Chalone Peak Fire Lookout

The Chalone Peak Fire Lookout rises above North Chalone Peak's rocky summit.

NPS Photo/Chris Symons

Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in 1935, the Chalone Peak Fire Lookout was built on North Chalone Peak to help detect and monitor wildfires across the surrounding landscape. The two-story lookout featured a stone-faced lower level, a windowed observation room, and an exterior balcony that provided panoramic views in every direction. Although the original structure was destroyed by fire in 1951 and replaced the following year, Chalone Peak continued its legacy of monitoring the park's environment. In 1986, an automatic camera was installed at the site to measure visibility and track air quality.  Today, the tower remains a recognizable landmark on the skyline. It can be reached from the east side of the park by hiking beyond the Bear Gulch Reservoir via either the Moses Spring Trail or the Rim Trail, which both connect to the Chalone Peak Trail leading to the summit.

Tags: pinnacles national park, fire lookout, air quality monitoring, ccc, wildland fire, wildland fire california