Keller Peak Fire Lookout
Historic 1926 fire lookout offering stunning 360-degree mountain vistas and insights from knowledgeable volunteers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Higher chance of volunteer staffing
Keller Peak Fire Lookout
Best Time
Higher chance of volunteer staffing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 1926 fire lookout offering stunning 360-degree mountain vistas and insights from knowledgeable volunteers.
"Breathtaking vistas and fascinating history from a 1926 fire tower, staffed by friendly volunteers."
🚗 Narrow Access Road
The last part of the road is single-lane. Drive slowly and be ready to yield to oncoming traffic.
⏰ Check Volunteer Hours
Volunteers staff the tower, so hours vary. Weekends are often best for guaranteed access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Summit of Keller Peak
Breathtaking 360-degree views stretching for miles, sometimes even to the ocean.
Historic Fire Lookout Tower
Summit of Keller Peak
A historic 1926 fire watch tower offering a glimpse into early wildfire detection methods.
Knowledgeable Volunteer Staff
Keller Peak Fire Lookout Tower
Engage with friendly volunteers who share fascinating history and wildfire reporting insights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access Road Caution
Volunteer-Staffed Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Narrow Access Road
The last part of the road is single-lane. Drive slowly and be ready to yield to oncoming traffic.
⏰ Check Volunteer Hours
Volunteers staff the tower, so hours vary. Weekends are often best for guaranteed access.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Incredible panoramic views await! Capture stunning photos from nearly 8,000 feet.
⛰️ Dress for the Mountains
Even in summer, mountain weather can change. Bring layers for cooler temperatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Access Road
The last part of the road is single-lane. Drive slowly and be ready to yield to oncoming traffic.
⏰ Check Volunteer Hours
Volunteers staff the tower, so hours vary. Weekends are often best for guaranteed access.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Incredible panoramic views await! Capture stunning photos from nearly 8,000 feet.
⛰️ Dress for the Mountains
Even in summer, mountain weather can change. Bring layers for cooler temperatures.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the absolutely breathtaking panoramic views from Keller Peak Fire Lookout, often describing them as some of the best in the region, with some even spotting the ocean. The historic 1926 fire tower and the knowledgeable, friendly volunteers who staff it are frequently highlighted as major draws, offering fascinating insights into wildfire history. However, some visitors have found the tower closed or inaccessible, and the narrow, single-lane access road requires careful driving.
"I will miss Keller Peak. It was such a cool place to visit. I visited on September 1 2024, just 9 days before the fire, and my god, was this so beautiful. I did not get pictures of the inside, but it had some artifacts from over 100 years ago. The building itself was built in 1926. R.I.P Keller Peak 1926-2024"
Gavin
"Great experience! We found two very knowledgeable and friendly Fire Lookout Volunteers at the tower. They taught us so much! No fees and breathtaking vistas. We could see all the way to Catalina.
Only thing to note is that the access road is single lane at times, so it could get kind of interesting if a car is coming the other way!"
Jeffrey Howell
"We saw these amazing views from the Keller Peak at an elevation of almost 8,000 feet near Running Springs in the San Bernardino mountain range today. This fire watch tower post was built in 1926, and is still standing tall. We had a great time with the staff who shared some of the history of this post, and also how they report wild fires as soon as they develop with their azimuth device. Their staff are all volunteers… There are four such post towers in the range. As you are heading towards Big Bear lake from LA area, stop over this one-of-a-kind nature outpost and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views from the Keller Peak ⛰️🏞️🌄
#California #GoldenState #VisitCalifornia #GreatOutdoors"
Sanjay B Dalal, oGoing
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The lookout is accessible via a scenic drive from Big Bear Lake or Running Springs. The final third of the road is single-lane and can be challenging, especially if you encounter oncoming traffic.
The road is paved for a significant portion, but the last section leading directly to the lookout is a narrow, single-lane road.
While many vehicles can make the drive, the narrow, winding road requires careful navigation. Larger RVs or trailers might find it difficult.
Keller Peak sits at an elevation of almost 8,000 feet, offering cooler temperatures and expansive views.
Keller Peak is located in the San Bernardino National Forest, near Big Bear Lake, offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying mountain scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no fee to visit Keller Peak Fire Lookout. It's a free attraction, though donations to support the volunteer staff are appreciated.
The lookout is staffed by volunteers, so hours can vary daily. It's best to visit on weekends for a higher chance of finding staff present.
Access to the interior of the tower depends on whether volunteers are present. Some visitors have reported it being closed, while others have had the chance to see historical artifacts.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. However, checking for any local advisories or volunteer schedules might be helpful.
While the location is generally accessible, winter weather conditions can impact road access. It's advisable to check road conditions during snowy periods.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top are incredible, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and sometimes even the ocean. The historic fire tower itself is also a great subject.
Yes, the high elevation and unobstructed views make Keller Peak an excellent location for capturing stunning sunrise and sunset shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant features.
Generally, photography is welcomed. However, always be respectful of the volunteers and any historical artifacts inside the tower.
Drone usage may be restricted in national forest areas. It's best to check with the U.S. Forest Service for current regulations before flying.
🎫 🌲 Nature & Wildlife
While not guaranteed, visitors have reported seeing bears in the Big Bear area. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
Keller Peak is located within the San Bernardino National Forest, which offers numerous hiking trails for various skill levels.
The area is characterized by pine forests and mountainous terrain, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
The diverse mountain habitat can attract various bird species, making it a potential spot for birdwatchers.
Fire lookouts like Keller Peak were crucial for early wildfire detection, helping to protect vast forest areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the narrow access road; ensure children are safely buckled and aware that the driver will need to concentrate. The breathtaking panoramic views are a fantastic opportunity to teach kids about geography and the scale of the natural world. Pack snacks and water, as amenities are limited. The cool mountain air is also a welcome change for families seeking an outdoor adventure.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
This destination is perfect for a day trip from the Los Angeles area or Big Bear Lake. Combine the visit with other local attractions for a full day of exploration. Remember to check the weather and road conditions, especially if traveling during shoulder seasons, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable drive.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Keller Peak Fire Lookout Tower
While the tower's primary function was wildfire detection, it also offers an unparalleled vantage point. On clear days, the panoramic views from the lookout are simply breathtaking, extending for miles across the mountain ranges and, on exceptionally clear days, even reaching the Pacific Ocean. This expansive vista is a major draw for visitors, providing a sense of scale and the vastness of the California wilderness. The experience of standing atop this historic structure, surrounded by such immense natural beauty, is truly memorable.
It's important for visitors to understand that the tower is staffed by volunteers, which means access to the interior and the availability of staff can vary. While many find the volunteers to be incredibly friendly and informative, there might be days when the tower is closed or only accessible from the outside. Planning a visit for a weekend often increases the likelihood of encountering staff. Despite potential access limitations, the surrounding area still offers incredible views and a chance to appreciate the historical significance of the site.
Navigating the Access Road
This road condition means that larger vehicles, such as RVs or those towing trailers, might find the ascent and descent particularly challenging. While many standard vehicles can manage the drive, a cautious approach is always recommended. The reward for navigating this road is the spectacular destination, but the journey itself is part of the adventure and requires a degree of driving skill and patience.
It's also worth noting that road conditions can be affected by weather, especially during winter months when snow and ice can make the narrow road even more hazardous. Checking local road reports or forest service advisories before heading up is a wise precaution, particularly if you are visiting during the colder seasons.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit