National Interagency Fire Center, Boise

Idaho is often ravaged by summer forest fires. Luckily though, the National Interagency Fire Center is located in Boise. Founded in 1965, the facility houses equipment that helps firefighters across the western United States, including Alaska. During the free tours, visitors learn about special equipment for detecting lightning storms and the role of smokejumpers. The Wildland Firefighters Monument pays homage to firefighters with poetry along the pathway and statues by Larry Nowlan. Public tours take place Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9a.