Shorty Peak Lookout
4.6913 reviews6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$45/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open June 21, 2025 -...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
Price
$45/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open June 21, 2025 -...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Shorty Peak Lookout
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Flat rate of $45 per night for the cabin (non-electric). Additional reservation fee applies: $8 online, $9 via call center, or $3 in person.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-267-5561
What Campers Say
4.69
Top-Rated
Based on 13 reviews
4 Google reviews
Most mentioned
views
"Shorty Peak Lookout receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. Visitors praise the cleanliness, seclusion, and breathtaking views. The hike to the lookout is described as challenging but rewarding."
Fees & Passes at Shorty Peak Lookout
$45/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: 7 consecutive nights
Cancellation: Cancellations more than 14 days out incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days) forfeit the...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Idaho Panhandle National Forests website.
Best Time to Camp at Shorty Peak Lookout
Mountain evenings here tell their own story, with summer temperatures dipping into the crisp mid-40s°F as the sun sets behind distant peaks. By late September, autumn's chill transforms the lookout into a true wilderness retreat where warm layers become your best companions. On crystal-clear nights, far from any light pollution, the heavens come alive with countless stars—a celestial show that makes bundling up in warm gear absolutely worthwhile.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open June 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025. Peak season matches these dates.
About Shorty Peak Lookout
Perched atop the dramatic heights of Shorty Peak, this restored fire lookout cabin beckons adventurers seeking an extraordinary escape above the clouds. Your journey begins with an invigorating 2.5-mile trek that climbs 1,300 feet through pristine wilderness, ultimately rewarding you with a cozy 15' x 15' historic cabin that floats like an island in the sky. From this lofty perch, the world unfolds in every direction—a breathtaking 360-degree panorama spanning three regions: Northern Idaho's rugged beauty, Montana's endless horizons, and the distant peaks of British Columbia.
The Shorty Peak Lookout offers only a single cabin accommodation for guests seeking a unique, rustic experience. The site does not feature traditional campgrounds or RV facilities.
Historical SignificanceThis sentinel of the forest has watched over these mountains for generations, originally serving as a vital outpost where brave fire spotters kept vigil over millions of acres of pristine wilderness. In 2005, this piece of living history was lovingly restored and transformed into a public mountain retreat, allowing modern adventurers to step into the boots of those early forest guardians while creating their own high-altitude memories.
Weather and SeasonsMountain evenings here tell their own story, with summer temperatures dipping into the crisp mid-40s°F as the sun sets behind distant peaks. By late September, autumn's chill transforms the lookout into a true wilderness retreat where warm layers become your best companions. On crystal-clear nights, far from any light pollution, the heavens come alive with countless stars—a celestial show that makes bundling up in warm gear absolutely worthwhile.
ElevationThe adventure to reach this sky-high sanctuary is half the magic—a soul-stirring 1,300-foot ascent that tests your legs while rewarding your spirit with ever-expanding vistas. Though the exact elevation of the cabin remains one of the mountain's mysteries, the dramatic climb ensures you'll feel every magnificent foot of altitude as the everyday world falls away beneath you.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your eagle's nest in the heart of Idaho Panhandle National Forest, the landscape spreads before you like a living map of the Northwest's most spectacular terrain. Gaze down into the verdant Kootenai Valley, trace the jagged skylines of both the U.S. and Canadian Selkirk Mountains, and watch shadows play across the Smith and Cow Creek drainages below. On clear days, the distinctive profiles of Red Top Mountain and Lone Tree Peak stand as ancient landmarks, while endless waves of forest-covered ridges stretch to every horizon.
Geological RegionNestled in the dramatic Lower Kootenai River Area of Idaho Panhandle National Forest, this lookout sits at the crossroads of geological wonders. Here, the ancient Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges converge in a spectacular display of peaks and valleys, while the invisible boundaries of Montana and Canada add an international dimension to your wilderness experience. This unique position offers visitors a front-row seat to the grand theater where tectonic forces sculpted one of North America's most stunning mountain landscapes.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess to the lookout requires a 2.5-mile hike with a 1,300-foot elevation gain, making it inaccessible to those with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself measures 15' x 15'. It is designed to accommodate two overnight guests.
