Guardian of the Mountain
Mount Penn’s Best View of Berks County — 360° and Up to 60 Awesome Miles!
Welcome to the historic William Penn Memorial Fire Tower!
High atop Mount Penn, the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower has watched over Reading and Berks County since 1939. Built as both a fire observation tower and visitor attraction, this 120-foot landmark tells a remarkable story of ingenuity, community pride, and preservation. We invite you to explore its history, discover the architectural details that make it unique, and join us in protecting the Guardian of the Mountain for generations to come.
“We’re taking the Tower to new heights! Join us Saturday, October 17, 2026, as we celebrate the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower’s anniversary and unveil our expanded new website. Keep watch—something exciting is rising on the mountain!”
— Board of Directors, Pagoda-Skyline, Incorporated
You’re Invited!
Join us for a birthday celebration at one of Berks County’s most treasured landmarks! Hear fascinating stories from local historians, tour the historic Tower, shop exclusive vintage merchandise, and climb all the way to the top. Everyone who reaches the top will receive a free “I Saved the Tower” button while supplies last. Bring the family and help us celebrate our history, community, and unforgettable views!
Saturday, October 17th, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
William Penn Memorial Fire Tower
621 Skyline Drive, Reading, PA 19606
Tower Sundays
are back!
12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Tower Sundays return November 15, 2026! Bring the family, climb the historic Tower, explore the mountaintop, and experience some of the best views in Berks County.
Climb 156 steps to an elevation of 1,240 feet and enjoy spectacular 360° views of Berks County from high atop Mount Penn. On a clear day, you can see Philadelphia! Receive your Official Climber Button or Sticker when you reach the top!
During your visit, discover the rich history of the mountain and its treasured landmarks.
Explore the grounds, enjoy a picnic, or take a walk along the surrounding trails.
Amenities: Accessible restrooms, plenty of parking, shop our Vintage Mountain Merch pop-up tent, and enjoy the serenity at the Tower!
It’s family fun on the mountain…
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WPMFT Anniversary
Saturday,
October 17, 2026
11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m.Celebrate the Tower’s birthday with local historian lectures! Shop vintage merch—and reach the top to receive a free “I Saved the Tower” button while supplies last!
Bring your family and join us!
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2026-2027 Tower Sundays
Sundays,
12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
November 15, 2026
December 20, 2026
April 18, 2027
May 16, 2027
June 20, 2027
July 18, 2027
August 15, 2027
September 19, 2027
October 17, 2027
November 21, 2027
December 19, 2027 -
2027 Easter Dawn Service
Sunday,
March 28, 2027
6:30 a.m.
Pastor Mike Reinert, Grace United Methodist ChurchGather at the Tower as the sun rises for a cherished community tradition of worship, reflection and renewal.
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Chicken Bake Sale
Saturday,
April 24, 2027Powered by dedicated volunteers, our annual Chicken Bake raises essential funds to preserve the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower and the Skyline Drive area in Reading, Pennsylvania.
Details to come!
Stand Tall With Us!
Whether you have a little time to volunteer, want to become a member, make a donation or explore a community partnership, there’s a place for you in the Tower team. Opportunities are available at every level and skill, so come be part of the excitement—and help preserve this treasured landmark for generations to come!
Volunteer Opportunities Coming Soon!
About the poster: The Works Progress Administration (WPA) was an American New Deal agency that employed millions of job seekers to carry out public works projects, including the construction of public buildings and roads. It was set up on May 6, 1935, by presidential order, as a key part of the Second New Deal. Under the WPA, the William Penn Memorial Fire Tower was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps!