Tikaboo Peak: The Best Place to Legally See Area 51

If you’ve ever dreamed of getting a glimpse of the world’s most mysterious military base—Area 51—but don’t feel like getting arrested (or worse), there’s one place that offers the ultimate legal view: Tikaboo Peak.

Located deep in the Nevada desert, Tikaboo Peak is the last remaining public vantage point where you can see the restricted base with your own eyes. No red tape. No camo-clad guards. Just you, the mountain, and one of the most legendary locations on the planet.

So What Is Tikaboo Peak?

Tikaboo Peak sits about 26 miles east of Area 51 and stands roughly 7,900 feet above sea level. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the Groom Lake facility—yes, the actual Area 51. On a clear day, you can spot hangars, buildings, runways, and sometimes even unusual activity on the base (bring binoculars or a good telephoto lens).

It’s the closest legal viewpoint since the U.S. government shut down access to other nearby vantage points like Freedom Ridge and White Sides in the mid-1990s due to increasing interest from the public. Tikaboo, however, remains just outside the restricted zone, making it a goldmine for UFO enthusiasts, conspiracy hunters, and adventure campers alike.

The Journey Is Half the Experience

Getting to Tikaboo Peak isn’t just a casual walk in the park—it’s a full-on adventure. The trailhead is located several hours north of Las Vegas, followed by rough dirt roads that require a high-clearance vehicle (ideally 4WD). From there, it’s a 1.2-mile hike with over 1,000 feet of elevation gain to the summit.

It’s not for the faint of heart—but that’s what makes it so rewarding.

Many visitors choose to camp overnight near the peak, timing their hike to reach the summit at sunset or early in the morning for epic golden-hour views. The night sky is insanely clear out there, so bring your green laser pointer (like The UFO Pointer) and enjoy some of the best stargazing on Earth—with Area 51 twinkling in the distance.

Tips for Your Tikaboo Trek:

• Bring a good camera or binoculars – The base is visible, but it’s 26 miles away.

• Camp out! – The Milky Way over the Nevada desert is pure magic.

• Pack for the elements – The desert can be brutally hot during the day and freezing at night.

• Know the route – GPS, offline maps, and some prior research are a must.

• Respect the boundaries – Do not attempt to enter restricted zones. Tikaboo is all about doing it legally and safely.

• Don't forget your UFO Pointer!
  

Why Tikaboo Peak Matters

There’s something incredible about standing on a remote mountaintop, staring across the desert at a place shrouded in secrecy and legend. Tikaboo Peak represents freedom, curiosity, and the human drive to explore the unknown—all without crossing any legal lines.

Want to say you’ve seen Area 51 with your own eyes?

Tikaboo Peak is the place to do it.