This is the shortest way to the top: McKittrick Trail #71. Other trail possibilities are possible: see the links on the main page to surf for other possibilities.

(Hint: take their mileages with some reservations. Some are clearly not correct)

Getting There

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Route Description

From the end of the road, follow the McKittrick Trail east. It's an old road bed for abour 3/4 mile as it stays mostly level with some drops and gentle gains. At about a mile you come to a Y-junction: stay right. Now gain steadily, turning at one switchback. Proceed southerly through young aspen to a sign "Blue L.O." with an arrow. You'll see the lookout anyway.

The old trail to the lookout is cluttered with deadfall. Instead, find some open areas and use paths and bash your way through a small section of sticker brush to gain the flattish summit. The lookout was decommissioned years ago. The stairs leading up are not fastened securely. We did not dare climb it.

A register is found in a pile of rocks near the NE leg of the tower. There is a USGS witness marker (painted yellow), but the BM is long gone.

The views are partially obstructed by trees but you can hike down the sides a bit for some great southerly views.

Essential Gear

Long pants. This is wolf and bear country. We had bear spray just in case (we saw a black bear two days earlier). They likely won't bother you, but a wolf might be interested in your dog, so keep your pet leashed and under your control, so that he doesn't run off then come running back to you with some new friends chasing him.

External Links

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