Hershberger Mountain Fire Lookout [Suggest Edits]

Description

The Hershberger Mountain fire lookout is a D-6 cupola-type structure that was built in 1925, served as an aircraft warning station during WW2, was refurbished in the 1980s and 2012, and still sees occasional use by the Forest Service. From it, you have expansive views of the Upper Rogue River, the Crater Lake rim, Mount Thielsen, Mount Bailey, Mount McLoughlin, and, on a good day, distant Mount Shasta. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2000.

On the Road: From Union Creek, Oregon, go north on Highway 62 and then continue straight on Highway 230 for about a mile. Turn left on to Forest Road 6510 and continue for six miles to a junction with Forest Road 6515. Veer right on to Forest Road 6515 for about nine miles to a right turn on to Road 530. It's 2.3 miles to the end of the road and a short run to the lookout. Forest Road 530 gets relatively little use and may be rough and potholed. It's best navigated with a high clearance vehicle. If it looks too rugged for whatever you're driving, stop and run.

This road trip can test your ability to navigate forest roads. It's a good idea to carry one of the Forest Service maps for the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. They can be obtained from at the High Cascades Ranger District Office, 47201 Highway 62, Prospect, Oregon.

Gem Type: Historic Site