Arid Peak Lookout

Star4.65
24 reviews
34 HOYT DRIVE HC BOX 1, AVERY, ID, 83802, USA
Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazingGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

5,306 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The campground is op...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Opens U.S. Forest Service 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
Arid Peak Lookout
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for the cabin is $45 during peak season. This does not include reservation service fees or other incremental costs.
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
208-245-4517
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What Campers Say

4.65

Top-Rated

Based on 24 reviews

Most mentioned

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"User reviews generally highlight the unique and rustic nature of staying at Arid Peak Lookout. Visitors frequently mention the breathtaking views, challenging hike, and opportunity to disconnect from modern distractions. "The hike in was beautiful, and the lookout was awesome.""

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Campground Map

34 HOYT DRIVE HC BOX 1, AVERY, ID, 83802, USA

Arid Peak Lookout

34 HOYT DRIVE HC BOX 1, AVERY, ID, 83802, USA

Driving directionsFrom Avery, turn left and head north up the North Fork of the St. Joe River Road #456 toward Wallace. Travel about 4.5 miles, then turn left down the hill just before the bridge across the river. You will then be on Road #1997, which is a single lane gravel road with pull outs. Drive about 3.5 miles and turn left on the first road (also labeled Road No. 1997). Travel 6.5 miles to Trailhead #175. A turn-around is just past the trailhead before the gate. Do not block the turnaround or the gate. Park in the wide spot by the trailhead. Hike up Trail #175 for 1.5 miles to the junction with Trail #173. Turn right and hike 1.5 miles on Trail #173 to Arid Peak.
The campground is accessible via Road #1997, a single-lane gravel road with pull-outs. Users note that the road is well-maintained forest service road.
Nearby places
The town of Avery is the nearest population center. Specific distances from other nearby cities are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials are available in Avery, the nearest town to the campground.

Best Time to Camp at Arid Peak Lookout

Summer days at Arid Peak Lookout greet visitors with pleasantly warm temperatures hovering around 72°F, while evenings cool to a refreshing 46°F—perfect for stargazing from your elevated perch. The lookout's lofty position typically rises above the morning fog, rewarding early risers with spectacular sunrises over clear mountain vistas. Past visitors consistently praise the crystal-clear skies and remarkably clean air, with forest fire smoke rarely obscuring the sweeping views during peak season.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 23% in ID

Open in summer; pleasant days (~72°F) and cool nights make summer ideal.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Early fall recommended; open through Sept 28 with crisp nights and clear air.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Official season opens June 27; spring access is not supported.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Facility is seasonally closed outside late June–late Sept; winter not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 27, 2025 - September 28, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: The campground is open from June 27, 2025, to September 28, 2025, during its peak season.

About Arid Peak Lookout

Perched high above the Bitterroot Mountains, Arid Peak Lookout invites adventurous souls to step back in time to 1934, when forest rangers first scanned these horizons for signs of smoke. This historic fire lookout tower, now lovingly preserved and listed on the National Register of Historic Lookouts, transforms overnight guests into modern-day fire spotters with 360-degree panoramic views. After conquering the challenging three-mile ascent, up to four guests can settle into this sky-high sanctuary, where multiple trails beckon from the doorstep and the vastness of Idaho's wilderness unfolds in every direction.
Arid Peak Lookout is a unique accommodation offering a historic fire lookout cabin for rent. The cabin provides a rustic lodging experience with basic essentials. "The lookout is listed on the National Register of Historic Lookouts and provides epic 360-degree views of the Bitterroot Mountains."
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Check-in
Check-in information not provided.
Check-out
Check-out information not provided.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 5 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Arid Peak Lookout offers a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. "The lookout offers access to the Arid Peak Trail #173, Mozier Peak Trail #174, and Kyle Creek Trail #175. All three trails are great for day-hiking but can also be explored over longer backpacking treks or on horseback." The nearby Hiawatha Bicycle Trail is renowned for its scenic beauty and historic trestles and tunnels. Wildlife sightings are common, with elk, deer, black bears, moose, and bald eagles frequently observed.
HikingGuests have access to Arid Peak Trail #173, Mozier Peak Trail #174, and Kyle Creek Trail #175. "All three trails are great for day-hiking but can also be explored over longer backpacking treks or on horseback."
FishingThe facility is located in a region known for its blue-ribbon cutthroat trout streams.
Biking"The Hiawatha Bicycle Trail is considered the 'crown jewel' of rail-to-trail mountain biking trails as it zips across seven trestles and through 10 tunnels in the magnificent Bitterroot Mountains. The trail can be accessed just over 10 miles from the lookout."
Wildlife viewingThe region is known for its wildlife diversity, including sightings of elk, deer, black bears, moose, and bald eagles. "Wildlife sightings of elk, deer, black bears, moose, and bald eagles are common."
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential dangers include steep trails, narrow stairways to the lookout, and wildlife like bears and pack rats. The area requires visitors to practice bear safety and take caution near the steep trails to the spring.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Arid Peak Lookout

Reviews

4.7
24 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Arid Peak Lookout is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the unique and rustic nature of staying at Arid Peak Lookout. Visitors frequently mention the breathtaking views, challenging hike, and opportunity to disconnect from modern distractions. "The hike in was beautiful, and the lookout was awesome."
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews

What Campers Love

Common praises include the stunning views, opportunity to relax in solitude, proximity to scenic trails, and the historical significance of the lookout. "The hike in was beautiful." "Such a fun and...
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Based on 24 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention challenges such as steep climbs, limited water availability, and maintenance issues like a faulty latch on the catwalk door. "Water is a challenge but all around a great trip."...
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Based on 24 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing sufficient water, sturdy hiking gear, and preparing thoroughly for the hike. "Bring plenty of blankets and warm clothes for cold nights." "Always best to hike it yourself...
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Based on 24 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Seasonal trends suggest summer and early fall are the best times to visit, with cooler nights providing comfort. "Temperature was very warm but cooled down nice at night." "Air quality was great; no...
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Based on 24 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Wonderful lookout & the hike in was beautiful." "The solitude and peace really made it magical." "The spring water is very very cold and refreshing." "As old and rickety as it appeared on the...
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Based on 24 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 is frequently mentioned in user reviews, highlighting its unique location and rustic accommodations. "There were several flat spots near the fire pit to set up tents since the lookout...
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Based on 24 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features, though the steep hike may be challenging for individuals with mobility impairments.
Based on 24 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed at the lookout. "No pets allowed."
Based on 24 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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