Woman standing at the lookout tower of Tahquitz Peak in the San Jacinto Wilderness in Southern California

Lookout Above

The views are reason enough to go. The history is what makes these hikes even more interesting. From a forested perch on Palomar Mountain to one of Southern California's highest fire lookouts, these historic towers have been helping people watch over the landscape for generations. Here are three lookouts that still reward the climb.

Week: 06.10.2026
Regions: Southern CA

Lookout Ahead!

Hike to Boucher Hill Fire Lookout in Palomar Mountain State Park

San Diego County
Hikes
A 3.7-mile loop hike to Boucher Hill Fire Lookout in Palomar Mountain State Park reminds us just how stunningly beautiful are the mountains of this remote, lightly visited portion of northern San Diego County.
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Take the Exit to the Best of the San Francisco Peninsula

The Quintessential NorCal Experience: All in One Place

Sponsored
The San Francisco Peninsula is proof that some of Northern California’s greatest surprises are hiding just off Highway 101. All you have to do is take the exit.
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Strawberry Sunday

Hike to Strawberry Peak Lookout Near Lake Arrowhead

Inland Empire
Hikes
Strawberry Peak Lookout Hike
The 2.5-mile (round-trip) lollipop loop climb to the Strawberry Peak Fire Lookout near the town of Lake Arrowhead dishes up some delicious views.
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Peak on Climbing!

Hike to the Tahquitz Peak Lookout in the San Jacinto Wilderness

Inland Empire
Hikes, Dog Friendly
Hike to Tahquitz Peak Lookout via the Devil's Slide Trail in
Hike to the Tahquitz Peak Lookout via the Devil’s Slide Trail in the San Jacinto Wilderness for amazing views of the surrounding mountains and the Salton Sea.
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A Hiker looking over a mountain range

Your Inbox to the Outdoors

Stay up to date with our weekly recommendations on where to explore locally in California.

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  1. Woman hiking the San Onofre Bluffs Loop Trail to San Onofre State Beach in San Diego County

    Bluffing Good!

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  3. The Big Chill

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