Three Fingers Trip Planning
As of August 2023, Road FS 41 is open to just before the bridge just beyond milepost 8.5. During the Winter of 22/23 a large washout occurred around MP 6 reducing the road to one lane. It is entirely possible that this section will not survive a rainstorm and vehicles beyond this point may be stranded.
Trail and lookout crew schedule for Summer 2023 ->
- Sep 29 - Oct 1 Lookout closed for shutter and door replacement
Please plan to camp elsewhere during these dates.
This hike is very difficult and strenuous, and the last half mile of the trail requires mountain climbing equipment and expertise. You must traverse a short, steep section of the Three Fingers snow Glacier, make a rocky scramble and ascend steep ladders to the lookout on the south peak of Three Fingers. Mountain. As there is considerable exposure, those using the cabin and ladder must determine if the climb to the lookout is safe.
Meadow Mt trail has been brushed and flagged from FS 41 to Meadow Mt summit. There is a huge log that has rerouted the trail above Saddle lake. Look for a rough trail that goes straight up/down to the next switchback. We plan on flagging this soon.
The last snow field before the lookout is very icy. It is highly recommended to bring traction.
Maximum occupancy of lookout is 8, First come, first served. Be prepared to camp below the lookout. You may be turned around by occupants. Use Rocky Talkie/Motorola FRS channel 1 to communicate with lookout from Goat Flats. If you are at the lookout, please reciprocate by monitoring channel 1.
Due to social media, visitation to the lookout is now extremely high, even on weekdays.
Human waste is an increasing problem at the lookout. Hiding poop and paper under rocks or snow quickly become exposed. Use the toilet at Goat Flat or pack out solid waste and toilet paper. Please do not dispose of blue bags at the Goat Flat toilet.
Report damage to lookout or missing equipment to friendsofthreefingers@gmail.com and everettlotm@gmail.com
Donate via PayPal. If you have a PayPal account, you can make a donation at friendsofthreefingers@gmail.com.
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If you are interested in a tax-deductible donation, we have a relationship with the Forest Fire Lookout Association (a 501(c)3 organization) which provides this avenue. Write the check to Forest Fire Lookout Association, but note that it is intended for Friends of Three Fingers Lookout. Send it to: Forest Fire Lookout Association, 2590 W. Versailles Drive, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83815-8127.
Recent trip reports: