Lupine Shelter

LUPINE SHELTER

Part of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Overview

Lupine Shelter is a picnicking facility open year-round, however it is most heavily visited during the winter, when it is used by snowmobilers as a warming hut. It is an excellent location to have a picnic or a family gathering any time of year.

Facilities

The day-use shelter boasts a beautiful large rock fireplace, lots of window and two tables with chairs inside. Guests are encouraged to clean up after themselves with the provided broom and dust pan.

Additional picnic tables are available outside the shelter. Accessible vault toilets are provided. No drinking water is available, nor is trash collection.

Natural Features

The shelter was built in the early 1990s, as a replica of a Civilian Conservation Corps-style building. It is situated in a grassy meadow surrounded by a forest of mature pine trees at an elevation of 7,600 feet.

In spring and early summer, vivid wildflowers color the meadow. A variety of birds and wildlife make their home in the area.

Recreation

In winter, snowmobiling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular activities in the snow-covered meadow surrounding the shelter.

During the spring, summer and fall, a variety of hiking and mountain biking trails can be found in the area.

Nearby Attractions

The closest town is Wise River, Montana, which is about 25 miles north of the picnic area.

Important Notices

  • No drinking water is available.

  • No garbage service is provided. Please pack out all trash and food from your visit.

  • No overnight camping allowed at this facility. It is for day use only. Overnight campgrounds are nearby on the Pioneer Scenic Byway.

  • Click here for more information on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest
  • Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
  • Each visitor group is responsible for cleaning and disinfecting the cabin. The Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF checks on the cabin intermittently during the reservation season and cannot guarantee the sterilization of facilities or prevention of disease transmission during the COVID-19 pandemic. For the latest on COVID-19 in Montana, please refer to the Governor's Corona Virus Task Force: https://covid19.mt.gov/ 

  • Refer to the Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF webpage to obtain/download Oversnow Vehicle Maps and regulations for the area: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/bdnf/maps-pubs/?cid=stelprdb5187394 

Available Activities

  • WILDLIFE VIEWING - Wildlife Viewing
  • WINTER SPORTS - Snowmobile Trails
  • HIKING - Hiking
  • FISHING - Fishing
  • CAMPING - Camping
  • BIKING - Biking

Directions

From Wise River, Montana, take the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway approximately 25 miles south.

Contact Information

Phone: 406-832-3178

PO BOX 100
WISE RIVER, MT 59762

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery