Shorty Peak Lookout

SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT
SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT
SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

Sites & Rates

1 total site · $45.00 avg/night

About Shorty Peak Lookout

Shorty Peak Lookout, 45 miles northwest of Bonners Ferry, sits atop Shorty Peak with views of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges of Northern Idaho, Montana, and British Columbia. The rustic dwelling was once used to patrol forest fires, and is now a unique way for overnight guests to escape the city and become enthralled with 360 degree views of area's magnificence. Access requires a moderate to steep 2.5 mile hike with a 1,300 foot elevation gain. The lookout was refurbished in 2005 and is in excellent condition.

Number of accommodations: 1

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
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Feb
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Currently open - Jun 21 to Oct 5

001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

$45.00
/ per night
🏠 Cabin Unavailable

Site Details

Up to 4 guests
Surface: Gravel
View Site Details

Reviews (66)

What Guests Are Saying

Visitors to Shorty Peak Lookout enjoyed their stay, highlighting spectacular views and a rewarding hike, though they noted the trail can be challenging. Many appreciated the lookout's well-maintained facilities and amenities, such as firewood and games. However, there were common concerns about spider infestations and the condition of the beds, with some recommending bringing bug spray for the hike. Overall, guests found it a memorable experience, perfect for a private retreat.

Review Summary

4.8
66 reviews
5
81.8%
54
4
13.6%
9
3
4.5%
3
2
0.0%
0
1
0.0%
0

Rebecca R

Verified

July 5, 2023 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Lookout in immaculate shape as always ! 3rd time up here and the mosquitoes always kill on the way up but the top is always worth it

Rebecca R

Verified

July 5, 2023 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Lookout in immaculate shape as always ! 3rd time up here and the mosquitoes always kill on the way up but the top is always worth it

Rebecca R

Verified

July 5, 2023 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Lookout in immaculate shape as always ! 3rd time up here and the mosquitoes always kill on the way up but the top is always worth it

Granite A

Verified

July 14, 2022 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Greatly enjoyed my stay here with a friend. Was an excellent chance to slow down and enjoy life!

Granite A

Verified

July 14, 2022 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Greatly enjoyed my stay here with a friend. Was an excellent chance to slow down and enjoy life!

Granite A

Verified

July 14, 2022 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Greatly enjoyed my stay here with a friend. Was an excellent chance to slow down and enjoy life!

Marcus B

Verified

August 24, 2021 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Great experience. It's a 2.6 mile hike up. About 1300' elevation gain. Trail is rough in spots. It winds through heavy timber for most of the way. The trail to the spring branches off about 1/2 mile before the summit and it's about a 1/2 mile down that trail to the spring. The spring is probably about 800 feet below the lookout. The lookout is in good shape, has two single beds with fairly comfortable mattresses. There is no stove for heat or otherwise. There is a table, a couple of chairs, and a bureau with drawers and doors which contains some various gear left for everyone to use. The outhouse is a bit of a hike down about 200 yards. The views from the lookout are amazing. You can see in all directions, as well as get a good view of parts of the Kootenai River Valley. Excellent view of the Lions Head, a stunning peak in the heart of the Idaho Selkirks.

Marcus B

Verified

August 24, 2021 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Great experience. It's a 2.6 mile hike up. About 1300' elevation gain. Trail is rough in spots. It winds through heavy timber for most of the way. The trail to the spring branches off about 1/2 mile before the summit and it's about a 1/2 mile down that trail to the spring. The spring is probably about 800 feet below the lookout. The lookout is in good shape, has two single beds with fairly comfortable mattresses. There is no stove for heat or otherwise. There is a table, a couple of chairs, and a bureau with drawers and doors which contains some various gear left for everyone to use. The outhouse is a bit of a hike down about 200 yards. The views from the lookout are amazing. You can see in all directions, as well as get a good view of parts of the Kootenai River Valley. Excellent view of the Lions Head, a stunning peak in the heart of the Idaho Selkirks.

Marcus B

Verified

August 24, 2021 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Great experience. It's a 2.6 mile hike up. About 1300' elevation gain. Trail is rough in spots. It winds through heavy timber for most of the way. The trail to the spring branches off about 1/2 mile before the summit and it's about a 1/2 mile down that trail to the spring. The spring is probably about 800 feet below the lookout. The lookout is in good shape, has two single beds with fairly comfortable mattresses. There is no stove for heat or otherwise. There is a table, a couple of chairs, and a bureau with drawers and doors which contains some various gear left for everyone to use. The outhouse is a bit of a hike down about 200 yards. The views from the lookout are amazing. You can see in all directions, as well as get a good view of parts of the Kootenai River Valley. Excellent view of the Lions Head, a stunning peak in the heart of the Idaho Selkirks.

Desi S

Verified

October 5, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA SHORTY PEAK LOOKOUT

5

Weather turned out amazing !! Sunset and sunrise were spectacular. Late September so a little chilly. Brought hand and feet warmers. Brought battery lights to hand in lookout. Couple games in cabin to play which was much appreciated. Lol cattle on road were very stubborn! But got to trailhead easy, road was well Maintained. Hike has a pretty good elevation gain 🥵 but totally worth it.

Location Shorty Peak Lookout

Address:
6286 Main Street
Bonners Ferry, ID, 83805
United States

Latitude & Longitude: 48.9403 / -116.688

Elevation: 1940 feet

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Last updated: July 11, 2026

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