The High Knob Observation Tower was perched atop High Knob, at an elevation of about 4,162 feet. On a clear day, visitors could view spots in Kentucky, West Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

The tower was made of wood except for a stone foundation, and visitors reached the top by way of winding stairs leading to several levels of observation deck. No ramps or elevators existed for people in wheelchairs or with other physical limitations.

Preliminary plans call for the new tower to be of a similar shape to the old one, but made of flameproof material. Designs now call for the new tower to be a little shorter than the old one, but more accessible by way of a long ramp from the ground level to the observation deck.

Other improvements at the site could be a new handicap-accessible trail to get folks to the ramp, “interpretive panels” on the observation deck to tell people about the view they’re seeing and picnic areas.

The High Knob Enhancement Corp. also hopes eventually to build a visitor’s center and restaurant somewhere on High Knob, renovate the High Knob campground and create a marketing plan for the attractions.