Mount Tom: Driving the Lookout Road near Bishop
Mount Tom is a high-altitude fire observation point at an elevation of 2,751m (9,026ft) above sea level, located in Fresno County, California. Situated within the Sierra National Forest, the summit features a historic fire lookout tower built by the CCC in 1934, which remains one of the prominent landmarks in the region.
The road to the summit, known as Mount Tom Lookout Road, is a rough and rocky dirt access track. Due to the terrain's nature, which includes loose stones and uneven sections, a high-clearance vehicle with 4-wheel drive is required to reach the top safely. The route is typically impassable from October to June due to heavy snow accumulation at this altitude.
| Road facts: Mount Tom Lookout Road | |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 2,751m (9,026ft) |
| Location | Sierra National Forest (Near Bishop, CA) |
| Length | 4.2 km (2.6 miles) |
| Elevation Gain | 372 m |
| Average Gradient | 8.85% |
How is the drive to Mount Tom Lookout?
The ascent begins at the Half Corral Trail. From this point, the road is 4.2 km long with an elevation gain of 372 meters. The average gradient is 8.85%, indicating a steady and steep climb. The surface is a mix of dirt and rocks, and the road is narrow, making it difficult for two vehicles to pass in most sections. Drivers should remain alert for oncoming traffic and use turnouts where available.
What are the hazards on the Mount Tom Lookout Road?
The primary hazards on this track are the rocky surface and the steep, unprotected drop-offs. The road can be dusty during the summer, affecting visibility. Because it is a dead-end access road to a fire lookout, there are no services or facilities along the route. It is essential to check the local weather forecast before departing, as thunderstorms are common in the Sierra Nevada and the summit is highly exposed to lightning.
Is the Mount Tom fire lookout open?
The fire lookout at the summit is an active facility during the fire season and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. While the tower itself may be closed to the public or only accessible when staffed, the area around the summit offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding Sierra National Forest. Due to the high elevation, the road remains closed throughout the winter months until the snow melts, usually in late June or early July.
Pic&video: Brent Westrick