West Fork Butte Lookout

For those of us in Montana who cherish the rugged beauty of our mountains and the profound solitude of the backcountry, a stay at a fire lookout offers an unparalleled experience. The West Fork Butte Lookout, nestled in the Lolo National Forest near Missoula, MT, is not just a place to stay; it's a journey into a unique piece of Montana's history and natural grandeur. Unlike traditional campgrounds, this is a meticulously maintained cabin – a former fire lookout – that provides a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the wilderness with incredible views that truly connect you to Big Sky Country. It’s a spot that consistently leaves visitors in awe, offering a blend of rustic charm and breathtaking panoramas.

Visitors describe West Fork Butte Lookout as a "beautiful spot" with "amazing views from inside." This unique characteristic of being able to enjoy panoramic vistas from the comfort of the cabin sets it apart. Imagine watching the sunrise paint the Bitterroot Mountains with vibrant colors or seeing the vast Lolo Creek drainage unfold beneath you, all from the warmth of a cozy, wood-heated space. This is the kind of authentic Montana experience that resonates deeply with locals seeking both adventure and tranquility. The sense of peace and isolation, combined with the historical significance of the lookout, makes it a truly special destination.

While it offers modern conveniences like a propane stove and lantern, the essence of West Fork Butte Lookout lies in its connection to the wild. It's a place where you're encouraged to "pack it in, pack it out," reinforcing the responsible outdoor ethics that are fundamental to Montanan living. The potential for wildlife encounters, from chipmunks to the intriguing possibility of larger animals, adds to the thrill of this wilderness retreat. For anyone in Montana looking for a memorable, unique, and truly scenic escape, West Fork Butte Lookout provides an experience that is both invigorating and deeply restorative.

West Fork Butte Lookout is located within the Lolo National Forest, with its administrative address at BUILDING, 24 Fort Missoula Rd, Missoula, MT 59804, USA. However, it's crucial to understand that this physical address is for the managing office, not the lookout itself. The lookout is situated on a rocky knob at approximately 6,157 feet elevation, offering near-360-degree views of Lolo Peak, the Bitterroot Mountains, and the Lolo Creek drainage. It's close to the Montana-Idaho border and Lolo Pass.

Accessing West Fork Butte Lookout is an adventure in itself and varies significantly by season. From Lolo, Montana, you drive 17 miles west on U.S. Highway 12, then turn left (south) onto West Fork Butte Road #37. You follow Forest Road #37 for approximately 6.9 miles to a second junction, where you take a sharp left (north) and look for the West Fork Butte Lookout road sign and gate.

During the summer months, vehicle access is generally available, though the last quarter mile of the road to the cabin is typically gated off. This requires a "super easy walk," as one visitor noted, making it accessible for families, though bringing a wagon to haul gear, especially with young children, is a smart tip. This gate has a lock with the same combination as the lookout.

However, winter access is much more challenging. The gate at the beginning of Forest Road #37 (near the concrete bridge over Lolo Creek) is closed from December 1 to April 30 each year, and often variably during spring and fall to protect road surfaces. When this gate is locked, visitors must hike, ski, or snowmobile approximately 7.5 miles to reach the lookout. The trek involves a "very steep 7 miles with 2,310 feet of elevation gain" if skiing, making it a skill-based endeavor. Visitors planning a winter trip should be prepared for a strenuous journey and consider a snowmobile for easier access, even bringing extra wood if possible for those using leg power. The remote nature and varied accessibility ensure that the lookout maintains its secluded charm.

• Overnight Accommodations: The lookout can sleep up to four people and is equipped with bunk beds and mattress pads. Guests should bring their own bed linens or sleeping bags.
• Propane Cooking Stove & Lantern: A propane cook stove and a propane-powered lantern are provided inside the cabin for cooking and illumination. The propane tank is located in a shed below the cabin and needs to be turned on.
• Wood Burning Stove: A wood-burning stove is available for heat, with kindling and firewood provided in a shed near the outhouse. However, it's wise to bring extra if visiting in cold weather.
• Basic Kitchen Utensils: The cabin is equipped with some kitchen utensils, including silverware, pots, pans, and dishes, though their availability is not always guaranteed. Bringing your own is recommended.
• Vault Toilet/Outhouse: A vault toilet is provided at the bottom of the hill, approximately 500 feet away from the cabin. It’s noted for its "best view of any bathroom."
• Cleaning Supplies: Basic cleaning supplies (broom, dustpan, bucket, mop) are generally available, but bringing extra like paper towels and spray is recommended as it's a "pack it in, pack it out" facility.
• Games: Some games may be left by previous visitors, adding a touch of entertainment to your stay.
• No Potable Water: Visitors must bring their own drinking water for consumption, cooking, and cleaning purposes.

