Diablo Mountain Lookout (Summit)

Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, Clearwater National Forest, Idaho

I had a great opportunity to help out the USFS as a volunteer at a Fire Lookout deep in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. I spend enough time in this wilderness so it was great to give something back. The summit of Diablo Mountain is one of 4 manned lookouts in the Powell Ranger District, an area the was the most difficult for Lewis and Clark on their journey westward. This is the great place I spent my week.

No people came my way all week long, but there were 2 fires I was keeping an eye on. Fortunately a storm came in with snow up high and rain lower down. Really stopped the spread of both fires, but left some hot spots behind. Gave me more time to watch the animals. Had 2 big elk fight it out, photo isn't great but you can see lots of antlers in this shot. They sure were noisey. First time I have witnessed an elk fight first hand. Way better than seeing it on a nature show.

Had several pika in the rocks right by the summit, fun to watch but skittish as all get out. I like these little guys.

Lots of deer...

and birds hung out with me...

...and lots of these Golden Mantled Ground Squirrels. They are just fun to watch. They only have 2 speeds, full tilt and stop.

In the evenings I explored all over the mountain. Pretty rugged terrain, but quite majestic at the same time. Great sunsets...

Sunrises were just as good...

I put the lantern on one evening then went out to look around a bit. Took this shot. Thought it was pretty cool.

Here is what the inside of the fire lookout looks like...

The "bathroom" was a bit down a side trail...

...but the view was really good.

Made this pancake breakfast my last morning in the lookout. They were great. Wish I could make them on backpacking trips. Loved the Forest Service logo on the plate. They have to be pretty old. Love to find one or two to have my own.