The hike up to this lookout tower through the San Jacinto Wilderness offers some of the most beautiful vistas in Southern California, including the Salton Sea to the southeast. The origin of Tahquitz's name is derived from the Cahuilla god Tahquish, who believe the peak to be the god's home. At an elevation of 8,846 feet, this lookout is the highest within the San Bernardino National Forest, and the only one located within a designated Wilderness area. It is also the forest’s longest continuously operated station, serving some 77 years. Up here, all work must be done with regular hand tools as no motorized equipment is allowed in wilderness areas.