About Arid Peak Lookout
Number of accommodations: 1
Nearby Activities & Attractions
Hiking
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Campground Amenities
Views and Setting
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001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Site Details
Reviews (46)
What Guests Are Saying
Arid Peak Lookout offers a unique and rustic experience, with many visitors enjoying the beautiful scenery and the cozy lookout despite its need for some maintenance. While the hike can be challenging, it is generally manageable, and the area is appreciated for its tranquility and abundance of nature. However, some travelers have reported difficulties with directions and access, emphasizing the importance of careful navigation.
What Guests Are Saying
Arid Peak Lookout offers a unique and rustic experience, with many visitors enjoying the beautiful scenery and the cozy lookout despite its need for some maintenance. While the hike can be challenging, it is generally manageable, and the area is appreciated for its tranquility and abundance of nature. However, some travelers have reported difficulties with directions and access, emphasizing the importance of careful navigation.
Review Summary
BEAUMONT L
VerifiedJanuary 18, 2026 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
we had a great time at Arid Peak! The hike kicked our butts, but we managed. The lookout needs a little maintenance, but it sounds like it was scheduled to be done. We loved the unique experience and the opportunity to be unplugged for a little while. Highly recommend, if you are up for a "rustic" experience with some quiet together time.
BEAUMONT L
VerifiedJanuary 18, 2026 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
we had a great time at Arid Peak! The hike kicked our butts, but we managed. The lookout needs a little maintenance, but it sounds like it was scheduled to be done. We loved the unique experience and the opportunity to be unplugged for a little while. Highly recommend, if you are up for a "rustic" experience with some quiet together time.
Hannah P
VerifiedAugust 24, 2025 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Loved this one. Hike was pretty painless and the lookout was old but so cozy!
Hannah P
VerifiedAugust 24, 2025 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Loved this one. Hike was pretty painless and the lookout was old but so cozy!
patrick s
VerifiedJuly 23, 2025 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Bad directions. Trail signs are down.
patrick s
VerifiedJuly 23, 2025 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Bad directions. Trail signs are down.
Lauren F
VerifiedJuly 16, 2025 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Arid Peak Lookout is incredible. Second time there. Thanks to all who keep it going and available for everyone to experience. I love Idaho!
Lauren F
VerifiedJuly 16, 2025 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Arid Peak Lookout is incredible. Second time there. Thanks to all who keep it going and available for everyone to experience. I love Idaho!
Andrew K
VerifiedAugust 27, 2024 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Fantastic!
Andrew K
VerifiedAugust 27, 2024 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA ARID PEAK LOOKOUT
Fantastic!
Location Arid Peak Lookout
Address:
34 Hoyt Drive Hc Box 1
Avery, ID, 83802
United States
From 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.
Latitude & Longitude: 47.3589 / -115.765
Elevation: 1610 feet
Policies & Rules
General
- Entry is by combination lock; combination can be found on your confirmation.
- No drinking water available; bring water or treat and boil spring water, found a half-mile down a steep trail
- Please bring garbage bags; this is a 'pack it in-pack it out' facility
- Wastewater should be strained and all food particles should be packed out; remaining water should be poured in a hole away from lookout
- No smoking allowed in lookout
- No pets allowed
- Please seal all food in rodent-proof containers (one provided) or coolers
- Bring plenty of blankets and warm clothes for cold nights
- Click here for more information on the Idaho Panhandle National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Nearby Campgrounds
Last updated: June 4, 2026
