Sitting high at 8,537 feet, Butler Peak Fire Lookout is the highest tower in the mountaintop. Offering unobstructed 360 degree views, Butler Peak has some of the most amazing views of San Gorgonio Peak, Big Bear Valley, Lake Arrowhead, Apple Valley and parts of the Inland Empire.
Up until July 2016, the road (2N13C) leading to the tower was closed due a fire that scorched much of the area in 2007. During winter, when snow begins to fall, roads 2N13 and 2N13C that lead to the tower are closed and remain closed until spring.
The tower is typically opened daily (except in winter) and based on volunteer availability. When the tower is staffed, the hours are 8:00am to 5pm. Its always best to call the Big Bear Discovery Center to get updated road conditions and tower information.
Getting There: From North Shore Drive in Fawnskin, you’ll turn out on Rim of the World Drive. In 1/2 a mile the paved road turns into 3N14, a dirt road. Continue up the road and make a left onto 2N13. Continue driving up 2N13 passing a group campsite on the right, once you reach 2N13C, make a left. Follow this road to the tower. It’s 6 miles one way.
From the parking area, its a 1/8 mile steep, rocky and very uneven hike up to the tower. There are some handrails in place as you get closer to the tower. There is parking for about 6-7 vehicles. The volunteers are very nice and knowledgeable. They will give you information about the tower and how to spot forest fires. Please be courteous as they are actively looking for fires and cannot focus all of their attention on your needs.
This view shows the road you traveled to get here.
