Clear Lake Cabin Lookout
Open — Open for winter rentals November 1 through May 31. Currently accessible only by ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile via a 3.5-mile trek from Skyline Sno-Park. Maximum stay is seven consecutive nights. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order.
Salmon River Trails CLOSED
A landslide across Salmon River Rd. has blocked access to all Salmon River Trails off the road. Additionally, trails are likely blocked up downed trees and limbs from the recent storms.Mt. Hood trails have not been evaluated since the recent heavy rain and wind. Hazards are likely.
Hazards from Winter Storms
Heavy rains and strong winds have created many hazards across Mt. Hood National Forest and surrounding areas. December storms have resulted in downed trees on Forest Roads in addition to localized flooding, landslides, and rockfall.
Sno-park Permits required Nov. 1 to Apr. 30
Sno-Park Permits are required to park in designated sno-parks from November 1 through April 30. Sno-Park Permits are managed by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT).
Eagle Creek Fire Area Closures - Forest Order
In 2017, the Eagle Creek Fire caused extensive damage to surrounding areas in Columbia River Gorge and parts of Mt. Hood National Forest. Some trails are closed to the public in both the Gorge and Hood River Ranger District, pursuant to 16 USC § 551 and 36 CFR 261.50 (a) and (b).
Health and Safety Closure Due to Roadside Danger Trees - Forest Order
The following acts are prohibited upon the National Forest System Roads described below. Forest Order #06-06-05-25-03 renews Order 06- 06-06-00-23-01, and will be effective June 26, 2025, through June 26, 2026.PROHIBITIONS:
Crane Creek bridge closed on the Barlow Road
The Crane Creek bridge on the Barlow Road (Forest Road 3530) is collapsed and closed. The Barlow Road is open, but it can't be driven from end to end.
About
Clear Lake Cabin Lookout is perched on the southern slope of Mt. Hood near the northwest corner of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, offering winter sports enthusiasts a remote mountain experience with unparalleled views. The 40-foot tower, built in 1962 to replace the original 1932 structure, represents the R-6 Flat Top design, the last generation of fire lookouts in the Pacific Northwest. The lookout remains in active use for fire spotting during summer months. The 14x14 foot cabin is accessed via a wooden catwalk surrounding the tower and features basic amenities including a small single bed, wood stove for heat, propane cook stove, table and chair, and solar lighting. An outhouse is located nearby, along with a shed stocked with firewood. From the catwalk, visitors enjoy sweeping panoramas of Mt. Hood to the north, Mt. Jefferson to the south, and views over Clear Lake and Timothy Lake. From December 1 through April 30, and during winter driving conditions that can occur in early fall through late spring, the lookout is accessible only by skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling 3.5 miles one-way from Skyline Sno-Park on Highway 26. The moderate route climbs 900 feet in elevation and takes three to four hours to complete. The surrounding area provides excellent cross-country skiing, snowshoeing trails, and access to frozen mountain lakes. Visitors must be experienced in backcountry travel and prepared for extreme winter weather conditions.
Directions
From Highway 26, 12 miles south of Government Camp, turn at the junction with Forest Service Road 42 at Skyline Sno-Park. During winter access period (December 1 - April 30), park at the Sno-Park and ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile 3.5 miles via Forest Service Road 42 to Road 240 spur, then continue to the lookout. Elevation gain is 900 feet. An ODOT Sno-Park permit is required for parking.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $85 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (541) 467-2291 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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