Shorty Peak Lookout

Star4.69
30 reviews
6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA
Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazing

Quick Facts

6,401 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open June 21, 2025 -...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Idaho Panhandle National Forests site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
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

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Provider
208-267-5561
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What Campers Say

4.69

Top-Rated

Based on 30 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."

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Campground Map

6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA

Shorty Peak Lookout

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.

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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open in summer and popular for good weather; mosquitoes can be an issue mid‑season.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into early Oct; crisp, scenic fall conditions though late Sept can be chilly.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Official open season begins Jun 21; spring access generally not available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Site closed outside Jun 21–Oct 5; winter season not available.

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.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
7consecutive nights

Amenities available

Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

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.
HikingThe 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 viewingWildlife 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
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear country (grizzly and black). Steep trail sections; high-altitude sun exposure. Pit toilet located ~200 yards from cabin.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Shorty Peak Lookout

Reviews

4.7
30 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
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 30 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...
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Based on 30 reviews

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 30 reviews

Pro 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...
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Based on 30 reviews

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 30 reviews

Camper 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...
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Based on 30 reviews

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...
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Based on 30 reviews

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 30 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

None of the reviews provide information on pet policies or experiences involving pets.
Based on 30 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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