Short paths lead to two spectacular landmarks of the Rogue-Umpqua Divide high country: the historic Hershberger Mountain lookout and the 400-foot rock spires of Rabbit Ears. To round out the day with a longer hike, try the nearby trail to Cripple Camp’s shelter, in a wildflower meadow surrounded by huge Douglas firs.

To start, drive . . .

Built in 1925, the 12-foot-square building has an inside ladder to a cupola—a small second story full of windows. Views sweep from Mt. Bailey to Mt. Shasta.  The lookout was restored with the intention of making it available for rental, but the access road doesn’t meet regulations, so the empty lookout is left unlocked and open to overnight users for free on a first-come-first-served basis.  Don’t expect furniture, lights, heat, or anything else except a view.

For the more substantial hike to Cripple Camp’s shelter, drive . . . 

Other Hiking Options

Backpackers can continue past . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes: Southern Oregon