Header Notice

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

Hidden Signal Towers Of Mount Moosilauke

Published:

by Bunnie Faulk

hidden-signal-towers-of-mount-moosilauke

Have you ever wondered about the hidden gems of New Hampshire? Mount Moosilauke offers more than just breathtaking views. This mountain, part of the White Mountains, hides a fascinating secret: signal towers. These towers, often overlooked, play a crucial role in communication. Hikers usually focus on the trails and scenery, but there's a whole world above them. Imagine standing at the summit, surrounded by nature, and realizing you're near a vital piece of technology. Next time you plan a hike, consider the hidden signal towers of Mount Moosilauke. They add a unique twist to your adventure.

Hidden Signal Towers of Mount Moosilauke

Mount Moosilauke, a gem in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, holds secrets beyond its stunning vistas and challenging trails. Among these secrets are hidden signal towers, remnants of a bygone era when communication relied on line-of-sight towers. These structures, often overlooked by hikers, tell stories of innovation and perseverance. Let's uncover some of these hidden gems.

The First Signal Tower

The first signal tower on Mount Moosilauke stands as a testament to early communication efforts. Built in the early 20th century, this tower was part of a network designed to relay messages across vast distances.

  1. Location: Near the summit, just off the Benton Trail.
  2. History: Constructed in 1912, it was used for fire spotting and military communication.
  3. Current State: Though partially collapsed, remnants of the wooden structure can still be seen.
  4. Interesting Fact: It was one of the first towers to use heliographs, a device that uses sunlight to send Morse code.

The Second Signal Tower

Another hidden gem lies deeper within the forest, away from the main trails. This tower played a crucial role during World War II.

  1. Location: Off the Glencliff Trail, about a mile from the summit.
  2. History: Built in 1941, it was part of a secret military project to monitor enemy aircraft.
  3. Current State: Overgrown with vegetation, only the base remains visible.
  4. Interesting Fact: Locals used to call it the "Ghost Tower" due to its eerie appearance at night.

The Third Signal Tower

The third tower is perhaps the most elusive, hidden in a dense thicket. It served a unique purpose during its operational years.

  1. Location: Near the South Peak, accessible via a narrow, unmarked path.
  2. History: Erected in 1935, it was used for weather observation and early warning systems.
  3. Current State: Mostly intact, though nature has reclaimed much of it.
  4. Interesting Fact: It had a wind-powered generator, a rare feature for its time.

The Fourth Signal Tower

This tower, though lesser-known, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. It was part of a civilian project aimed at improving communication in remote areas.

  1. Location: Hidden along the Beaver Brook Trail.
  2. History: Built in 1928, it was used by local communities for emergency communication.
  3. Current State: Only the foundation stones remain, scattered among the trees.
  4. Interesting Fact: It was one of the first towers to experiment with radio waves.

The Fifth Signal Tower

The final tower on our list is shrouded in mystery and folklore. Its exact purpose remains unclear, but it adds to the allure of Mount Moosilauke.

  1. Location: Deep within the woods, off the Carriage Road Trail.
  2. History: Believed to have been built in the late 1800s, its origins are still debated.
  3. Current State: Completely overgrown, with only faint traces of its existence.
  4. Interesting Fact: Some say it was used by early settlers for signaling between villages.

Discovering the Hidden Signal Towers

Mount Moosilauke offers more than just breathtaking views. The hidden signal towers scattered across the mountain add an element of mystery and history to your hike. These towers, remnants of a bygone era, provide a unique glimpse into the past. Exploring them can make your trek even more rewarding.

Whether you're an avid hiker or a history enthusiast, the hidden signal towers of Mount Moosilauke are worth the visit. They stand as silent witnesses to the mountain's rich history, waiting to be discovered by those who venture off the beaten path.

Next time you find yourself on Mount Moosilauke, take a moment to seek out these hidden gems. They add a layer of intrigue to an already stunning landscape, making your adventure truly unforgettable.