"Wow that's totally awesome". the small girl exclaimed as her eyes widened with wonderment then squinted to see the detail in the valley 50 miles away. Her hand clinches on Dads as she looks over the rail at the SUV 80 feet below.

The tower sways and the small flags whip in the wind as the ranger looks for any whisper of smoke in the forest. When he sees none he pulls a small cardboard box from a shelf and holds it in front of the child.

"Would you like a Smoky Bear bracelet or a pencil or eraser? I have small rulers also."

Children in small numbers are welcome to visit the tower as long as the ranger is not working a fire.

To get there from Payson go east on highway 260 past Christopher Creek to the top of the Rim. Turn left on the Young Road (f.r.512). Go south about 3 miles and turn right on Colcord road. Go about 3 miles and you will see the tower.