A Panoramic Escape at Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

Discover breathtaking views and rich history at Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout, an iconic scenic spot along the Pacific Crest Trail in California.

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Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

Experience breathtaking views and natural beauty at the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout, an iconic scenic spot for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists alike. Nestled along the Pacific Crest Trail, this picturesque lookout offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the Sierra Nevada region.

A brief summary to Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

Pacific Crest Trail, Sierra City, California, 96125, US
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Local tips

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be rocky and steep.
Bring plenty of water and snacks to stay energized during your hike.
Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Consider visiting in the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy milder temperatures.

Getting There

Car

From the town of Sierra City, head east on CA-49 S for approximately 2 miles. Turn left on Gold Lake Road (Forest Route 7) and continue for about 8 miles. This will take you to the parking area for the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout trailhead. The road may be narrow and winding, so drive carefully. Once you reach the parking area, you will need to hike the remaining distance to the lookout.
Public Transportation + Hiking

If you're using public transportation, take a bus or shuttle service to Sierra City, CA. Once you arrive in Sierra City, you'll need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you to the Gold Lake Road intersection. From there, you will hike approximately 3 miles to the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout. Be prepared with a map and proper hiking gear, as the trail can be steep and rocky.
ATV/4x4 Vehicle

If you have access to an ATV or a 4x4 vehicle, you can take a more direct route to the lookout. From Sierra City, travel east on CA-49 S and turn left onto Gold Lake Road. Follow this road until you reach the trail that leads directly to the lookout. Note that this route may require a vehicle with high clearance, and some trails may have specific usage fees or permits required.

Discover more about Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

The Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout stands as a remarkable testament to the beauty of California's Sierra Nevada mountains. Perched high above the rugged terrain, this scenic spot offers visitors unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The lookout can be reached via a short hike along the historic Pacific Crest Trail, which promises not only a rewarding destination but also a journey filled with the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. As you ascend, you'll encounter vibrant wildflowers, towering pines, and possibly even local wildlife, enhancing the experience. Once you reach the summit, the sight of the Sierra Buttes stretching across the horizon is nothing short of breathtaking. Here, the landscape unfolds into a tapestry of valleys, peaks, and lakes, each more captivating than the last. For those seeking a serene escape, the lookout provides a perfect spot to rest, reflect, and immerse yourself in nature. Additionally, the area is rich in history, with the fire lookout itself dating back to the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the past. Whether you're an avid hiker, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to bask in the beauty of nature, the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout is an unforgettable highlight in your travel itinerary. Plan your visit to this enchanting location and discover the tranquility and awe that awaits above the treetops.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kentucky Mine Museum

3.2 km

Discover California's Gold Rush history at the Kentucky Mine Museum in Sierra City: Explore a preserved mine, operational stamp mill, and captivating stories of the past.

Sierra County Historical Society

3.2 km

Explore the rich heritage of Sierra County at the Sierra County Historical Society, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and personal stories.

Downieville Museum

15.9 km

Discover Downieville's Gold Rush history at the Downieville Museum, housed in an 1852 stone building, showcasing artifacts, photos, and stories of this captivating mountain town.

Tahoe National Forest

24.0 km

Discover rugged beauty, historic sites, and year-round recreation in Tahoe National Forest, a vast Sierra Nevada treasure offering hiking, skiing, and unparalleled natural experiences.

California Historical Landmarks 628 and 629: Alpha and Omega

32.2 km

Explore the remnants of California's Gold Rush at Alpha and Omega, where hydraulic mining reshaped the landscape and left a lasting legacy near Nevada City.

California Historical Landmarks 628 and 629: Alpha and Omega

Overland Emigrant Trail (California Historical Landmark No. 799-2)

33.8 km

Walk in the footsteps of pioneers on this historic trail near Soda Springs, CA, and discover the resilience and spirit of the American West during the California Gold Rush era.

Overland Emigrant Trail (California Historical Landmark No. 799-2)

Henness Pass Road Historical Site

36.1 km

Discover the rugged beauty and rich history of the Sierra Nevada on the Henness Pass Road, a historic route through the Tahoe National Forest, echoing tales of pioneers and gold rush days.

Historic Airplane Navigation Beacon

40.3 km

Discover a piece of aviation history at the Historic Airplane Navigation Beacon on Donner Summit, a relic from the pioneering days of airmail and cross-country flight in the United States.

