Pearsoll Peak Lookout

About

Pearsoll Peak Lookout is an historic 1954 fire lookout situated on the edge of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. The lookout offers panoramic views and serves as a destination for hikers, backpackers, and those interested in scenery viewing and wildlife observation. The site is currently undergoing restoration efforts and is not available for overnight stays. It operates as a day-use area only, open sunrise to sunset. A vault toilet is available, but there is no potable water and visitors must pack out all trash. No fees are required. Access requires a high-clearance vehicle to reach Chetco Pass via Forest Service Road 087 from the Illinois River crossing. The seasonal gate on FS Road 087 is only open from June 1 through September 30. From Chetco Pass, it is a 2.7-mile hike to the lookout via FSR 1124 and Trail 1125, as motor vehicles are prohibited on the trail.

Directions

From Grants Pass, take the Redwood Highway (Hwy 199) to Selma. In Selma, turn right at the yellow blinking light onto the Illinois River Road. Follow it about 11 miles to FS Road 087, which descends steeply to a low-water bridge crossing the Illinois River. Continue on FS Road 087 for approximately 4.5 miles to Chetco Pass (high-clearance vehicle required; gate open June 1-Sept 30 only). From Chetco Pass, hike 2.7 miles on FSR 1124 and Trail 1125 to the lookout.