Bolan Mountain Lookout is a house of glass, with windows on all sides, and is surrounded by the sheer drop-offs of sharp cliffs of the rugged crest of the Siskiyou Mountains. Take in the breathtaking views of the Red Buttes and Siskiyou Wilderness areas, Preston Peak, and Bolan Lake. To the north and west are far views of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness and the Illinois River Valley. On a clear day, even Mount Shasta is visible to the southeast. And on a clear night, enjoy the dazzling display of stars and planets. Experience a silence that is hard to come by in today's world of modernity and hustle and bustle.

The cabin is small, just 14 x 14 feet, and is designed to house only one or two people comfortably, and offers a primitive camping experience. It is equipped with a table, two chairs, a two-person sleeping platform, a footstool, broom and fire extinguisher. There is no water available, so be sure to pack in water for drinking, cooking and washing. Visitors must also provide their own sleeping pads, camp stove, cookware, dishes and utensils. An outhouse is located near the lookout. While this lookout is not located on a tower, visitors must park below the lookout, and walk up a series of primitive stone steps to reach the lookout.

• Availability: Bolan Mountain Lookout is available for rent during the snow-free season, generally from July 12 to September 30.
• Price and Capacity: $65 per night per group, with a maximum of four occupants. Fees are used directly for the maintenance and preservation of this historic lookout.
  • Because of the steep cliffs at this site, and precipitous drop-offs, this rental is not recommended for families with toddlers or young children.
• Reservations: The maximum length stay is five consecutive nights. Call (877) 444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov

History

The original lookout, a "D-6" cupola-style lookout (such as those that still exist on the Rogue River-Siskiyou Nationa Forest’s Dutchman Peak and Hershberger Mountain), was constructed in 1925. The present structure, an L-4 style lookout, was constructed in 1953. Bolan Mountain Lookout is one of the last L-4-style lookouts that were popular during the 1930s, with few remaining in existance.