Original structure

Dave Bula

Original Structure, 1943


Current structure

Mike Henry

Current Structure

Devils Head Lookout

Pike National Forest

Elevation: 9708

Status: Staffed

Year Built: 1912, reconstructed 1951

Structure Type: 1912: non-standard, 1951: L4

Topographic Map

Devils Head Lookout is probably the best-known lookout in Colorado. The L4 cab is perched high on rock outcrop, with a few flights of stairs leading to the cab. The lookout used to be accessible only by ladder. Living quarters are below the outcrop. This lookout was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.

Getting there: From Sedalia along US 85 south of Denver, take CO 67 west for 12 miles to Rampart Ridge Road. The intersection is well marked. Take Rampart Range Road 11 miles to the turnout for Devils Head Lookout and campground. Follow the signs and veer right to the tower trailhead. The hike is 1.4 miles and requires 960 feet of elevation gain.

Pike National Forest Devil's Head Campground information.

Douglas County Historic Preservation page for Devil's Head Lookout.

National Historic Lookout Register entry for Devil's Head.

Colorado Springs Gazette story of August 21, 2009 about Bill Ellis, long-time Devils Head lookout.

Denver Post story of July 11, 2011 about the Ellises and Devils Head.

1914

Joshua Nigro

1914