Alder Ridge Lookout
Closed to public use. The site is undergoing historic restoration with the possibility of becoming a recreation rental in the future. No public camping or reservations are available.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Twin Lakes Trailhead Parking Lot Closure
Starting on September 9th 2026 and continuing for two weeks the Twin Lakes TH parking lot will be closed due to the repaving of the access road. Do not park in the lot beyond September 8th. Be prepared to use detours or alternate routes such as starting at the Rockbound TH. Please use caution…
About
Alder Ridge Lookout is a historic facility in the Eldorado National Forest originally constructed in 1937 by the Placerville Ranger District in collaboration with the Civilian Conservation Corps. The compound sits at 6,225 feet elevation and comprises three structures: a 60-foot fire observation tower, a single-car garage, and a ranger cabin. The site was determined eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places in 1990. The Eldorado National Forest is undertaking deferred maintenance and restoration work on the lookout with funding from the Great American Outdoors Act, partnering with nonprofit HistoriCorps for preservation efforts. The goal is to potentially convert the structure into a recreation rental for public use in the future, though no timeline has been announced. The site currently has a composting toilet but no potable water.
Directions
28 miles east of Placerville turn right on 11N47, continue to the Y and stay right. Keep right again onto 10N35 and follow to the end of the road and the lookout.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 622-5061 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
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