you’re looking at a quilt someone laid over the hills.
Nervous about heights? Take breaks on the landings, and remember there’s no prize for speed.
The tower makes an excellent first fire tower for newcomers. It’s in good shape, and the steady climb feels rewarding without being scary for most people.
Picnic tables near the base are perfect for a snack before or after. A public restroom is on hand too, which is always welcome on a forest outing.
Dogs are allowed, and the area offers hikes that suit kids. That makes it an easy pick for a family fall day trip in southeast Ohio.
Climbing is at your own risk. Wear sturdy shoes, hold the rails, and skip stormy days.
Address: Chandlersville, OH 43727
5. Scioto Grove Metro Park Firetower
Some towers stay put for life, but this one moved to the suburbs. Originally built in Jackson County in 1942, it was restored and relocated to Scioto Grove Metro Park.
The tower officially reopened in its new home on August 15, 2023. Now it stands as a striking landmark in Grove City, just south of Columbus.
Here’s the fun twist. Instead of only forest views, you also get a peek at the Columbus skyline, about 7 miles away.
The tower rises 82 feet from the ground to the floor of its cab. Reaching the top means tackling 111 steep steps on an inside metal staircase.
You can climb almost all the way up for a big view. Look for the Scioto River winding through the park and the trees along its banks.
Fall adds a bonus layer to the scene. Golden riverside trees in front and city towers in the distance make for one memorable photo.
The tower is open during daylight hours, except in bad weather. Check the sky before you go, since storms can close it.
Bringing kids? The park has a playground, so little ones can burn off any leftover energy after the climb.
A restroom is available too. That’s handy if you plan to spend a few hours exploring the trails and riverbank.
This tower is a great choice for Columbus folks who want a fire tower without a long drive. It’s an easy afternoon trip that still feels like an adventure.
Address: Grove City, OH 43123
6. Mount Pleasant In Rising Park
Who needs steel stairs when the hill does the lifting for you? Mount Pleasant in Lancaster’s Rising Park delivers a big view with nothing but a hiking trail.
From the top, you look out over Lancaster and the surrounding countryside. The view ranks among the best in Ohio for a city park.
Fall is a showstopper here. Rooftops and church steeples peek through orange and yellow trees, making the town look like a postcard.
The hike to the top is short enough for families. Kids can handle it, and the trail adds a little adventure to a regular park day.
Rising Park has much more than one hilltop. You’ll find a big playground with slides and swings, plus tennis courts and a baseball field.
Like to fish? The park offers fishing too, so you can split your day between casting a line and climbing for the view.
Picnic tables make it simple to pack lunch. A public restroom and a free parking lot cover the basic needs without fuss.
Dogs are welcome, so bring your pup along for the hike. Just keep a close eye near the top, where the views open up.
The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Weekend afternoons get busy, while weekday mornings tend to feel calm and quiet.
It’s a great pick when you want a panoramic view without a long drive into the woods. Lancaster’s downtown is close by for a stroll afterward.
Address: 1000 N High St, Lancaster, OH 43130
7. Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
Two trails, two totally different moods. Conkles Hollow lets you choose between a stroll at the bottom of a gorge or a climb along its rim.
The preserve sits in the Hocking Hills near Rockbridge. Tall sandstone cliffs line the hollow, and trees fill the space between them.
Down below, the gorge trail is mostly paved with concrete. It’s a peaceful walk that leads past waterfalls tucked along the cliff walls.
Up top, the rim trail is more challenging. Your reward is wide cliffside views looking down into the hollow and across the hills.
In fall, the rim view is a real treat. You get a bird’s-eye look at the treetops changing color inside the gorge.
Now for a safety note. Parts of the rim trail run close to the cliff edge, so stay on the path and watch little ones closely.
Wear shoes with good grip, especially after rain. Sandstone can get slick, and you’ll want steady footing up there.
Families with younger kids may prefer the gorge trail. It’s easy, relaxing, and still full of scenery.
Picnic tables and a public restroom are available near the start. Free parking is available near the trailhead, though the lot can fill up quickly on busy fall weekends.
Saturday mornings and afternoons draw the biggest crowds. An early start helps you beat the rush and enjoy the views in peace.
Address: 24858 Big Pine Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149
8. Ledges Overlook
Sunset chasers, mark your calendars. Ledges Overlook in Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a favorite spot for watching the sky light up at day’s end.
A short trail leads to the top of the ledges. From there, an expansive view stretches across the Cuyahoga Valley.
