Idaho / Shoshone County / Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Surveyors Lookout

Closed — Closed for Calendar Year 2025 due to critical repairs needed for public safety. Typically operates seasonally when roads are accessible, approximately July through September.

About

Surveyors Lookout offers a unique overnight experience in a working fire lookout perched 30 feet above Surveyors Ridge at 6,000 feet elevation in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. Listed on the National Historic Lookout Register, the current treated timber structure was built in 1964 to replace the original pole lookout constructed in 1931 as part of a network used to spot fires in the Upper St. Joe Country. The tower provides phenomenal 360-degree views of Snow Peak, Middle Sister, and Mallard Peak across the spectacular Mallard-Larkins Pioneer Area. The lookout accommodates up to four guests and includes a propane cook stove, heater, and lights, plus a twin bed and two extra mattresses. A small refrigerator is available but unreliable; bringing a cooler is recommended. Cooking pots and utensils are provided. No drinking water is available on-site; guests must bring their own or collect from a spring 1.4 miles down the access road (must be treated before consuming). The lookout is not insulated, so warm clothes and blankets are essential even with the heater. The location provides excellent access to hiking and exploration in the Mallard-Larkins Pioneer Area, with trailheads for Scribner Falls Trail #106, Surveyor's Ridge Trail #40, Horseshoe Loop Trail #141, and Northbound Creek Trail #111 nearby. Hunting and trout fishing are available in designated areas. Access requires driving 29 miles east of Avery on rugged single-lane forest roads with pullouts; low clearance vehicles are not recommended, and roads may be slick when wet.

Directions

From Avery: Drive 29 miles east on St. Joe River Road (FH50) to Red Ives Road 218. Turn south (right) and drive 8 miles to Beaver Creek Road 303 junction (just past Beaver Creek Campground). Drive 7.5 miles to Road 201, turn south (left) toward Sawtooth Saddle. Drive 13 miles to access road 395A for Surveyors Lookout. Follow access road 0.5 miles to the lookout. Access via rugged single-lane road with pullouts; not recommended for low clearance vehicles. Road may be slick when wet.

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