Fall Mountain Lookout Cabin
Malheur National Forest
Fall Mountain Lookout Tower is situated about 20 miles from John Day, in central Oregon. It provides 360-degree views of the surrounding Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, as well as the towns of Seneca and Mt. Vernon. The lookout offers access to a variety of recreational activities. In addition to sightseeing, visitors to the area enjoy hunting, hiking and viewing wildlife.
The lookout can accommodate just two people and provides few amenities. It can be accessed by vehicle. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring many of their own supplies.
The one-room, 14-by-14 cabin sits atop an 18-foot tower and sleeps two. The cabin is furnished with a futon bed and a table and chairs. It has electricity and in the kitchen area, an electric stove and refrigerator. The kitchen also contains pots, pans, dishes and tableware.
A catwalk encircles the structure, allowing for unobstructed views of the surrounding area. A vault toilet is located near the base of the tower.
There is no water available on site. Guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking and washing, as well as sleeping bags/bedding, a flashlight or lantern for emergencies, first aid kit, towels, garbage bags, toilet paper and dish soap.
Need to Know
- There is no water at the lookout tower; guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking and washing
- The tower remains locked; guests will need to have a combination lock code, which will be contained in the reservation confirmation letter
- Weather conditions and snow may delay the opening of the access road to the lookout beyond the scheduled dates, as well as force early closures
- This is bear country; use appropriate containers for food and garbage; learn more about bear safety
Contact the Blue Mountain Ranger District prior to arrival to inquire about current conditions and possible restrictions, such as fire or road closures, weather and anything else that may affect the quality of a visit
- Learn more about the The Malheur National Forest
- The last road leading to Fall Mountain Lookout is exceptionally narrow, rutty and rough. Visitors are encouraged to use a high-clearance vehicle and use caution while driving up to the lookout
- Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
- This is a 'pack in pack out' facility. Guests must pack out all food and garbage when they leave.
Fall Mountain Lookout is adjacent to a telecom site and has excellent mobile phone reception.
Natural Features
The tower was built in 1933 and sits at an elevation of 5,949 feet. Before satellite surveillance systems, lookout personnel monitored the forest from this 18-foot perch for signs of smoke, alerting fire guards when necessary. Today guests can watch the sun rise and set, spot wildlife from the catwalk and witness dramatic thunderstorms that traverse the territory during summer months.
Nearby Attractions
The nearby Strawberry Mountain Wilderness area includes approximately 69,350 acres of land, including mountain peaks and several lakes, as well as the headwaters of Pine, Indian, Strawberry, Canyon, Bear, Lake, Wall, Roberts and Big Creek streams. A variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, antelope, black bear, cougar, bighorn sheep, ruffed and blue grouse, pileated woodpecker, sharp-shinned hawk, bald eagle, pine marten, mink and beaver. A varieties of bird and fish can be seen in the area.
Recreation
Recreational options include wildlife viewing, huckleberry picking, star gazing and hiking the area around the lookout. There is a multiple-use trailhead south of the tower, at Starr Springs. Designated hiking trails into the wilderness are located 30 minutes from the lookout tower by vehicle.
Contact Information
Mailing
431 Patterson Bridge Road John Day OR 97845
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 541-820-3800
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
[CAUTION! Google maps may direct you to Luce Creek Road/County Road 76. This road does not provide access to Fall Mountain Lookout - it becomes a private road with an impassible, locked gate.] From John Day, travel approximately 15.5 miles south on Highway 395. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 4920. Follow Forest Service Road 4920 approximately 5 miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 607 and continue approximately 1 mile to the lookout.
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