Shorty Peak Lookout

About

Shorty Peak Lookout is a historic fire lookout cabin perched atop Shorty Peak in the Lower Kootenai River Area of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Once used to patrol for forest fires, the structure was refurbished in 2005 and now provides overnight guests with exceptional 360-degree panoramic views of Kootenai Valley, the U.S. and Canadian Selkirks, Smith Creek and Cow Creek drainage areas, Red Top Mountain, and Lone Tree Peak. The 15x15 ft cabin features modern hardwood floors and accommodates two guests with twin beds and pads. Interior furnishings include two chairs, two tables, a historic fire finder, and a district map. There is no electricity or potable water; guests must pack in all water, food, bedding, and supplies. A vault toilet is located within 100 yards of the cabin. Access requires a moderate-to-steep 2.5-mile hike with 1,300 feet of elevation gain from the trailhead. The trail is also open to horseback riding, though no corrals or hitching racks are provided. Wildlife in the area includes elk, deer, and both black and grizzly bears. Clear nights offer prime stargazing opportunities.

Directions

From the Bonners Ferry Ranger Station: Take Highway 95 north for 17 miles. Turn left onto Highway 1 and head north for 2 miles. Turn left onto Copeland Road and head west for 4 miles. Stay right at the T junction and continue north on Westside Road for 9 miles. Stay to the left around the switchback onto Forest Road 281, then drive west for 8 miles. Turn right on Road 655 and drive west 1.5 miles. Stay right again at the switchback, heading east 1 mile on Rd 282. Go straight at the next junction and continue northeast on Road 282 for 4 miles. Park at the trailhead on top of the saddle before the locked gate. Hike 2.5 miles up the trail to the west to reach the lookout.