Warner Mountain Lookout is the winter wonderland destination for avid winter sports enthusiasts looking for a challenge. This replica of an old cupola-style lookout sits on a high vantage point of Warner Ridge at an altitude of 5,300 feet approximately 75 miles southeast of Eugene, Oregon. The lookout towers over forest cover of noble fir, mountain hemlock and silver fir at the crest of Warner Mountain. The lookout is close to Middle Fork Willamette River - Moon Point Trail Area, with a diverse habitat ranging from meadows to rocky cliffs and dotted with high-elevation conifers.
This is a very remote location; the road to the lookout is not plowed or maintained for winter travel. The lookout can only be accessed by skis, snowmobiles or snowshoes, a distance of 2-10 miles. Conditions on the mountain change rapidly. You need to be evaluating conditions and weather throughout your stay. Sudden storms and high winds may make skiing and driving conditions difficult. Experience in cross-country skiing or snowshoe travel is highly recommended. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. The reward is worth the effort of getting there. Guests will enjoy panoramic views of the pristine snow-covered landscape and starry skies on clear nights.
The 14x14-ft. cabin sits atop a 40-foot tower and is surrounded by a catwalk. The cabin accommodates 4 people and is furnished with one double bed that comfortably sleeps two, a table and chairs, propane stoves for heating and cooking, cookware, dishes, broom and a 2-way radio for emergency use. There is an outhouse nearby. No water or electricity is provided. Guests typically melt snow for their supply of water for drinking, cooking and washing. A large pot is provided for this purpose.Items such as bedding, extra mattresses, flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, and towels are not reliably available after mid-season. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.
Winter recreationists can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling on the terrain in the nearby Middle Fork Willamette River - Moon Point Trail Area. Reaching the cabin on the 10-mile access road is part of the snow sport fun. Visitors might also catch a glimpse of any number of wildlife that lives in the area.
Know Before You Go
Overnight stays are by reservation only. Walk-ins are not allowed.
Experience in cross-country skiing or snowshoe travel is highly recommended; renters should plan an entire day of travel to reach the lookout
Be prepared for extreme winter weather conditions; guests should be experienced in back country travel and survival skills
Carry adequate clothing, food, water and equipment
There is no water; guests must provide their own water for drinking, cooking and washing
No open flames, including candles, are permitted
Cabin access is on steep, narrow metal gripping stairs up the 41 foot tower.
Guests should come prepared for driving in winter conditions and carry tire chains and a shovel; this is a high wind and storm area
A high-clearance vehicle is recommended
Guests must pack out all trash and clean the cabin before departure
Smoking is not permitted
Pets are not allowed.
Guests can contact the Ranger District prior to arrival to check on any restrictions or conditions, road closures, weather or storms, which might affect their visit.
