Built in 1954, this steel tower remains Nevada’s only continuously operated fire lookout, staffed seasonally by the Forest Service. The 80-foot tower offers dramatic 360-degree views across the Ruby Mountains, Jarbidge Wilderness, and seemingly endless Great Basin ranges. Visitors can climb partway up the tower and interact with the fire lookout observer during staffed periods, typically July through September.
The final 6 miles require 4WD due to steep, rocky terrain with loose surfaces. Snow blocks access from October through June. The road gains 2,000 feet in elevation over those final miles, making it one of Nevada’s more challenging fire lookout accesses.
Nevada's last active tower in the Ruby Mountains
Place Details
| Type | Fire Lookout |
|---|---|
| Street address | Nevada Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 10442 ft |
| Nearest town | Elko, Nevada |
| Miles from pavement | 22 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | 4WD |
| Access road surface | Rocky |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Best season | July-September |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |