California / Siskiyou County / Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout

Closed — Closed for the season. The lookout typically operates from mid-May through mid-September, with exact dates subject to change based on weather and snow conditions. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout was constructed in the 1920s and served as an active Forest Service fire lookout until 1978. It is one of the few remaining historic lookouts in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and is eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The lookout is still occasionally used by the Forest Service during times of extreme fire danger. Situated at 7,309 feet on a cinder cone along the rim of Medicine Lake Highland's caldera, the lookout provides breathtaking panoramic views of Northern California's volcanic landscape. Visitors can see Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen, southern Oregon's Mt. McLoughlin, the Tulelake Basin to the north, the Fall River Valley to the east, and the Medicine Lake Highlands to the south. The 14x14 wooden cabin sits on the ground with a surrounding wooden deck and is equipped with a wood stove, two cots, dining table, storage cabinets, and basic cleaning supplies. Outside amenities include a barbecue pit and picnic table. The lookout accommodates up to four people and is accessible by car, though the final 4 miles are on unpaved roads unsuitable for RVs or vehicles with trailers. Visitors must bring all water, food, bedding, firewood, and supplies as the facility has no electricity, running water, or cooking facilities. The site is ideal for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and photography. Nearby Medicine Lake offers additional recreation opportunities including swimming, boating, and hiking. Renters must obtain a lock combination from the McCloud District Office prior to arrival, and reservations are required through Recreation.gov.

Directions

From McCloud, travel east on Highway 89 for 16 miles to Road 15 (Harris Springs Road). Turn left and travel on paved road for 4.5 miles to Road 49 (Powder Hill Road). Travel approximately 28 miles northeast to the Medicine Lake area, then follow the road along the north side of Medicine Lake for approximately 4 miles to Little Mt. Hoffman. The last 4 miles are unpaved and not recommended for RVs or vehicles pulling trailers.

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