Trail Overview

This trail circumnavigates the Big Hill fire lookout tower. Make sure to pop up the short road to the lookout as this provides dramatic 360 views of the surrounding gorgeous wilderness, and there is an official scenic lookout viewing platform. The tower is also actively manned during the fire season, and the keeper is friendly and will typically allow visitation of the tower. There is also a heliport that provides quick helicopter access to any festering forest fires. The trail itself is not difficult, and though occasionally narrow, it will allow full-sized rigs to pass. There are periodic views of Union Valley reservoir along the trail, and a few decent, remote camping spots as well. There are no obstacles to speak of; this is mostly forest service roads. There are a few spurs that also emanate from this trail that are fun to explore.

Photos of Big Hill Lookout

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Difficulty

There are some shelf components to this trail and it can be a bit overgrown, but no difficult obstacles.

Technical Rating

Reese Taylor

Dec 24, 2025

Open

Good trail still, not too much mud. Snowed on us on the way out

Jim XO

Dec 06, 2025

Open

First time at this trail and I loved it. It’s fun, easy for the most part and doable. Lots to explore actually, various trails around the logging power line section. I just went the on x route. I will definitely return to explore more. I went on a nice day. Most route is soft dirt/mud, then rocky once you get deeper up the hill. Good beginner spot. Lookout tower is added bonus once you exit out the trail.

Bryan Ferguson

Nov 15, 2025

Open

The trail was nice and wet from the rain yesterday. Plenty of muddy sections, but nothing too difficult. There were some downed trees, but nothing blocking the trail. There is a boulder in the trail at one point, but it was easy enough to get around. Views along the way and at the top are pretty nice, good view of the reservoir. There are also a lot of side trails to explore.

Eric C

Nov 02, 2025

Open

Trail’s open. Fun drive, beautiful views from the top of the mountain. A few pretty muddy spots, a steep and narrow section, one tight passage around a boulder. Some of the shortcuts make the trail not just faster but a lot easier too. Lots to explore out here, we’ll definitely be back

Wayne Hubbard

Oct 29, 2025

Open

Great little trail. Easy enough to take the wife on. Nice views of the Union Valley Reservoir and surrounding hills and valleys at the high points. I highly suggest also taking the Kern Cabin Trail on the side. The north end has better views of the reservoir and nice places to stop for lunch.