Calpine Lookout
Tahoe National Forest
Calpine is a forest fire lookout tower that was constructed in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and is one of three remaining examples of the enclosed windmill-style lookout in California. The lookout was actively used every summer until 1975. It is a three-story structure with external stairs. The top room or observation cab is the only rentable space at this time. This is a popular rental facility that is booked almost every night of the year.
Calpine sits at an elevation of 5,980 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of the Tahoe National Forest, approximately 40 miles from Truckee, California. During the summer, renters can drive directly to the base of the tower. In winter, the road is often closed due to snow and ice so access is by snowshoes, skis or snowmobile.
The lookout has propaned-powered appliances but does not have electricity or water.
The interior of the cab measures 14' by 14' and currently has two single twin beds, a dry sink, a table and chairs, three propane lights, a propane heater, a propane stove/oven and a fire finder. A limited assortment of cooking utensils, pots and pans are provided. The facility has its own propane tank.
An accessible vault toilet,a picnic table and fire ring are located outside, at the base of the lookout. Firewood is not provided. When fire restrictions go into effect during the summer, no campfires are permitted.
Visitors should plan on bringing their own bedding, groceries, toilet paper and other personal items. Check-in is after 1:00 pm, check-out is by 12:00 pm.
Need to Know
Approximately 2 weeks before arrival, the Sierraville Ranger District will contact renters to confirm the reservation and give check-in instructions by email. Contact the Sierraville Office at (530) 994-3401 (Monday through Friday) for road and weather conditions or fire restrictions.
Weather conditions and snow may cause the access road to be closed. The gate combination will not be given under these conditions and the only access to the lookout will be on foot.
- The key for the lookout is kept in a lockbox at the lookout; renters will be given the combination to the gate and the lockbox upon check-in.
- Snowshoes, skis or snowmobiles are required to access the lookout when snow is present. Remember you must also pack in all your supplies and water.
- In winter conditions, temperatures may be as low as -21 degrees; cold weather clothing is required.
- No water is available; visitors must bring their own supply.
- Pack out all food and trash.
- Lightning may be a hazard during summer storms.
- Renters need to provide a valid contact phone number on their reservation so the district staff may contact renters with check-in procedures and current conditions before arrival.
- Learn more about Tahoe National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.
Natural Features
The lookout tower sits on a mountain top with views of the Sierra Valley, Haskell Peak to the west, Nevada to the east and Lassen Peak to the far northwest. The lookout is approximately a half hour of travel time from Sand Pond, Sardine Lakes and the Lakes Basin Area. Wildlife is abundant in the area. On a clear night, renters can gaze on an almost endless galaxy of stars and meteorites.
Recreation
Hiking and mountain biking trails are within 15 miles of the lookout. The Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed approximately 20 miles away.
Contact Information
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SIERRAVILLE RANGER DISTRICT 317 SOUTH LINCOLN STREET (HWY 89) PO BOX 95 SIERRAVILLE CA 96126
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: (530) 994-3401
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Sierraville, the lookout is approximately 10 miles north on State Highway 89. Renters will be given a renters packet after check-in with the best access or parking based on current weather conditions. During the winter months, access is by snowshoes, skiis or snowmobiles on a 2 mile trail with a 1000 foot elevation gain.
Available Campsites
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