Sites PrivacyThe lookout offers complete seclusion with no other campsites nearby, providing a high level of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring sufficient water or prepare to hike to the spring (800 feet below). Carry sunglasses due to intense sunlight in mornings. Warm clothing recommended for chilly nights.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
7consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
2
Groups
- There are no group sites
- the cabin accommodates only two guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin (15' x 15') on a 5-foot foundation. Includes modern furnishings, two twin beds, and a pit toilet within 100 yards.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025. Peak season matches these dates.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov: website, mobile app, or call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnavailable; reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations more than 14 days out incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days) forfeit the first night’s fee. No-show penalties: $20 and forfeit of first night.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Shorty Peak Lookout can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, stargazing, and landscape photography. The cabin’s location and surrounding trails provide opportunities for an immersive nature experience.
Hiking
The 2.5-mile hike to the lookout is considered moderate to steep, with a 1,300-foot elevation gain. The trail traverses heavy timber and offers scenic views. A side trail leading to a water spring is located approximately 0.5 miles from the summit.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with opportunities to see elk, deer, and black bears. Birding is highlighted, with species such as red-tailed hawks and golden eagles frequently spotted.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, but the site's location and elevation suggest potential snow coverage in winter months, which could impact accessibility.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable as there are no water bodies at the site.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No mention of fire restrictions. However, guests are advised not to bring firewood to prevent pest spread.
Hazards
General hazardsBear country (grizzly and black). Steep trail sections; high-altitude sun exposure. Pit toilet located ~200 yards from cabin.
Weather at Shorty Peak Lookout
24
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Moderate snow fall
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 97%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Snow - (0.40% chance)
Light flurries possible
Moderate snow fall
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Emergency services in Bonners Ferry, ID (50 miles away). Local ranger district contact: (208) 267-5561.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility, and guests are required to bring their own garbage bags and dispose of trash responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresA spring is located approximately 0.5 miles from the cabin, downhill on a side trail.
Common complaintsLimited water access; nearest spring is 0.5 miles downhill. Pit toilet odor noted by users.
HostNo on-site host, contact local ranger district at (208) 267-5561 for lock combinations.
Campground Map
6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA
Driving directionsFrom 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.
The final approach involves 28 miles of forest roads (some switchbacks). Roads are generally well-maintained, but caution is advised due to elevation and potential wildlife. Suitable for standard vehicles, no 4WD required.Nearby places
Bonners Ferry: 50 miles (~1 hour, 20 minutes driving). Creston, BC (Canada): Visible at night but distance unspecified.
Nearby supplies
Convenience store at Canadian border
full groceries and gear in Bonners Ferry, 50 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.7
13 reviews
Shorty Peak Lookout is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Shorty Peak Lookout receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. Visitors praise the cleanliness, seclusion, and breathtaking views. The hike to the lookout is described as challenging but rewarding.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests frequently mention the pristine condition of the lookout, the stunning 360-degree views, and the memorable stargazing opportunities. Many also appreciate the availability of small amenities...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the steep hike, lack of nearby water sources, and the distance to the pit toilet. Mosquitoes are noted as a nuisance during the hike in summer months.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing plenty of water, bedding, and warm clothing for cooler nights. Sunglasses are advised for the intense morning sun. Flashlights and garbage bags are essential due to the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that summer and early fall are the most popular times to visit due to favorable weather. Late September can be chilly, and mosquito activity is high during midsummer hikes.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The lookout is in great shape and clean!' - Mike B.\n2. 'We love staying at this lookout. You really feel isolated from the rest of the world.' - Janet P.\n3. 'The views from the lookout are...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 (Shorty Peak Lookout) is universally praised for its cleanliness, breathtaking views, and the unique experience it offers. Guests highlight the cabin's well-maintained condition and the...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not mention accessibility accommodations, and the steep trail and elevation gain make the site inaccessible to those with limited mobility.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
None of the reviews provide information on pet policies or experiences involving pets.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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