Exploration Trail (Keller Peak)
Check status before you go. The Exploration Trail climbs about 4.5 miles one-way (then 1.5 miles of road) to Keller Peak's historic fire lookout — roughly 12 miles round-trip with 2,000+ ft of gain if you go to the summit. Fire-related closures have affected this area in 2026 — confirm on the San Bernardino NF alerts page before driving out.
The facts
- Difficulty
- Moderate–hard (distance)
- Distance
- ~9 miles RT (trail only) / ~12 miles RT (to the lookout)
- Elevation gain
- ~2,000 ft to the summit
- Time needed
- 5–6.5 hours to the lookout and back
- Pass required
- Adventure Pass ($5/day, $30/yr) or Interagency pass
- Parking
- Small trailhead lot off Hwy 18 near Deer Lick Fire Station; no restrooms or water
- Dogs
- Yes, on leash
- Restrooms
- No
- Cell coverage
- Intermittent; good on the upper ridges
- Best season
- Late spring–fall (when open); snow lingers up high
Getting there
Get directions →Current status — read first
As of mid-2026, hiking apps and Forest Service alerts have flagged closures in the Keller Peak area tied to fire activity and fire risk. Closures here change with conditions and season. Before committing to the drive, check the San Bernardino National Forest alerts page or call the Mountaintop Ranger District. This page will be updated as status changes.
The hike (when open)
Built as a showcase 'accessible backcountry' trail, the Exploration Trail switchbacks up from its Highway 18 trailhead near the Deer Lick Fire Station through pine and boulder fields for about 4.5 miles to Keller Peak Road; from there it's another 1.5 miles up the paved road to the Keller Peak Fire Lookout (7,882 ft), one of the last staffed lookouts in Southern California — volunteers often welcome visitors up the stairs when it's open. Views run from the San Gorgonio wilderness to the high desert.
Many hikers skip the summit and turn around at the road for a ~9-mile forest day. There's no water anywhere on the route and the trailhead lot is small and primitive — Adventure Pass on the dash, and go early in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Exploration Trail open right now?
It has been affected by fire-related closures in 2026. Check the San Bernardino National Forest alerts page or call the Mountaintop Ranger District before going — conditions change through the season.
How long is the Exploration Trail?
About 4.5 miles one-way to Keller Peak Road with steady climbing. Continuing up the road to the fire lookout makes it roughly 12 miles round-trip with over 2,000 feet of total gain — a 5–6.5 hour day for most hikers.
Can you drive to Keller Peak instead?
Yes — Keller Peak Road is paved to the lookout and open seasonally. Driving up and just visiting the lookout is a legitimate shortcut if you want the view without the 12 miles.
Facts on this page last verified July 17, 2026. Fees, hours, and access rules change seasonally — confirm with the official source before a long drive.