Hike to the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout

After parking the car in a lot at the top of the ridge, we headed down the dirt road to meet up with the trailhead. After turning onto the trailhead, we began the hike up. The first half mile or so is uphill, with trees providing shade, and then it flattens out for probably 300 yards as we hiked along the ridge line. It then begins the moderately steep hike to the lookout. Shortly after this, we reached a large clearing which serves as a parking lot, and the trail all but disappears. After a few minutes of looking around, a couple coming down the trail advised us to stay to the left and keep heading up the mountain till we find the trail, we did and were successful in locating it. Before arriving at the lookout, we ascended a series of 6 switch-backs, the last 3 being exposed to the sun. As we approached the lookout, we noted the three levels of stairs that we needed to climb in order to get to it. If you are afraid of heights or get queasy being high up, it might not be the best idea to proceed past this point. Going up was easy, at the top we ate sandwiches, bought in Downieville, and took pictures. Getting down was a little more difficult for a few of our group. The stairs are very steep, so take your time. It was a bit busy, so I would suggest going early on in the morning. It was an amazing hike, one I'll be doing again!