This retired forestry lookout, now turned into an interpretive site managed by the village of Kaslo, along with the trail, is worthy of visiting. Some 1300m directly above Kaslo, this scenic wonder provides an exceptional view of Kootenay Lake and the Purcell Mountains.
It is also a popular spot for hang gliding enthusiasts, who can enjoy a long and beautiful sail down to Kaslo. A special takeoff ramp has been constructed just below the summit by the Kaslo Hang Gliding Club.
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation gain: Nil
Key elevations: Lookout 1909m (6263′), Ridge to NW 2256m (7400′)
Distance: 1.6 km one-way
Time: 45 minutes
Season: June to October
Access: Easy
Map: 82F/15 Kaslo
Drive: From Kaslo, drive 9.2km west on Hwy 31A to the signed Buchanan Lookout Road on the right. It leads 11.6km to the lookout. Park a kilometre or so before you reach the top and walk to the lookout along the narrow flower-studded road.
If the interpretive lookout is open, visit it and experience the history of the lookout and its operation. The pleasant loop trail begins just below the summit near the hang gliding ramp and picnic tables. Descend the trail to the east and follow it through the varied forest. About halfway, the viewpoint comes into sight. Enjoy the panorama. The trail slowly winds back up to the area below the lookout. Allow several hours to enjoy the site.
What to do?
2.5 km back along the road from the outlook, take a road to the right (east), drive for 500m and park. Follow the ridge in a northwesterly direction enjoying the wildflowers and wildlife. The road stops near the summit of a rather steep ridge (2256m 7400′). Continue..
Kaslo to Buchanan Lookout
Start at the Hwy 31 end of the Buchanan Fire Access Trail. In 2 hours, reach the bottom of the “Monster”, a mountain biking trail that drops 4000′ from the top of the lookout. It is not a hiking trail, but a fall line downhill with no switchbacks, just lots of ramps and jumps. It is a C3/D3 as bits are extremely steep – and they go down this on a bicycle! It showed little mountain bike use – either a sign of self-preservation or that they were air-born most of the time.
It is 2.5-3 hours to the summit lookout and its great views. Descend the same way but continue down past the Access trail to join the Wagon Road Trail in 2 hours. 20kms, 8 hours, and 4500′ elevation change.