Does your childhood hold a ‘lookout mountain’? Was there a special place, known only to yourself, where you went to consider the mysteries of life?
Mine was located directly behind my childhood home. The ground rose so steeply it was necessary to lean forward to climb to its plateau. Once arrived at the top of this well-worn New England hill, I could lie down and be out of sight beneath swaying tall grass. There, warmed by the sun, only nature’s creatures invaded my private place and thoughts.
When I sat up, it was possible to see my familiar surroundings and much more beyond. Alone except for an occasional fly or bee, my thoughts could roam far beyond the confines of daily existence, exploring possibilities only the imagination could conjure.
This need for a ‘lookout mountain’ must be a peculiar American thing as our country has several spots designated with that official title. Most well-know is the area just minutes from downtown Chattanooga, TN. Lookout Mountain, Tennessee provide a spectacular view of the Chattanooga Valley. From its observation deck, seven U. S. states can be seen on a clear day: Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.
Other states that boast their own Lookout Mountain include Montana, Oregon and Minnesota. Lookout Mountain Summit in Lewis and Clark County, Montana has an elevation that peaks at 8,180 feet. At 6,525 feet, the summit of Lookout Mountain, Oregon provides a stunning view of the east face of Mount Hood. Lookout Mountain Loop, Minnesota at an elevation of 1,545 feet includes views of Lake Superior and waterfalls on the Cascade River, all packed into this interesting 4.1-mi loop.
If you’re interested in planning a trip to include a couple Lookout Mountains, be forewarned: the driving distance from Waconia, Minnesota to Lookout Mountain, Georgia is 1,016 Miles/1635 Km. How many hours? 17 hours. 17 mins.
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