Only three fire lookouts are still standing in Nevada, and Ella Mountain is the only remaining staffed structure. One of a handful of lookouts in the U.S. operated by the BLM, it lies in the Clover Mountains south of Caliente, NV 80 miles north of Las Vegas near the Utah border. Ella Mountain Lookout was built in 1964 and is typically manned from May to October.
Our Yamaha RMAX 4 at the Train Depot in Caliente, NV
Ella Mountain is an excellent destination from the town of Caliente, Nevada. The Silver State Trail system is nearby, but this is not part of that trail. We stopped by on a recent tour with UTV Offroad Adventures.
Reaching Ella Mountain is an adventure in itself. The lookout sits deep within the Spring Mountains, accessible by rugged forest roads that are best suited for high-clearance vehicles—making it a perfect destination for UTV enthusiasts looking for a scenic and historic ride.
The surrounding terrain offers a mix of alpine forest, rocky climbs, and sweeping desert views, creating a dramatic contrast that defines southern Nevada riding.
The Ella Mountain Fire Lookout isn’t just a relic—it’s a working piece of Nevada’s wildfire defense system. While many lookout towers across the West have been decommissioned or automated, this one continues to prove the value of human observation in rugged, remote terrain.
For those who make the journey, Ella Mountain offers more than just incredible views—it provides a glimpse into a fading tradition that still plays a vital role in protecting the landscapes we ride and explore.
Details:
- Starting Point: Caliente, NV Distance: 14 miles (one way)
- Elevation: 7,431 ft (2,265 m)
- Coordinates: 37.45936, -114.46738
- Vehicle: Yamaha Wolverine RMAX 4 Limited
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