About West Fork Butte Lookout
Number of accommodations: 1
Nearby Activities & Attractions
Hiking
Skiing
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Site Details
Reviews (78)
What Guests Are Saying
West Fork Butte Lookout offers an exceptional experience with breathtaking views, well-equipped accommodations, and a cozy atmosphere. Access is straightforward, although winter conditions may require planning for snowmobiles or skis. Guests appreciate the kid-friendly design, clean facilities, and the overall sense of adventure, making it a highly recommended destination.
What Guests Are Saying
West Fork Butte Lookout offers an exceptional experience with breathtaking views, well-equipped accommodations, and a cozy atmosphere. Access is straightforward, although winter conditions may require planning for snowmobiles or skis. Guests appreciate the kid-friendly design, clean facilities, and the overall sense of adventure, making it a highly recommended destination.
Review Summary
STEVE T
VerifiedAugust 27, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Everything worked as laid out in the instructions. The rocky uphill makes this experience worthwhile but tough to carry heavy ice chest etc. A really vintage facility.
STEVE T
VerifiedAugust 27, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Everything worked as laid out in the instructions. The rocky uphill makes this experience worthwhile but tough to carry heavy ice chest etc. A really vintage facility.
Noah B
VerifiedAugust 18, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Great place! The stove and lantern worked perfectly. Fairly well stocked with basic kitchen items and things such as toilet paper and cleaning supplies. Be prepared to hang your food to keep away from critters!
Noah B
VerifiedAugust 18, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Great place! The stove and lantern worked perfectly. Fairly well stocked with basic kitchen items and things such as toilet paper and cleaning supplies. Be prepared to hang your food to keep away from critters!
PAUL E
VerifiedJune 17, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Great way to decompress and have a quiet time!
PAUL E
VerifiedJune 17, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Great way to decompress and have a quiet time!
Tara M
VerifiedMay 13, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
The Recreation.gov website says that the gate leading up to the lookout is closed from fall to early spring but doesn't include exact dates. Unfortunately the gate was not open when we arrived (despite it being spring) and we were unable to trek the 7 miles to the lookout. We have been before in late fall (Oct. 31st) and the gate was open. It would be so helpful if these gate closure dates were included in the description. Apparently the gate opens May 1st for reference.
Tara M
VerifiedMay 13, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
The Recreation.gov website says that the gate leading up to the lookout is closed from fall to early spring but doesn't include exact dates. Unfortunately the gate was not open when we arrived (despite it being spring) and we were unable to trek the 7 miles to the lookout. We have been before in late fall (Oct. 31st) and the gate was open. It would be so helpful if these gate closure dates were included in the description. Apparently the gate opens May 1st for reference.
Stephanie K
VerifiedMay 3, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Gate was locked, we were not prepared to hike in 7 miles.
Stephanie K
VerifiedMay 3, 2021 β’ Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA WEST FORK BUTTE LOOKOUT
Gate was locked, we were not prepared to hike in 7 miles.
Location West Fork Butte Lookout
Address:
24 Fort Missoula Road
Missoula, MT, 59804
United States
From Missoula, travel south on Highway 93 to Lolo. Turn onto Highway 12 and continue west for 17 miles, following Lolo Creek to Forest Road 37. Turn left onto Road 37, and cross the concrete bridge over Lolo Creek. . There are two gates along the route to the lookout. The first is located near the beginning of Forest Road 37 not far from the concrete bridge over Lolo Creek. This gate is open during the summer months, closed in the winter and variable during the spring and fall. The second gate is located roughly 7 miles from the intersection of Forest Road 37 and Highway 12. This gate is always closed and has a lock with the same combination as the lookout. After crossing the concrete bridge over Lolo Creek, continue past the old buildings. The road turns sharply to the left and begins to climb out of the drainage bottom. The first gate is located just after the road turns to the left. Follow Forest Road 37 for approximately 7 miles to the second intersection. Turn a sharp left, open the locked gate using the combination provided by the Missoula Ranger Station and travel through . Close the gate behind you and follow the road a half mile to the lookout.
During the winter and early spring months the gate near the beginning of Forest Road 37 is closed and locked to provide skiing and snowmobiling opportunities and to protect roadbed surfaces during spring break-up conditions. When the gate is locked, visitors can park at the parking area below the gate, and follow the route via snowmobile, skis or foot 7.5 miles to the lookout. Maps are available online or for purchase by calling the Missoula Ranger District.
Latitude & Longitude: 46.7336 / -114.4
Elevation: 1617 feet
Policies & Rules
Arrival & departure
- The lookout is locked; codes for access will be emailed to renters.
- West Fork Butte Road is closed from December 1 to April 30; access requires winter travel methods during this time.
Site capacity
- The maximum group size allowed is 4 people.
Site types & loops
- Camping is not allowed at this facility.
Fires & fuel
- Campfires are not allowed at this facility.
- Firewood may be limited; please conserve while staying.
- Do not transport firewood; obtain it locally to prevent pests.
Pets
- Pets are prohibited on the property.
Wildlife & food storage
- Food and attractants must be secured from wildlife from March 1 to December 31.
Safety & rules
- Familiarize yourself with safety issues, including bears and weather hazards, before reserving.
- Pack out all garbage, food, and personal items after your stay.
Amenities
- Amenities like cleaning supplies and cookware may be available, but not guaranteed; check before your stay.
General
- Learn more about the Lolo National Forest
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: June 4, 2026