Historic Summit Tunnel

40.9 km

Explore the Historic Summit Tunnel, an iconic 19th-century engineering marvel in the Sierra Nevada, perfect for history and nature enthusiasts.

Edwards Crossing Bridge

41.2 km

Discover the historic Edwards Crossing Bridge near Nevada City, CA: a scenic gateway to swimming, hiking, and Gold Rush history in the South Yuba River State Park.

Donner Summit Bridge

41.5 km

Explore the breathtaking Donner Summit Bridge, a historic landmark in California's Sierra Nevada, combining stunning views and rich history.

Miners Foundry Cultural Center

48.8 km

Explore the rich history and vibrant cultural scene at Miners Foundry Cultural Center in Nevada City, home to live music, art, and community events.

Cement Hill Nisenan burial site-

49.0 km

Discover the poignant history and enduring legacy of the Nisenan people at the Cement Hill burial site in Nevada City, a place of remembrance and cultural significance.

Old Truckee Jail Museum

49.3 km

Explore the Old Truckee Jail Museum, a captivating historical site that unveils the stories of the Wild West in California's stunning Sierra Nevada region.

Gold Run historic landmark

50.0 km

Explore Gold Run, a historic landmark steeped in California's Gold Rush history, surrounded by breathtaking Sierra Nevada landscapes.

Unmissable attractions to see

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

32.8 km

Discover California's Gold Rush history at Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park, where hydraulic mining shaped the landscape and a ghost town whispers tales of the past.

“China Wall” on Donner Summit

41.7 km

Explore the captivating China Wall on Donner Summit, a stunning natural wonder offering breathtaking views and unforgettable outdoor adventures in Truckee, California.

Donner Lake

44.6 km

Experience the tranquility and breathtaking beauty of Donner Lake, a prime destination for outdoor adventures in Truckee, California.

Golden Drift Museum

46.0 km

Explore the Golden Drift Museum in Dutch Flat, California – a captivating journey through the rich history of the Gold Rush era.

Donner Memorial State Park

46.7 km

Discover the scenic beauty and historical significance of Donner Memorial State Park, a top destination for outdoor adventures in California.

KidZone Museum

47.7 km

Inspiring young minds through creative play and discovery in Truckee, California. Hands-on exhibits for kids under 7!

Fire House #1 Museum

48.6 km

Explore the legacy of firefighting at Fire House #1 Museum in Nevada City, where history and community converge in a charming historic setting.

Pioneer Park

48.6 km

Explore Pioneer Park in Nevada City, CA - a serene retreat filled with lush landscapes, walking trails, and vibrant community events.

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Nevada City

48.7 km

Explore Nevada City's hidden treasures and rich history through an engaging scavenger hunt adventure perfect for all ages.

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Nevada City

China Wall Staging Area

49.2 km

Explore the stunning China Wall Staging Area in Foresthill, California, where breathtaking views and adventure await in every corner of this scenic paradise.

Historic Downtown Truckee & Visitor Center

49.4 km

Explore Historic Downtown Truckee: A blend of rich history, unique shopping, and picturesque mountain views in the heart of the Sierra Nevada.

Historic Downtown Truckee & Visitor Center

Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

49.8 km

Discover Nevada County's transportation history at this museum dedicated to the narrow gauge railroad era.

Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

Empire Mine State Historic Park

54.9 km

Step back in time at California's Empire Mine, explore historic buildings, and discover the golden legacy of the Gold Rush era.

Northstar Mining Museum

56.2 km

Explore California's Gold Rush history at the Northstar Mining Museum in Grass Valley, home to the world's largest Pelton wheel and authentic mining exhibits.

Palisades Tahoe

56.4 km

Discover the thrilling slopes and stunning vistas of Palisades Tahoe, a premier ski resort nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, perfect for every winter sports enthusiast.

Experience exquisite sushi and delightful Japanese cuisine in the heart of Tahoe City with breathtaking views of Lake Tahoe.

Subway

64.0 km

Discover fresh flavors at Subway in Tahoe City—your go-to spot for delicious sandwiches and salads amidst stunning landscapes.

Discover the ultimate cycling experience at Gravity Shop in Tahoe City, a friendly hub for bike repairs and local trail knowledge.

