Pine Mountain Lookout

From Upper Lake:

Proceed north on M1/Elk Mountain Road past the Upper Lake Ranger Station. After several miles, as indicated by the sign, turn left onto 18N05.

Soon after leaving M1/Elk Mountain Road, you will come to a three-way intersection. Only the center road (up the hill) and the right-hand road will get you to the Lookout. The right-hand road is in better shape. If you do not have 4-wheel-drive and high clearance, the center road is not recommended.

After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along. 

From Potter Valley:

• Travel on M8 (south side of Eel River) is not recommended as the PG&E gates are unpredictably opened and closed, and progress on 18N05 from M8 could be blocked by trees.

Turn right on Eel River Road (North County Road 240B) and drive 4 mi to the Y intersection. Take the right hand fork of the Y, signed as Cutoff Road, and travel down the hill for about a half-mile. At the bottom of the hill proceed north on County Road 240B and cross the bridge to the north side of Eel River. 

Turn right towards Lake Pillsbury and proceed for 14 mi to the junction with M1 at the Soda Creek Store. 

Turn right (south) onto M1. At the junction of M1 and M8, proceed to the left (uphill, following the sign for Upper Lake) to stay on M1. 

After approx 6 mi, as indicated by the sign, turn right onto 18N05. After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along.