The view from Sierra Buttes Lookout on the Tahoe National Forest is surpassed only by the stunning location. The National Geographic Magazine described it as a “spectacular location that has to be seen to be believed.” The site was first used for fire detection in 1908. In 1916 a 12’x12’ cabin was built. Then in 1933 a 9’x9’ cab was constructed on a 6’ base. The current CL-100 metal 14’x14’ live-in cab went into service in 1963. It is reached by a series of stairs with 176 steps.