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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN

Kooskia, Idaho · Idaho County · Campground

Overview Walde Lookout Cabin was built in 1941 to house the employees who worked in the adjacent fire lookout, which was built in 1939. The fire lookout is still in use during the summer and fall, so the cabin is only available for rent from approximately mid-December through late March. This charming, rustic cabin has…

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About WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN

Overview Walde Lookout Cabin was built in 1941 to house the employees who worked in the adjacent fire lookout, which was built in 1939. The fire lookout is still in use during the summer and fall, so the cabin is only available for rent from approximately mid-December through late March. This charming, rustic cabin has been restored to its original character. Guests must reach the cabin by snowmobile, skis or snowshoes. This is a trip of around 17 miles, and guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety. The cabin provides a few conveniences, but guests will need to bring some supplies and gear to make a cozy and comfortable retreat for enjoying winter recreation.Recreation Several trails crisscross the vicinity, ideal for snowmobiling, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. There are good places to sled nearby.Facilities This 14x16-ft. log cabin accommodates four people with two mattresses located in a loft area and two cots. A wood stove heats the cabin, which is also equipped with a table and four chairs, a propane cook stove, propane lights, basic cooking and eating utensils, smoke alarm, mop and bucket, fire extinguisher and a snow shovel. Click here for additional cabin details. Firewood is available in a shed just outside. Toilet facilities consist of an outhouse with a pit toilet. Guests should be prepared to shovel a path to the cabin, shed and outhouse, as well as remove snow from the propane tank to turn it on. There is no electricity or running water. Guests should bring their own drinking water. Natural sources can also provide water, although it should be boiled for culinary use. Garbage bags are also needed to pack out trash. Bedding, flashlights or lanterns, extra batteries, matches, first aid supplies and toilet paper are not provided. Guests should remember to bring their rental permit with them to the cabin.Natural Features The cabin sits at an elevation of 5,220 feet on the watershed divide between the Lochsa and Clearwater Ri

How to Get There

From Kooskia, ID, take Highway 12 East to Kamiah. Turn left onto Woodland Road for half a mile, then take the second right onto Glenwood Road (Road 100). Stay on this paved road until you reach the junction with Yakus Creek Road (Road 519). Park here (be sure to park out of the way of traffic as there may be active logging operations throughout the winter). Travel by snowmobile along Road 519 about 1 mile where it turns into Road 514. Travel this road for approx. 9 miles where it intersects Road 101 at Fan Saddle. Continue on Road 101 for another 5 miles to Mystery Saddle and turn right on Road 486A. At the junction of Road 486D, stay to the right and follow Road 486A for another 2 miles to Walde Cabin.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed 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 WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN

Heading to WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN? 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 WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN?

No central reservation system listed for WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233126) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN?

From Kooskia, ID, take Highway 12 East to Kamiah. Turn left onto Woodland Road for half a mile, then take the second right onto Glenwood Road (Road 100). Stay on this paved road until you reach the junction with Yakus Creek Road (Road 519). Park here (be sure to park out of the way of traffic as there may be active logging operations throughout the winter). Travel by snowmobile along Road 519 abou…

How do I contact WALDE LOOKOUT CABIN?

You can reach the park at phone: 208-926-4274 or email: byankoviak@fs.fed.us.