About Scurvy Mountain Lookout
Overview The popular lookout is perched on Scurvy peak at the end of trail #524 overlooking the Moose buttes, Cayuse and Kelly Cr drainages and Scurvy Lake. The first lookout was a platform built in 1917 with a cabin added in 1935. The present cab was built in 1952 that was gradually restored by volunteers over a 10-year span and became an inclusion to the National Register of Historic lookouts in 2004. The trailhead to the cabin is not assessable with low clearance vehicles, and the 4 plus miles of trail from the trailhead to the cabin is a moderately difficult, multi-use trail with several steep grades. Guests must bring their own supplies and gear for a comfortable stay as there are no linens, cleaning supplies, or toiletries provided. Although assessable by OHV's less than 50" in width, the roads and trails leading to the cabin can be partially or fully blocked by debris or snowpack in the early season. Off trail/road motorized travel is strictly prohibited. Visitors are strongly advised to consult the forest website, as well as a map prior to reserving or traveling to the cabin and to call the district information desk with any questions. Recreation Due to its location, the lookout is an ideal base camp for those looking to reconnect with nature, or as a stopover for a variety of outdoor enthusiasts as they explore the district. The remote location combined with the open skyline and a 360-degree view is perfect for those who enjoy stargazing. There are also several other trails in the vicinity that offer connection to a host of recreation opportunities including berry picking, hiking, biking, sightseeing, and birding being the most popular. Recreate responsibly, be sure to check the regulations and rules to educate yourself before you recreate by visiting https://idfg.idaho.gov/ and https://www.fs.usda.gov/news/nezperceclearwater/news-events for up-to-date information. Facilities The restored lookout is comprised of a 12’ x 12’ wooden “cab” surrounded by a catw
How to Get There
Scurvy Mountain Lookout is approximately 35 air miles northeast of the community of Pierce, Idaho on the North Fork Ranger District of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest. The last 50 miles of travel to the cabin from Pierce are mostly single lane, gravel surfaced roadways that may be peppered with large potholes and rocks, the last 4 miles being rutted 2 track road requiring 4X4 high clearance vehicles operated by experienced operators and 5 miles of multi-use, moderate difficulty trail. Seasonal conditions permitting, the cabin is also approachable from I90 via Superior MT, with the addition of a high mountain pass that is usually impassible from late Oct to mid-July with 50 miles of gravel/dirt road conditions including 4 miles being rutted 2 track road requiring 4X4 high clearance vehicles operated by experienced operators and 5 miles of multi-use, moderate difficulty trail. To plan your trip accordingly, visitors are strongly advised to consult a map, the forest web site, and seasonal conditions in advance of making reservations as well as prior to travel since there are no services available on the forest. To approach Scurvy from Idaho via US HWY 12 and State HWY 11: Locate French Mountain Road, also known as Forest Service Road FSR 250, on the east side of State HWY 11 (Main St) on the south end of Peirce Idaho (approximately 3/4 of a mile from city center). Travel on FSR 250 for approximately 45 miles (be sure to stay to the right after crossing the North Fork of
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
- 🌡
Layers for swings
Daily temp range is wide (49°F low → 76°F high). Pack layers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Scurvy Mountain Lookout
Heading to Scurvy Mountain Lookout? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Scurvy Mountain Lookout?
No central reservation system listed for Scurvy Mountain Lookout. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10322605) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Scurvy Mountain Lookout?
Scurvy Mountain Lookout is approximately 35 air miles northeast of the community of Pierce, Idaho on the North Fork Ranger District of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest. The last 50 miles of travel to the cabin from Pierce are mostly single lane, gravel surfaced roadways that may be peppered with large potholes and rocks, the last 4 miles being rutted 2 track road requiring 4X4 high clearan…
How do I contact Scurvy Mountain Lookout?
You can reach the park at phone: 208 (476) 4541 or email: None.
References & Official Resources