• Near-360-Degree Views: The most striking feature is the absolutely amazing, near-360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, including Lolo Peak, the Bitterroot Mountains, and the Lolo Creek drainage. These views are accessible even from inside the cabin, though some shutters may reduce this during certain times.
• Historic Fire Lookout: Staying in a restored fire lookout provides a unique historical experience, connecting visitors to Montana's past in fire detection and forest management.
• Clean and Well-Kept: Despite its remote location, the lookout is consistently described as "clean and well kept," reflecting the care put into maintaining this unique rental.
• Cozy Wood Stove: The presence of a wood-burning stove with provided firewood ensures a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially during colder months, making it a true refuge in the wilderness.
• Propane Appliances: A propane cook stove and lantern offer convenient cooking and lighting options, balancing the rustic experience with essential comforts.
• Abundant Wildlife: The area is home to elk, moose, deer, and black bears. While one review mentioned only chipmunks, the potential for spotting larger animals adds an exciting element to the stay.
• Secluded & Peaceful: The varying accessibility and remote location contribute to a highly secluded and peaceful environment, perfect for those seeking solitude away from crowds.
• Hiking Opportunities: Numerous hiking trails are available in the surrounding Lolo National Forest, offering opportunities for exploration directly from the lookout.
• Winter Sports Access: In winter, the 7.5-mile road becomes ideal for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, providing unique cold-weather recreational opportunities.
• Unique Outhouse View: Even the outhouse is a highlight, offering "the best view of any bathroom I have ever been in," making even basic necessities a memorable experience.

West Fork Butte Lookout is a unique rental cabin managed by the Lolo National Forest. While its physical address is associated with Missoula, MT, inquiries should be directed to the Missoula Ranger District, which oversees this specific rental.

Address: BUILDING, 24 Fort Missoula Rd, Missoula, MT 59804, USA (This is the administrative office address).

For reservations and detailed information about the West Fork Butte Lookout, including gate status, road conditions, amenities, and any seasonal restrictions, it is essential to contact the managing ranger district.

Phone: (406) 329-3814

Mobile Phone: +1 406-329-3814

Reservations for the lookout are typically required and can often be made through Recreation.gov or by calling the Forest Service directly. It is highly advisable for Montanans planning a trip to call this number well in advance, especially to confirm road access (as it changes seasonally), gate codes, and what specific amenities are currently available. Given the remote nature of the lookout and the variable accessibility, direct communication with the Forest Service is crucial for a safe and enjoyable stay. They can also provide up-to-date information on fire restrictions, bear activity, and recommended supplies to bring for your visit to this incredible Montana destination.

For those of us who live in Montana, West Fork Butte Lookout isn't just a place to spend a night; it’s an immersive experience that resonates deeply with our appreciation for rugged beauty, solitude, and a touch of historical adventure. We understand that the most rewarding experiences often require a bit of effort, and the variable access, from a short walk in summer to a challenging ski or snowmobile trek in winter, is simply part of the unique charm. This type of "earned" access speaks to the independent spirit that defines many Montanans.

The "amazing views from inside" and the near-360-degree panoramas of the Bitterroot Mountains are precisely what we seek in a mountain escape. Waking up to such vistas, with the warmth of a wood-burning stove on a crisp morning, encapsulates the essence of what it means to truly experience Big Sky Country. The fact that it's a clean, well-kept, and operational fire lookout adds a layer of history and unique character that sets it apart from a standard campground. It’s a chance to step into the shoes of those who once protected our forests, all while surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.

While the mention of a distant outhouse or the possibility of growls might give some pause, for many Montanans, these elements simply add to the authentic wilderness experience. We are accustomed to being self-reliant and prepared for the wild, understanding that such remote beauty comes with its own set of considerations. The availability of amenities like a propane stove and provided firewood balances the rustic nature, making it a comfortable yet adventurous retreat.

In essence, West Fork Butte Lookout is perfectly suited for Montanans because it offers an authentic, challenging, and profoundly rewarding outdoor adventure. It’s a place to disconnect from the noise of modern life and reconnect with the raw, untamed spirit of our state. It's not just a cabin; it's a gateway to experiencing the grandeur of our mountains in a way that truly captures the heart of what makes Montana so special. It's a local secret, shared with a sense of pride, for those who truly appreciate the wild and beautiful places we call home.

West Fork Butte Lookout

BUILDING, 24 Fort Missoula Rd, Missoula, MT 59804, USA