Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2.5-3.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
332 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Mount Tom Fire Lookout Hike is an awesome adventure in the Sierra National Forest that travels through beautiful landscapes. Wander the shared off-roading route through the woodlands up to the summit of Mount Tom that boasts breathtaking panoramas of the High Sierra.

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Route Description for Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail

The Mount Tom Fire Lookout Hike is a must-add to your Sierra National Forest itinerary. Meander through lush forestlands adorned with immense granite outcrops and up to the Fire Lookout. Shared with intrepid off-roaders, it is important to be mindful of passers-by as you wander—especially when traveling with kids and pets! Note the road to the trailhead is rough, so we urge you to bring a vehicle with high ground clearance and 4-wheel drive. Additionally, the road to the trailhead is subject to seasonal closure in the winter months!

Embark on your adventure along the Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail from the trailhead off Stump Springs Road. From here, the Mount Tom Lookout Road heads northwest. Soon after departing the trailhead, you will pass over a snowmelt creek before being diverted southwest. Enjoy the sights of the towering pines and red firs as you progress along the route. Mind your footing on the rocky terrain, and the winding terrain will soon guide you up a switchback to the summit of Mount Tom.

At the summit, you will likely be in the company of several other adventurers enjoying the vistas. Revel in the beauty of the dramatic landscape, and if there is someone manning the fire tower, they may even let you up to the top of the tower! Either way, the panoramic views will overwhelm you. After marveling at the scenery, retrace your footing back along the path back to the trailhead.

Getting to the Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail Trailhead

The Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail is accessed via Stump Springs Road.

Route Information

  • Backcountry Campground

    Backcountry Camping, wilderness permit required.

  • When to do

    April-October

  • Pets allowed

    Yes

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail Elevation Graph

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Mount Tom Fire Lookout Trail Reviews

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