Buck Rock Lookout

Was not open? Nice walk and make sure to call ahead to see if open? Road from Big Meadows is dirt and maintained for most vehicles made it with a Toyota Corolla in dry summer conditions of the road.

As other reviews have mentioned, the last 2.5 miles is unpaved and rough so make sure you have some clearance - a crossover SUV or more would be perfect. The views were worth it even though the last part of the tower ascent was closed when we were there late afternoon on a Friday.

The road to get here was paved until the last 2.5 miles. It was pretty rough that last little bit. I did it in a BMW X-7 fully raised with zero issues. I also saw a couple of minivans do it. You would want plenty of clearance. Anyway, assuming you have the proper equipment, well worth your stop. Best views in the area in my opinion.

Perched atop a rocky point, this is a really stunning fire tower. We visited in early April and had a blast hiking through the Sequoia National Forest with my dog. The trail is only about 4.5-5mipes from the highway and the views are terrific. We visited on a clear day and could see Cloud's Rest up north at Yosemite.

I have been here many times, and every time was great except the first (but that was in 2012 and was due to the current government problems). There are over 150 steps to the top so definitely work on that Stairmaster before you go :) i would recommend this hike for kids no younger than 10 and who are willing to climb the stairs themselves.

Buck Rock Lookout tower is a bit of a treck and a little tricky to find but well worth the effort. You can go year round but (to the best of my knowledge) the tower is only open during fire season. The gentleman we spoke with who was on Fire watch told us some of the history of the tower and that his elders had helped to build it just over 100 years ago. An amazing place to check out. We recommend it.

Great hike at the end of a dirt road. I had to park my Toyota Corolla part way up the road, but the walk prior to the hike was relaxing.