Lookout Tower & Views-USFS Rd #651A
Total Miles
1.2
Elevation
2,491.06 ft
Duration
--
Technical Rating
Best Time
Spring, Summer, Fall
Trail Overview
The Fork for Eight Mile Mesa A (#651A) is a short road to the right off of the main Eight Mile Mesa Road (#651). It leads you to the historic fire lookout tower site with views to the North towards Pagosa Springs and the San Juan mountains. The fire lookout tower is closed to the public, but the sweeping view from its base is worth the short drive up. There was one disturbed primitive campsite off to one side of the clearing. There is some cellular service from this spot depending upon the provider.
Photos of Lookout Tower & Views-USFS Rd #651A
Difficulty
This dirt road has a few deep ruts to drive around. One vehicle wide, it will get muddy with rain.
History
A fire tower was originally built here by the CCC in 1941 with a 20-foot wood frame. In 1963 they replaced that tower with this current 30-foot steel tower. If you look around the base you can still find the footings for the 1941 tower. The current tower is closed to the public and only put in service when needed. While the site is considered historic this newer tower is not old enough to be classified yet as such. Please be respectful of this historic site with its current tower so as to keep this trail open to the public.
Status Reports
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