Mount Rutsen, in Ferncliff Forest near Rhinebeck, has long served as a lookout point. Its summit first held a stone observation tower built by the Astors, then a United States Coast and Geodetic Survey tower used for map-making. During World War II, the United States Army Corps of Engineers constructed an enclosed watch tower there so full-time observers could scan the Hudson Valley for enemy aircraft, including threats to President Roosevelt's home and to aircraft approaching New York City. After the war, the tower became a popular recreational attraction. Deemed unsafe in 2006, it was replaced in 2007 by the current observation tower.

Barrytown, New York · USA