Morton Peak Lo

About

Morton Peak Fire Lookout stands at 4,624 feet in the foothills below the San Bernardino Mountains, serving as an active fire detection station operated by volunteer observers. The original lookout was built in 1934 but destroyed in a 1959 wildfire. The current 14x14-foot CL-100 metal cab tower was constructed in 1960 and restored in 2001 by volunteers from the San Bernardino National Forest Association. When staffed, visitors can drive to the summit and tour the cab, which houses an Osborne Fire Finder used to pinpoint wildfire locations. When unstaffed or during fire emergencies, the access gate is locked and visitors must park below and hike 1.5 miles to the peak. The lookout provides sweeping views toward Highway 38, Forest Falls, and the fire-prone mountain terrain it monitors. This is a day-use facility only. The overnight rental program that previously allowed public stays at the lookout has been discontinued.

Directions

From Redlands/Mentone, take Highway 38 toward Forest Falls/Big Bear. Approximately 1.5 miles past Mill Creek Ranger Station, turn left onto Forest Service Road 1N12 (narrow dirt road; high clearance vehicle recommended). Continue 1.5 miles to the gate, then 1.5 miles further on Road 1S13 to the peak.