Overview

Monument Peak Lookout, built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps perched atop Monument Peak, offers guests a rustic room with a spectacular 360-degree view of the Little Belt Mountains. The lookout was once used to spot forest fires, however, has been unused since the 1970’s. In 1999, the lookout was removed from its 50-foot pole, restored and placed on a short, solid foundation for public rental use. A high clearance vehicle is recommended as the four miles of road leading up to the cabin is rough and rocky. During wet conditions the entire road can become muddy and slippery. Monument Peak Lookout is available for rental between June 15 and October 31.

Facilities

The rustic lookout has two beds with mattresses, two propane lanterns, a table, chairs, and a propane cooking stove. Pots, pans, dishes and utensils are included but limited. A pit toilet is about 100 feet from the structure. No water, electricity, or plumbing are available. Recommended items to bring include drinking water, bedding, flashlights, food, small propane canisters, firewood, matches, and a cooler.

Natural Features

The lookout sits at 7,395 feet in elevation and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The region is a coniferous forest with fir, spruce, and pine trees. Many miles of creeks nearby. Native wildlife includes bears, mule-deer, white-tailed deer, elk, bald eagles, mountain lions, and many others!

Recreation

Hiking, OHV recreation, and wildlife viewing are just some of the many recreation opportunities! Start your hike from Monument Peak Lookout which can connect you to many of the trails in the area, can even hike to Tenderfoot Creek. Hunting for small or large game in the area.

Important Notices

• The cabin sleeps two people, however, two additional tents are allowed at the site (accommodating another four people). The whole facility can only provide enough room and service for six people total. Exceeding this limit is grounds for eviction without refund.
• No water, electricity or plumbing available
• Bring firewood; although there is some firewood in the area if visitors are willing to gather it

• Clean lookout and grounds prior to departure; a fee may be charged if additional clean-up is needed. Check out time 11:00 AM.

• Road to the lookout is rough the last 4 miles; a high clearance vehicle is recommended

• In winter Monument Peak Lookout is not open, however can camp outside or recreate for the day at the site and access will be either by snowmobile, cross country skiing, or snowshoeing; trail is not groomed

• Window shutters are heavy and usually require two people to open and lock in place; hardhats are available for safety purposes while opening the shutters
• Flies are abundant; visitors may need to sweep up dead flies upon arrival
• Pets are not allowed in the cabin at any time, but can be kept outside in a kennel or on a six-foot or less leash. Users are responsible for removing all pet food and droppings from rental site prior to departure.
• 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.

Available Activities

• Photography - Photography
• Hunting - Hunting
• Camping - Camping
• Mountain Biking - Mountain Biking
• Backpacking - Backpacking
• Hiking - Hiking

Directions

From Great Falls, go east on U.S. Highway 87/89 about 22 miles (just past Belt) and turn right (south) at the rest area onto U.S. Highway 89 (heading toward Monarch and Neihart). Go about 9.5 miles and turn right on County Road 340. Drive 8 miles to the junction with Road 349 and turn left (south), then drive 4.3 miles to Forest Road 839 and turn right (south). Go 8.5 miles and turn right on Road 268. Drive 3.5 miles to the lookout. <br /><br /> Snowmobiles, cross-country skis or snowshoes are required for access during most of the winter.

Contact Information

Phone: 406-632-4391

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip