Idaho / Shoshone County / Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Little Guard Lookout

Closed — Closed for the 2025 season for extensive restoration including roof replacement and repairs to windows, doors, and siding. Expected to reopen for the 2026 summer season.

About

Little Guard Lookout stands as one of the last remaining fire lookouts used in the Coeur d'Alene River area. The current structure is the third in a series of lookout buildings dating back to 1919, and in October 1990, it became the first Idaho lookout accepted into the National Historic Lookout Register. The two-story lookout measures 14 x 14 feet and features an external catwalk and gabled roof. It sleeps four guests with one single bed and three fold-up cots. The ground floor kitchen is equipped with a propane refrigerator, propane cook stove, table, chairs, and basic cooking utensils. Propane for the stove and refrigerator is provided, but guests must bring their own propane for the upstairs heater and lanterns. An outdoor pit toilet is located within 200 feet of the lookout. At an elevation of 6,031 feet, the lookout offers spectacular views overlooking the North Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River and the Bitterroot Mountains, with views of nearby Downey Peak to the northwest. The lookout provides access to the Shoshone Ridge Trail #81, a scenic day hike with many viewpoints. Wildlife in the area includes mule deer, moose, osprey, and calliope hummingbirds. No water or electricity is available on-site. A mountain spring is located within a half-mile by footpath. Access requires high clearance vehicles and good tires on Forest Road 602.

Directions

From I-90, take Exit #43 (Kingston) and drive 24 miles north on Forest Highway 9 to Prichard junction. Continue on Forest Road 208 for about 5 miles to Forest Road 602 (on the right just past Shoshone Base Camp). Drive about 9 miles to the lookout at the end of the road. High clearance vehicles and good tires are strongly recommended.

Nearby Campgrounds