SHAFER BUTTE LOOKOUT LOOP AT BOGUS BASIN
For a nice almost-fall hike, look no further than Shafer Butte. I would recommend the 4 mile Lookout Loop. I did this hike with my dog in September as the leaves began to change, and the yellow and orange colors made the view from the lookout even more spectacular. The trailhead starts at the Pioneer lodge, which is towards the back of the Bogus Basin ski area. This is also a popular area for mountain bikers so just be alert. The trail climbs about 950 feet in elevation and most of that is done in a 1 mile stretch. Other than that steep ascent to the chairlift area, this is a pretty easy hike.
Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.