Girard Ridge Lookout

The place was amazing. Great views of Mt Shasta and the stars. Got to see a swarm of dragon flys above feeding on the bugs and some critters here and there. Only problem was it wasn't very ventilated so it was pretty hot inside and the meat bees were relentless. Either than that I recommend.

A great place to stay. No traffic noise and beautiful views of Castle Crags and Mount Shasta.

AWE-INSPIRING!!! One of the best moments in my life was staying here one night. Not long enough, believe me. I have some great pictures as you can see and it's only a handful of what we took. This spot takes your breath away, constantly and you want to continually capture it in photos. We took so many between the two of us with mobile devices, separate cameras and hi-def drone video footage. The beauty of nature is magical and this spot is mesmerizing, soothing, stunning, tranquil, energizing and a piece of heaven here on earth. I'm glad the forest service is making places like this possible to visit. I will be back and I will stay for a much lengthier visit. You have to see it! . It is about a 30 minute drive up from I-5 at Castella. It is a dry "camp" meaning, no water or electricity. It does have an enclosed pit toilet not far from the tower, 80ish feet or so. There are three screened windows that open for fresh air/ventilation (N,S,W). The two twin beds are springy so bring something thick to lay on top of the mattresses. The views are primarily north and west. It is on public land so you could have PCT hiking visitors or other visitors but they cannot enter the tower without permission of current occupants. You clean before you leave and pack everything out with you. There is no one that services it between occupants. Be aware of animals. Especially at night when using the pit toilet.

Despite the smoke blowing in on the second and third day the trip was still amazing and worth it. Being able to sit and relax with no city noise and soak up the peace and quiet up on the tower, definitely a trip my friends and I will be doing again next year.

Beautiful place to soak up the views of Castle Crags and Mount Shasta when it’s not covered in the clouds. It’s an easy drive to get here. There is a locked gate 1/2 mike from Lookout. Easy walk and there is a outhouse that is open to use. Picnic table and fire pit for those staying the night to use. It looks like it has been well taken care of and I hope people continue to respect and maintain it.