California / Shasta County / Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Girard Ridge Lookout

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates May 15 through September 15, weather permitting. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Girard Ridge Lookout was constructed in 1931 and served as an active fire detection facility for the Forest Service until 1981. It is one of the few remaining historic lookouts on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and reportedly the oldest lookout of its particular design remaining in California. The structure was carefully restored to its original character in 1997, preserving an important piece of forest history. Located at an elevation of 4,809 feet above the Sacramento River Canyon, the lookout offers spectacular panoramic views. Mount Shasta dominates the northern horizon, the distinctive gray spires of Castle Crags frame nearly the entire western view, and the distant silhouette of Lassen Peak can be seen to the southeast. The lookout is surrounded by northern California mixed conifer forest, home to black bears and other wildlife. While the accommodations are primitive, visitors are rewarded with an unforgettable experience staying in a piece of living history. The lookout serves as a base for exploring the surrounding area, with opportunities for hiking, hunting, and fishing. Hikers can walk north on the forest road for 3 miles to access the Pacific Crest Trail. The rough 7.5-mile access road adds to the remote, backcountry feel of this unique destination.

Directions

From I-5, take Exit 726 (Soda Creek). Head east toward the Sacramento River, cross the bridge, and veer right. Turn right on Riverside Road (narrow paved road) and follow to the intersection with Girard Ridge Road (Forest Service Road 38N23). Turn left uphill. The road changes from pavement to dirt at 1.9 miles. Pass microwave towers, then at approximately 6.5 miles from I-5, turn left on Forest Service Road 39N13. Travel 0.6 miles and turn left again at the sign for Girard Ridge Lookout. Open the green Forest Service gate and continue 0.5 miles to the lookout. The final portion of the road is very rough.

Nearby Campgrounds