Fall is when this overlook truly shines. Once the leaves turn yellow and red, the valley below becomes one big sea of color.
Getting there is half the fun. The Ledges area is packed with cool rock formations that make the walk feel like a mini adventure.
You can pick your challenge too. Several trails wind through the area, from a short and easy route to one that’s a bit tougher.
Want to catch the sunset without the stress? Arrive early and plan to leave by dusk, when the Ledges area closes. Check the sunset time for your visit so you have enough daylight to return safely.
That schedule matters in autumn, when the sun sets earlier. Plan ahead so you can enjoy the glow and still head out on time.
Dogs are allowed outside, so your pup can join the hike. Keep them close near the rocky edges for safety.
Parking includes a free lot along with some paid options nearby. The area gets busy, especially on weekend afternoons.
This is one of Northeast Ohio’s best payoffs for a short walk. Bring a camera, a jacket, and maybe a snack for the view.
Address: Ledges Trailhead, 701 Truxell Road, Peninsula, OH 44264
9. Chapin Forest Reservation
A lake view from a forest trail in Ohio? Chapin Forest Reservation makes it happen, with overlooks that reach all the way to Lake Erie.
Run by Lake Metroparks, this Kirtland park is packed with trails. The big highlight is the view from Gildersleeve Mountain.
From the overlook, you can see across Northeast Ohio. On clear days, Lake Erie shimmers in the distance beyond the treetops.
The trails here have plenty of personality. Expect cliffs, ledges, and big boulders along the way, which keeps the hike interesting.
Many paths are easy enough for casual hikers. The blue trail is a good one for views and spotting wildlife, including some very busy squirrels.
Here’s something unusual. Chapin Forest has a lighted trail for night hiking, a rare treat in a regional park.
Fall color here can be stunning. Golden and red leaves frame the overlook, and the lake adds a cool blue finish to the scene.
Families will appreciate the playground with slides and swings. Picnic tables and barbecue grills make it easy to plan a full afternoon.
A public restroom and a free parking lot are available. Dogs are welcome too, so your furry friend can join the fun.
The park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Weekend afternoons are busiest, so weekday visits feel more relaxed.
Address: 9938 Chillicothe Road (State Route 306), Kirtland, OH 44094
10. Mount Jeez
The name alone makes you want to say it out loud. Mount Jeez is a hilltop overlook near Malabar Farm, and the view lives up to the funny name.
This spot sits high above the surrounding hills near Perrysville. Many people call it the best view in Richland County.
From the top, you can gaze over Malabar Farm and the rolling countryside. Farmland, woods, and hills spread out in every direction like a living painting.
Fall turns that scene into something special. Trees along the hills switch to autumn shades, making a scenic drive here well worth it.
The overlook keeps things simple. You’ll find a couple of benches, a picnic table, and a parking lot.
That simplicity is part of the charm. It’s a peaceful place to sit, unwind, and simply enjoy the quiet.
Stay a little later, and you may catch some stars. The height above the hills makes it a good spot for stargazing, depending on the open hours.
The Mount Jeez overlook is accessible from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. Since daylight hours change throughout the fall, check the sunset time before planning an evening visit.
In winter, the hill becomes a popular place for sledding. So if you love it in fall, you might want to return when the snow flies.
Dogs are welcome, and families will enjoy the open space. Bring a picnic and make it a lazy afternoon.
Address: Perrysville, OH 44864
11. Buzzard’s Roost
With a name like Buzzard’s Roost, you might expect a few feathered neighbors. Sure enough, buzzards are often spotted here, soaring above the cliffs.
This Ross County Park District preserve sits near Chillicothe. It’s known for well-kept hiking trails and spectacular cliff overlooks.
The trails are clearly marked, so getting lost is unlikely. One popular route is a pleasant walk of about 2 miles with great views along the way.
At the overlooks, the land drops away to reveal forest and gorge below. In fall, that scene fills with reds, oranges, and yellows.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Deer are commonly seen on the trails, along with those famous buzzards gliding on the breeze.
The preserve opens early, from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Early risers can catch morning light over the treetops before the crowds arrive.
Picnic tables are available for a snack break. A public restroom adds some comfort to your visit.
Dogs are allowed, so your pup can join the hike. Kids usually handle the trails well, too.
Near the cliff edges, stay on the trail and keep a close watch on little ones. The views are best enjoyed safely.
Weekend afternoons tend to be busiest, while Wednesday afternoons are calmer. Either way, this is a fine way to wrap up an Ohio fall adventure, buzzards included.
Address: 514 Red Bird Ln, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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