Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout — Attraction in California

This 2.5 mile (one-way) trail to the fire tower may seem daunting at first. For two miles (seems like forever), you have to face the ascent towards the base of the fire tower. The PCT intersects the trail, which was cool to see. During the never-ending (not really) ascent, you're met with picturesque views worthy of stopping to catch your breath (I needed a breather with my unfit butt attempting this hike for the first time). After two miles, you're met with the jeep trail (take a left) where you....you guessed it, ascend further up. MORE ASCENDING. Prepare your legs for this last 1/2 mile stretch where every switchback may seem like you're there but nope, another switchback. But don't freit, only after traversing six switchbacks will you then have the fire tower in your sights. It's so close, but there's one obstacle left that stands in your way. The final boss.....STAIRS. and my God will your legs feel like jello after this climb. After maybe 150-200 steps (I didn't count, too busy suffering), you are finally there. The reward you've been working oh so hard for. The fire tower with its 360 degree view of the mountains and lakes on all sides. The view was truly stunning, worthy of the battle that I had to face hiking up here. And for that, I give it 5 stars....

Beautiful location and worth the hike up! Short distance but decent elevation change. The stairs up to the tower at the end have guardrails but are totally exposed so if you have a fear of heights just be ready for that. The views are incredible though. We went a little later in the afternoon and the trail had a decent amount of shade. It's a little hard to find the right point to start, so I'd recommend finding some written directions. Google takes you a way that requires 4 wheel drive, but we were able to find a paved way. If you're on HWY 49, about 5 miles northeast of Sierra City, turn onto Gold Lake Hwy. Then follow signs to Pacer Lake, go past the lake and follow signs to Sierra Buttes. The signs are very washed out but if you're paying attention you'll find them! There's a small parking area right at the trailhead with a sign that says Sierra Buttes...

Where do I even begin…

I read the reviews and knew we’d need a 4x4—which we have. What they don’t tell you is that there are two entrances to this place: One entrance is manageable with any 4x4. The other (which we unknowingly took)? Only a Jeep is getting through that! So how did we make it? We didn’t. 😅We had to park mid trail and hike—and not just any hike. This was an uphill grind the entire way. Every time we thought we were close… we weren’t. Start early—it gets hot fast. Bring snacks and water. Be mentally prepared if you have to hike farther than expected (like we did) and the elevation and height. Was it worth it? HELL YES. You’re way up in the Sierras at 8,500 ft elevation. Once you arrive, there’s a staircase to climb and then—💥—the view....