Idaho / Latah County / Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests

Bald Mountain Lookout

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically open early July through early October. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Bald Mountain Lookout offers a unique overnight experience in a historic fire lookout that served the Forest Service from 1956 until 1984. Perched 50 feet above the ground at 5,334 feet elevation on one of the highest peaks in the Hoodoo Mountain Range, this rustic retreat provides unforgettable panoramic views of the golden rolling hills of the Palouse to the south and St. Maries to the north. The heavily forested surrounding landscape features a diverse mix of larch, red cedar, hemlock, western white pine, Douglas fir, and Engelmann spruce. The lookout cabin accommodates up to four people with a futon that folds into a twin bed, two cots, a table with four chairs, and basic cookware and utensils. Propane appliances include a cooking stove and heater for comfort during cool mountain evenings. An exterior catwalk surrounds the cabin, providing an ideal vantage point for watching sunrises and sunsets, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. Eagles, bear, moose, elk, and deer are frequently spotted in the area. Access to Strychnine Ridge Trail 319 begins just southwest of the lookout, offering hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian opportunities. The lookout is located just off Highway 6, the scenic White Pine Scenic Byway. High clearance vehicles are required to reach the lookout via rough forest roads; trailers are not recommended.

Directions

From Potlatch, travel north on Highway 6 (White Pine Scenic Byway) for 22 miles. Turn right on Forest Road 377, Palouse Divide Road. This single lane dirt road is rarely graded and slippery when wet. Follow FR 377 for approximately 8 miles to the junction with FR 377A. Turn on FR 377A and climb for 1 mile to Bald Mountain Lookout. The last mile is rough with many water bars. High clearance vehicle required; trailers not recommended.

Nearby Campgrounds