Overview
Sherlock Peak rises to 6,780 feet in the Kettle Range within Colville National Forest, reached by a moderate 2.5-mile trail that provides one of the more rewarding viewpoints in the southern forest without requiring a full-day effort. The summit carries a historic fire lookout building from the 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps era, one of dozens of lookouts built across the national forests during that period. The CCC constructed more than 800 fire lookout towers and cabins across the Pacific Northwest forests during the New Deal years, and Sherlock Peak's lookout represents one of the intact survivors of that era. Many have been lost to fire, neglect, or removal, making the Sherlock Peak building a meaningful piece of forest history.
Views from the summit take in the Columbia River valley and Lake Roosevelt (Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake, the reservoir behind Grand Coulee Dam) to the west, the Colville Valley to the south, and the Kettle Crest ridgeline to the north. The lake view is distinctive from this angle: it is one of the longer arms of the reservoir, visible as a blue slash through the forested plateau below. Grand Coulee Dam itself is not visible from the summit, but the extent of the reservoir created by the dam is apparent in the way the blue water traces the old river channel for miles.
The Route
Trailhead to Lower Forest (Mile 0 to 1.2)
From Forest Road 2053, the trail climbs through western larch and ponderosa pine on a consistent and moderate grade. The lower section has good trail tread with enough shade from the pine canopy to keep the approach cooler than the open summit zone. The western larch is most dense in this lower section, making it the prime zone for fall color in late September.
Upper Slope to Summit (Mile 1.2 to 2.5)
The trail steepens and the larch thins toward the open summit. Rocky sections begin around mile 2.0. The lookout building appears at the summit, perched on the high point of the rock. The structure is weathered but retains the characteristic design of 1930s USFS lookouts: a small cabin with a catwalk around the base and windows facing all directions. The views from the lookout base are clear in all directions, with the Columbia River valley particularly prominent to the west and the Kettle Crest ridgeline defining the northern skyline.
Return via the same route.
When to Hike
Late June through October is the primary season. The trail typically clears by late June depending on snowpack.
Late September to October is excellent for the larch fall color on the lower approach section. The contrast between the gold needles and the dark rock on the upper slope is a particularly appealing composition. Snow is possible on the upper section in October, so checking conditions before a fall visit is worthwhile.
August mornings provide the clearest views of Lake Roosevelt before afternoon haze builds in the Columbia River basin. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible in July and August; starting early allows a descent before weather develops on the summit.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 1.5 to 2 liters of water. No water is available on this trail; carry the full supply from home or the staging area. Individual needs vary.
Wind is often present on the exposed summit even on calm days below. A light wind layer packs easily and makes the summit stay more comfortable. Sun protection is worth considering on the open upper slope.
Trailhead Access
Forest Road 2053 off Highway 20 east of Kettle Falls. The turn from Highway 20 is signed. Gravel road, accessible by standard vehicles in dry conditions. No permit or fee required (as of 2026). No restrooms at the trailhead. The nearest full services are in Kettle Falls, approximately 12 miles to the west.
Nearby
The Kettle Crest North Trail at Sherman Pass is within 15 miles for those extending into a full ridgeline day on the main Kettle Crest. The Grassy Top Lookout Trail provides a similar summit lookout experience on the southern crest for a second-day objective.
Check current conditions at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Practice Leave No Trace 7 Principles.