Reviews for this site — 001, Loop: AREA GIRARD RIDGE LOOKOUT

4.6
(22 reviews)

Showing 10 of 22 reviews

kaitlin G Verified
Stayed date
Jul 2025

Views were amazing. Road was ok. Beds were terrible.

Ann W Verified
Stayed date
Jun 2025

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Lookout. The drive up isn't nearly as bad as some might suggest, just a few sharp turns to navigate, and then you're rewarded with spectacular views. The vistas of Mount Shasta and Castle Crags were absolutely breathtaking, providing a stunning backdrop to our days. We spent a lot of time hiking along the old logging roads, which offered even more incredible viewpoints and a chance to truly immerse ourselves in the natural beauty. As night fell, the stars put on an unforgettable show – they were truly amazing and offered a rare glimpse into the clarity of the night sky away from city lights. Regarding the "resident mouse," we never actually saw it! We followed the helpful tip of using a foil ball to clog the small hole by the door jam, and it seemed to do the trick perfectly, keeping any critters out. Just a small heads-up: one board on the stairs is missing, so definitely watch your step there. Overall, the peace and quiet was incredibly relaxing and exactly what we needed. We can't wait to visit again.

Will A Verified
Stayed date
Jun 2025

Really lovely. The upside is that there were no unexpected human visitors. The downside is that there were no unexpected animal visitors. There was Ceiling Mouse, but Ceiling Mouse was expected. It was a very neat place to see Shasta and the Crags. Thanks, USFS!

Erik G Verified
Stayed date
Jun 2025

Next. Level experience. Very private and the feeling of being connected with nature was incredible.

Daniel B Verified
Stayed date
Sep 2024

Such a cozy old lookout cabin! The drive is long, and 4WD high clearance is required, as stated. This lookout feels old and tired, but in an authentic way. Beautiful evergreens surround it, and there's a nice fire ring next to it. This has clearly never been "restored", but it has been maintained just enough to say that it has survived. Just treat it kindly and step carefully on the deck. One of the beds is much more comfortable than the other, there's a good stock of cleaning supplies and games and books. Compared to Hirz Mountain lookout, which feels industrial and serious, this one feels like a family cabin in the woods. Both are great, but this one is much easier to get to.

Jessica G Verified
Stayed date
Oct 2023

Seriously so magical! The drive up is a bit a bit sketchy. I had an AWD car but would’ve felt more comfortable in something a bit more capable. It’s 6 miles up but a 45 minute drive. Once your up though it’s so worth the breathtaking views and incredible stars. Would definitely come back!

Bruce J Verified
Stayed date
Oct 2022

My 4th visit to this lookout... truly a magical place

Jaden C Verified
Stayed date
Sep 2022

Such an amazing place. It was so surreal being up in the clouds. Amazing views!! Can’t wait to go back next year. Other than waking up early to random people in our camp yelling at us that you can’t own the forest and they don’t have to leave even though they walked through a locked gate. (Maybe putting up a sign that says reservations only?) it was absolutely perfect!

Darrell J Verified
Stayed date
Oct 2021

Amazing view. We loved our visit and wish that we could have stayed longer. It would be great to provide a trash drop-off somewhere along the way out so that visitors don't have to lug their garbage all the way back home. You could put a combination lock on it as well. DJ

Aniruddha J Verified
Stayed date
Aug 2020

Excellent views of Mt. Shasta during the day and a sky full of stars at night. One of the best views of Shasta. The property is well maintained and the toilets were clean. Please bring adequate cleaning supplies. The unpaved road is for 6 miles. High ground clearance vehicle is recommended but a sedan will also work just fine. Do not miss taking a dip in Sacramento River after exiting I5N. On a hot sunny day, when temperatures can go north of 100, its a life saver.