Private Tour Of The East Peak Fire Lookout

Join a very limited group on a 1 mile roundtrip hike from the East Peak Visitor Center up to and inside the Gardner Fire lookout.

A specially trained fire lookout volunteer will meet the group and explain how the fire lookout operates and the role it plays in early detection of fires. Weather permitting, the views will be amazing!

Must be able to hike up/down a moderately steep trail and climb the ladder inside the Lookout.

Don't miss this opportunity to be inside the lookout!

The war veterans of CCC Company 1920V built the Gardner lookout between 1934 and 1936. In addition to hauling the materials for this sturdy stone structure up the mountain by hand and by cable system, the CCC members also built a water system, ran electric, and installed phone lines. According to a history of the Marin County Fire Department, "equipped with electricity, hot and cold running water, and telephone, this lookout was acclaimed The Deluxe Lookout Station of California".

Your host, Stephanie, a Marin County Fire Department-trained Fire Lookout, has a deep appreciation for the natural and cultural history of Mount Tamalpais. Her love of the land inspired her to become a Lookout Volunteer, where she helps safeguard the county through early fire detection.

GENERAL THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT SCIENCE QUEST EVENTS

CAPACITY: Only RSVP if you are able to attend. Most events have limited capacity - No Shows will likely prevent someone else from attending.

PARKING: We strongly recommend carpooling and arriving at least 30 minutes early to locate parking. Pantoll, Bootjack, and East Peak require a $8 fee - bring exact change! You can also pay through the Yodel app (https://www.yodelpass.com) . The Quarry Parking lot (just past Mountain Theater towards East Peak) is an option if Rock Spring Parking lot is full. Pantoll parking is very limited – BootJack sometimes will have open spots. Bus service schedule is available at https://marintransit.org/routes/61.

FAMILIES: Hikes are suitable for families with children who are interested in nature and are comfortable hiking 2-4 miles. "Kid Friendly" events have no age limit.

DURATION: Each timed event is scheduled to last no more than 2 hours (except Astronomy).

CANCELLATIONS: Rain, red flag days, winds above 30 mph, and unforeseen circumstances will cancel. Check the Friends of Mt Tam Facebook for updates: https://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfMtTam

WATER: Bring your own water. Most hikes do not pass by public drinking water sources.

CLOTHES: Weather on Mt Tam can be very unpredictable and can change quickly. Dressing in layers is recommended.

STURDY BOOTS: Trails are uneven, rocky and can be very steep in places. Sandals, sneakers, and running shoes are not recommended for hikes.

EQUIPMENT: Many events are enhanced with Binoculars (Birding, East Peak Fire Lookout, etc.). Lichen hike recommends bringing a magnifying glass.For presentations at Pantoll, bring a folding chair.

Dogs(except for service animals) are not allowed

Public Restrooms: Available at East Peak, Rock Spring, Bootjack, Mountain Home, and Pantoll.