Scenic Chairlift Rides: Easy Access to Two Extraordinary Hikes
08/04/20
The summit of Brundage Mountain is a stunning place to visit, all on its own.Taking a scenic chairlift ride from the Brundage base area will get you to this beautiful spot in 12-14 minutes.
At 7,640 feet elevation, the views are spectacular, even just a few steps away from the lift terminal.
What many people don’t realize, is that there are two highly rewarding hikes right at the summit of Brundage, each less than a mile round-trip.
The Brundage Lookout Trail
To the South, you’ll find the Lookout Trail, a half-mile traverse across the summit ridge.
Right now, you’ll find wildflowers blanketing the ridge (and serving as a welcome mat for butterflies and other pollinators).
This trail ends at an active fire lookout, which provides views of the Payette Lakes, Salmon River Mountains and all of Long Valley.
Once you’ve soaked up the sweeping southern exposures, the return trip offers views of the Wallowa and Seven Devil Mountains along with the charming 1914 Fire Lookout quarters.
This is an easy hike and relatively level, but we do recommend you wear closed-toe hiking or athletic shoes as the terrain is rocky.
Hidden Valley Overlook Trail
To the North lies the Hidden Valley Overlook trail. This trail is less than a half-mile each way and delivers a pleasant surprise around every turn.
Craggy rock walls and spectacular vistas are softened by the vibrant hues of wildflowers.
This is an ideal place to relax, reflect, and refresh, as you gaze into the vast wilderness and feel the mountaintop breezes.
Hard to choose? No worries. It doesn’t take too much effort to enjoy BOTH these hikes on a single visit before heading back down the mountain on your return chairlift ride!
Scenic Chairlift Rides are also a great starting point for several lengthier hikes, including the stunning Lakeview Vista Trail.
Scenic Chairlift rides are offered Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 am – 4:30 pm. Learn more.
You can learn more about all of the summer hiking options at Brundage Mountain here.
