Overview Sardine Peak is a forest fire lookout tower that was constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It is a three story enclosed tower with external stairs. Presently the top room or observation cab is the only rentable space. Sardine sits at an elevation of 8,138 feet in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of Tahoe National Forest, approximately 20 miles from Truckee, California. The lookout does not have electricity, water or garbage service. It does have a propane tank to operate propane-powered appliances. Recreation Hiking, mountain biking and off road vehicle use are popular around this lookout. Stampede and Boca Reservoirs are nearby for fishing, boating and swimming. Facilities The interior of the cab is 14 feet long and 14 feet wide and contains two twin beds, a dry sink, a table and four chairs, two propane lights, a propane cast iron heat stove and a propane stove/oven for cooking. A limited assortment of cooking utensils, pots and pans are provided. There is an accessible vault toilet, a picnic table and fire ring are located outside below the lookout. Firewood is not provided.
Source: rec_gov · last verified 2026-05-19