BlueZone Sports - Tahoe City

64.0 km

Explore the great outdoors with top-notch gear and expert advice at BlueZone Sports in Tahoe City - your adventure starts here.

Discover The Loving Cup, Reno's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet live music in a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Afterglow Lounge

71.4 km

Experience vibrant nightlife at Afterglow Lounge in Reno, where upscale cocktails meet live music and a stylish ambiance.

Tonic Lounge

71.6 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reno at Tonic Lounge, where great music and an energetic atmosphere await every night.

Eden Nightclub

71.6 km

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Eden Nightclub in Reno, NV, where music, dance, and vibrant energy collide for an unforgettable evening.

The Cabaret Bar

71.6 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Cabaret Bar in Circus Circus Resort, where live entertainment meets a sophisticated lounge atmosphere.

5 Star Saloon

71.7 km

Discover the lively atmosphere of 5 Star Saloon in Reno, a night club blending cocktails, karaoke, and community for an unforgettable night out.

Aura Ultra Lounge

71.7 km

Aura Ultra Lounge in Reno: Your ultimate destination for vibrant nightlife, electrifying music, and exquisite cocktails, perfect for an unforgettable evening out.

NoVi

71.8 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reno at NoVi, a premier nightclub with lively music, signature cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

LCB Inc

72.0 km

Discover the electrifying atmosphere of LCB Inc, Reno's top night club, offering unforgettable music and vibrant nightlife experiences.

250 Lounge

72.2 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Reno at 250 Lounge, a premier destination for cocktails, dining, and dancing in a lively atmosphere.

The Bird Reno

72.4 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Reno at The Bird, a cabaret club with electrifying performances and unforgettable entertainment.

Terrace Lounge

73.3 km

Experience the lively spirit of Reno at the Terrace Lounge, where chic ambiance meets exceptional cocktails and live music.

BellacXs

74.0 km

Discover the electrifying nightlife of Reno at BellacXs, a premier night club offering music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.

LEX Nightclub

74.8 km

Discover unparalleled nightlife at LEX Nightclub, Reno's premier destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable nights out.

Oak Room Lounge

75.3 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Oak Room Lounge in Sparks, Nevada, with craft cocktails, live music, and a lively atmosphere perfect for socializing.

Millennium Night Club

75.3 km

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Sparks at Millennium Night Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

A Panoramic Escape at Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

A brief summary to Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation + Hiking

ATV/4x4 Vehicle

Unlock the Best of Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kentucky Mine Museum

Sierra County Historical Society

Downieville Museum

Tahoe National Forest

California Historical Landmarks 628 and 629: Alpha and Omega

Overland Emigrant Trail (California Historical Landmark No. 799-2)

Henness Pass Road Historical Site

Historic Airplane Navigation Beacon

Historic Summit Tunnel

Edwards Crossing Bridge

Donner Summit Bridge

Miners Foundry Cultural Center

Cement Hill Nisenan burial site-

Old Truckee Jail Museum

Gold Run historic landmark

Unmissable attractions to see

Malakoff Diggins State Historic Park

“China Wall” on Donner Summit

Donner Lake

Golden Drift Museum

Donner Memorial State Park

KidZone Museum

Fire House #1 Museum

Pioneer Park

Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Nevada City

China Wall Staging Area

Historic Downtown Truckee & Visitor Center

Nevada County Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum

Empire Mine State Historic Park

Northstar Mining Museum

Palisades Tahoe

Essential places to dine

Six Peaks Grille

River Ranch Lodge & Restaurant

CB's Bistro

Gar Woods Grill & Pier

Old Post Office Cafe

Cafe Zenon

Thai Kitchen

BLUEFISH

Fat Cat Bar & Grill

Pepper's

Pete 'n Peters

Rosie's Café

Duff’s Diner

Tahoe City Sushi

Subway

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Trading Post Shopping Center

Ruffles & Ruffnecks

Alpine Heritage

New & Used Tahoe Sports

Lather & Fizz Bath Boutique

Geared For Games

Pass It On Thrift

Tahoe Slab Furniture

Lake Tahoe Business Search

The Hot Spot Tahoe ~ Pottery Painting Candle Making & More

Leffler Leather Goods

Tipsy Gypsy Boutique

Cabin Fever

Gravity Shop

BlueZone Sports - Tahoe City

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Tahoe Wine Collective

Shim's Tavern

Our Bar