Times have changed
Eventually the tower's original purpose of forest fire detection was no longer required - replaced by modern technology and the increased population and better communication. When the government decided in the 1960's they no longer needed the tower it had already become a popular tourist attraction and residents of Dorset were alarmed to think it would be removed. It had played a part in their lives and from childhood on many had made trips up Dorset Mountain to picnic and climb the tower for a bird's-eye view of "home".

Evaluation & Grand Opening
The government recognized the ongoing value of a look out for the community and took steps to acquire a replacement tower from the Dept. of National Defence. The current tower was originally intended as a radar tower for the (DEW) Distant Early Warning Line during the "Cold War" era. On Sept. 14, 1967 the then Minister of Land & Forests, the Hon. Rene Brunelle officially opened the new "Dorset Scenic Observation Tower and Picnic Site. On that weekend over 8,000 people climbed the tower to appreciate the view.

Today
The tower is now owned and maintained by the Corporation of the Township of Algonquin Highlands and it is estimated that well over 60,000 vehicles access the site annually.

In the spring of 1999 the Hamlet of Dorset began a new and innovative project involving our Dorset Tower. A kiosk and gatehouse has been opened. Our kiosk offers visitors a chance to purchase t-shirts, sweatshirts and caps bearing our Dorset Tower logo. For better viewing we have installed view finders, they are located at the bottom of the Tower at Peek-A-Boo rock and for the strong and hearty one is located at the top of our tower. The Hamlet of Dorset also offers shopping and fine dining for our visitors.

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