Bald Mountain Lookout (Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, ID)

Overview

Bald Mountain Lookout offers the opportunity to enjoy unforgettable views and participate in a variety of recreational opportunities. It was built in 1956 and was used as a fire lookout until 1984. Guests can drive to the lookout in vehicles with good ground clearance, but trailers are not recommended due to some rough spots on the road.

The lookout is typically open from early July through early October. The accommodations are mostly primitive, but some conveniences are provided. Guests will need to bring some of their own supplies and gear for a comfortable experience.

Recreation

Access to Strychnine Ridge Trail 319 is just southwest of the lookout. This 4-mile trail intersects with Beason Meadows Trail 228 a half-mile below the lookout. The Beason Meadows Trail is 8.9 miles long and leads down to Giant White Pine Campground. These trails are open to hikers, mountain bikers, motorcyclists and equestrians. Click here for an Idaho OHV safety message.

Facilities

This lookout sits 50 feet off the ground. A stairway leads to an exterior catwalk that surrounds the cabin, which can accommodate four people. A table and four chairs, a futon that folds into a twin bed with foam pad and two cots are provided. Propane appliances include a cooking stove and heater. Cookware, dishes and utensils are provided. A pit toilet is located just below the lookout.

Water and electricity are not offered at the cabin. Guests need to bring their own drinking water and lighting/ Flashlights. Garbage bags are also needed to pack out trash.

Bedding and additional mattresses are not provided. The refrigerator has been removed, guests may want to consider bringing a cooler with extra ice for perishable items.

Natural Features

Bald Mountain is one of the highest peaks in the Hoodoo Mountain Range, and it's heavily forested with a mix of larch, red cedar, hemlock, western white pine, Douglas fir and Engelmann spruce. The lookout offers a bird's eye view of the surrounding mountains from its perch 5,334 feet above sea level.

Guests who come to this rustic retreat can enjoy a panorama featuring the golden, rolling hills of the Palouse to the south and St. Maries to the north. The lookout offers an ideal vantage point to watch sunrises and sunsets or gaze at the stars.

Wildlife watchers may see eagles soaring through the sky. Bear, moose, elk and deer are frequently spotted in the area.

Nearby Attractions

Bald Mountain Lookout is located just off Highway 6, which is known as the White Pine Scenic Byway. This 80-mile scenic drive takes visitors through beautiful forests, historic towns and scenic farmland.