Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout
Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout was constructed in the 1920s by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and was in use until 1978. The lookout stands at 7,300 feet atop Little Mount Hoffman, 2½ miles west of Medicine Lake (shown above). From the lookout visitors enjoy panoramic views of the area including Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen, and Mt. McLoughlin. Unlike many other lookouts, Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout rests close to the ground. Its 14-square-foot cabin is available for rent, although at times of extreme fire danger the Forest Service may need to use the lookout. The cabin sleeps 4.
Cabin Features
Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout features a surrounding wooden deck. Inside are a wood stove, a pair of cots, a bucket and shovel, storage cabinets, a dining table, fire extinguisher, and cleaning supplies. Outside are a BBQ pit and picnic table. A vault toilet building is nearby. The cabin has no electricity, water, or cooking facilities. Visitors must bring their own bedding, water supply and garbage bags to pack out their trash. Other recommended supplies include toilet paper, firewood, cooking utensils, extra batteries and a flashlight or lantern. "The use of portable stoves using gas, jellied petroleum or pressurized liquid fuel is allowed with a valid California campfire permit. " (US Forest Service)
Nearby Activities
Guests at the lookout enjoy sightseeing, stargazing, and photography. Little Mt. Hoffman sits on the rim of a huge ancient caldera, providing a panoramic view of a diverse volcanic landscape. Don't forget your camera and binoculars. Hiking, fishing, and mountain biking are available in the area. Nearby Medicine Lake makes a wonderful day trip. There, visitors find a day-use area with a boat dock and a large swim beach.
Read full details about the cabin and check for updates at Recreation.gov - Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout and Shasta-Trinity NF - Little Mt. Hoffman Lookout.