Calimus Butte Lookout was first used as an observation point in 1919 with a 16x16' cabin with a cupola. This was replaced by the present cupola cabin in 1930. Ownership and management of the lookout has changed hands three times over the years, first by the Klamath Indian Agency, followed by the Oregon Department of Forestry in 1960, then the Winema National Forest in the mid-1970s. It is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register and is staffed every summer. It is one of only eight cupola lookouts standing in Oregon and one of three still staffed.
The cupola is not open to the public due to safety concerns, so please don’t ask to go in. But at 6600’ you can see for many miles in all directions right from ground level. Also, when you get to the lookout there is a parking area to the right just below the cupola. Further off to the right is a large mound of rocks. PLEASE stay away from here. We were told by the lookout attendant that this area is sacred to the Klamath Indian Tribe.
Access to this lookout is very easy. Any vehicle should be able to negotiate the graveled roads. We took Williamson River Rd to FS Rd 4542. From here it is about 4.5 miles to the lookout. There are no gates.
The cache is a regular size container and can withstand the elements. The fire lookout knows where it is. While here do not forget to log the bench marks.