black mountain fire lookout

My 17 month old son hiked almost all the way to the top! His first peak :) I've visited lots of fire lookouts and this was one of the nicest ones. Great hosts at the tower - George and Charlotte - were very gracious with hospitality and answered our questions. Thank you!!

A modern up graded Fire Lookout. good parking Although its on dirt. Not far from Boulder Basin campground. Camped there several times .

Looking for an adventure near Idyllwild? Visit the Black Mountain Fire Lookout. The drive up a narrow forest service road is spectacular. So is the view from the tower at nearly 8,000 feet.Despite what the San Bernardino National Forest Association says on their website about driving all the way to the tower, you must park and walk about 1/2 mile up the road to get to it. My six year old made it with many breaks and complaints. There is no water or restrooms at the tower. Vault toilets (p-u) are at Boulder Basin Campground (beautiful at 7,400 feet) 1/2 mile below the tower. The tower is staffed by volunteers from 9:00 to 5:00 between Memorial Day and Labor Day.Take Highway 243 north out of Idyllwild for 8.1 miles to the turn-off to Black Mountain Road (Forest Road 4S01). This dirt road climbs through a forest of oak and pine to Boulder Basin Campground. Park off the road to the left of the campground because the road to the tower has a locked gate. Don't forget to display your Adventure Pass.