Hike Warren Peak Fire Lookout at Black Hills National Forest

Rating	★★★★★(5/5)
Overall Difficulty	Easy
Navigation Difficulty	Easy
Distance	0 miles roundtrip
Time	15 minutes
Terrain	Hilly
Best Seasons	All
Family Friendly	Yes
Dog Friendly	Yes
Accessible	No

Highlights

Panoramic views of the Black Hills
Vistas as far as the Bighorn Mountains on a clear day

Hike Summary

While Warren Peak isn't necessarily a hiking destination, it is a must stop for anyone visiting the Wyoming section of the Black Hills National Forest near Sundance. You can drive to the top of the peak where you'll find the fire tower and a couple interpretive signs about the tower's history. While access to the very top of the tower is locked, you can still climb the stairs almost to the top for a less obstructed vantage point. Nothing around you is at a higher elevation, so the views are phenomenal -- absolutely stunning at sunset as shown in the pictures below.

Sunsets are particularly amazing on top of Warren Peak

Autumn oranges and yellows in the view to the east

The view west -- on a clear day you can see as far as the Bighorn Mountains

So much beauty! Definitely stop to enjoy the view if you're in the area -- it's only about a half hour driving detour (roundtrip) if you're traveling between Devil's Tower and the Black Hills of South Dakota. And best of all, it's absolutely free. Let me know what you think in the comments section below, and be sure to use #nocoastbestcoast on Twitter and Instagram!

Important Information

I'm sure you'll noticed that you gain quite a bit of elevation on the drive here, but it's still worth noting that it will be significantly cooler and windier at the top of this treeless high peak (and it's even windier when you ascend the tower). You can definitely drive here in the three warm seasons, but winter access may or may not be possible depending on conditions. If conditions are terrible, a gate near the Reuter Trailhead will block further travel on the main road. Also, while the main road may be plowed, you may have to hike the short distance from the main road up the most likely unplowed dirt road to the tower.

Directions

From Sundance, head west on Interstate 90 and exit at U.S. Highway 14. Turn right, then turn right on Sundance-Warren Peak Road (County Road 208). Keep going straight as the road winds up and around the mountains and signs will let you know how many miles remain. Turn right on the dirt road signed for Warren Peak, then park at the base of the tower.

Google Maps Directions