River Forest Lookout Tower Offers Unmatched Views

The River Forest Lookout, also known as the Tower Top Tiny House, is an extraordinary example of creative container architecture. The concept is simple yet brilliant: elevate a small shipping container home atop a tower crane structure to provide unparalleled views of the surrounding forest canopy. This unique design offers the dream of treetop living with the comforts of modern life, nestled deep in Georgia’s Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

Journey to the River Forest Lookout

To reach the River Forest Lookout, you’ll journey about 15 miles from Blue Ridge, Georgia, a quaint town of just over 1000 residents. The route takes you up 700 feet in elevation through lush forest terrain until you arrive at a secluded 14-acre property near the Jacks River and the Cohutta Wilderness. From there, it’s a 1.5-mile hike through the forest to reach the base of the tower. Thankfully, the owners will deliver your gear, so you can enjoy the hike unburdened.

At 2400 feet above sea level, the property offers a cooler, fresher environment than lower regions. And that’s before you ascend the tower, which rises an additional 60 feet above the forest floor, offering breathtaking vistas of the untouched wilderness.

Innovative Construction and Tower Design

The foundation of the River Forest Lookout is a massive concrete footing that anchors the towering structure. Built using sections of commercial tower cranes, the sturdy frame supports the elevated containers. Unlike a typical tower crane ladder, a staircase was added for accessibility, allowing guests to climb to the sky comfortably.

At the summit, two 20-foot shipping containers sit 10 feet apart, connected by an open-air breezeway. A metal grate floor ensures safety while maintaining the open, airy feeling of being above the treetops. An electric hoist basket is also attached, so you can easily lift gear to the containers without carrying it up the stairs.

Inside the Elevated Containers

The two containers serve distinct purposes. One container houses a spacious bathroom complete with a toilet, sink, shower, and storage for personal items. This design prioritises comfort and functionality, ensuring plenty of room to move around.

The other container is the main living area, featuring a double bed, kitchenette, and dining space. Floor-to-ceiling glass on three sides provides 270-degree views of the forest, immersing you in nature while maintaining the comforts of home. A glass door leads to a cantilevered balcony, equipped with a BBQ grill and a small dining area, perfect for enjoying meals with a view.

For those craving even more height, a spiral staircase in the breezeway leads to a rooftop patio. Here, guests can enjoy uninterrupted stargazing and a 360-degree panorama of the forest.

Off-Grid Living with Modern Conveniences

The River Forest Lookout is entirely off-grid, making it a remarkable feat of sustainable design. Solar panels atop the structure provide electricity, while propane is used for cooking and hot water. Water is sourced from an on-site well and pumped to the elevated containers. Despite its remote location, the lookout offers modern conveniences in a tranquil setting. The clever design combines sustainability with comfort, allowing guests to connect with nature without sacrificing essential amenities.

Nature, Solitude, and Unparalleled Views

Perched high above the forest, the River Forest Lookout offers an unmatched opportunity to experience solitude and serenity. Guests have immediate access to the expansive wilderness of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, with endless trails and natural beauty to explore.

The elevated perspective provides breathtaking views, from the dense forest canopy below to the vast night sky above. It’s a retreat designed for those seeking peace, adventure, and a one-of-a-kind connection with nature. Whether you’re looking to unwind or explore, the River Forest Lookout delivers an unforgettable experience.