Reviews for this site — 001, Loop: AREA SURVEYORS LOOKOUT

3.5
(16 reviews)

Showing 4 of 16 reviews

Joel K Verified
Stayed date
Aug 2026

We did a roadtrip visiting and stay in 7 different fire lookouts 7 days in a row, bringing our cat along with us. If you want more information about that, find me on YouTube @JoelKalich. Location and Access: The largest issue, and a large part of the reason for 3 stars, is that we had to break into the lookout to access it, as the access code was not on the confirmation email, and the number on the listing rang forever without even going to voice mail. We probably could've called around to get the code, but by the time we thought to do that, we were already at the lookout and everyone had gone home for the night. The location of the lookout is fantastic, it was the most rural lookout on our trip. The road to get to it was decent, my lifted Volvo XC70 had no problem, and I'd expect a stock Subaru Outback to be OK if you drive slow, though the last 0.6 miles was pretty rough. We also had to clear a tree on the way up to the lookout. The lookout: This lookout looks like it would've been awesome to stay in 5 to 10 years ago. However, now, it's pretty rough. It's clear that, at some point, someone put A LOT of effort into making this a great place to stay, but it's currently very much in need of some TLC. The floor is coming up. The window screens are much appreciated, but could use replacement. The bathroom was not the cleanest, though it was well stocked with TP. Someone had gone against what the instructions say, and had turned off the gas to the heater and fridge. Due to my single night stay, I didn't have time to try to re-light them. This was the only lookout on our trip that had only a single bed platform, so I had to sleep on the floor, which was fine. It did include multiple mattresses. We also just chose to use our own stove instead of the included one, though we did manage to get the included one to light! If you're looking for a roughing-it experience, you'll be completely fine here, but don't count on the appliances, and bring screwdrivers!

Dave H Verified
Stayed date
Sep 2024

Overall a sturdy lookout in a great location. Plentiful huckleberries. Needs some cleaning and care, but we are very greatful to the FS for this lookout. Saw the craziest northern lights I've ever seen. Unfortunately this lookout needs a gate, as we were visited by 8 parties (7 ORV's and a truck) who wanted to walk around and see inside and stand on the deck or make phone calls. Then they proceeded to crank music and keep drinking on the summit parking area next to the lookout. We asked them to leave. Lookouts without gates attract visitors. They should raise the rates and build gates.

Hannah P Verified
Stayed date
Aug 2024

Great lookout! Feels remote! But was disappointed with how dirty the lookout was. Felt like the last month none of the other guest had taken care to clean it! Road getting in is great. Just the last half mile is kind of tough. No service. Oven worked great, fridge did not.

Morgan R Verified
Stayed date
Jan 2020

Great experience for our family every year! It's best to try and book this site during a new moon.