Devil's Head Lookout

Devil's Head Lookout is a fire lookout tower standing on a rocky granite peak in Pike National Forest at high elevation. The structure sits where observers can see across a wide range of forested mountains and valleys in all directions.

An observation post was established at this location in 1919 to monitor forest conditions, and the current structure dates from the middle of the 20th century. The tower earned recognition on the National Register of Historic Places during the 1990s.

Helen Dowe made history at this location in 1919 by becoming the second female fire lookout in the United States Forest Service.

The hike to the tower is moderate and suitable for visitors in reasonable physical condition with proper gear and footwear. Weather can change quickly at this elevation, so plan your visit during daylight hours and bring water, as shade is scarce along the route.

Bill Ellis, the current tower operator, has monitored fires from this location for over 30 years while raising six children in a cabin below.

Location: Douglas County

Inception: 1951

Website: https://fs.usda.gov/recarea/psicc/recarea/?recid=78558

GPS coordinates: 39.26035,-105.10127

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:56