Big Hole Lookout (MT) Near Plains, MT

About Big Hole Lookout (MT)

The Big Hole Lookout offers guests an opportunity to experience an old-time Forest Service lookout. The tower commands an impressive 360 degree view of valleys and mountain ranges for miles and miles. The structure is small and is not elevated like many other lookouts, and is available for rent from June to early October each year. 2021 is the first year the lookout will be available to the public to rent. We are excited to offer this new, unique opportunity on the Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District. The lookout can be accessed on the Big Hole Lookout Trail by foot, horse or bicycle for 3 mi, one way, on a easy to moderate trail. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. From Plains, Montana plan on at least a 60 - 90 minute drive to the Big Hole Lookout Trailhead on a steep and winding road.

Activities & Attractions

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Cycling

Year-round

Hiking

Year-round

Horseback Riding

Year-round

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season

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Currently closed

Campground Amenities

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Big Hole Lookout, Loop: Big Hole Lookout

✨ Hut

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Reviews (22)

Verified Only

What Guests Are Saying

Big Hole Lookout offers a stunning location with well-preserved facilities and abundant wildlife, making it a memorable experience for visitors. The hike is manageable, and the views, especially at sunset and sunrise, are breathtaking. However, some guests noted issues like leftover dog food attracting rodents and recommended following website directions for the best access.

What Guests Are Saying

Review Summary

5.0

22 reviews

100.0%

0.0%

jeff k

Verified

September 28, 2021 • Stayed at: Big Hole Lookout, Loop: Big Hole Lookout

Awesome Renovation of the lookout! The trail was easy to find and the solitude was worth the climb to the lookout. Plenty of supplies for cooking and cleaning in the lookout. Plenty of extra cots, axe, splitting maul, etc. Make sure to be Bear Aware while on the trail, came across a Black bear on the way in and out. Plenty of other wildlife as well! Thank you Backcountry Horsemen for all your hard work at maintenance of this great lookout

Fiona L

Verified

August 10, 2021 • Stayed at: Big Hole Lookout, Loop: Big Hole Lookout

Incredible spot. The recent restoration is gorgeous and all visitors have keep this place incredibly tidy. There is a lot of love for this spot. We visited when the Montana skies were pretty smoky, so didn't get to enjoy the panoramic views. But there are plenty of huckleberries to pick and trails to hike around.

Location & Directions for Big Hole Lookout (MT)

Po Box 429, Plains, MT 59859 United States

Elevation: 2,071 ft

Map of Big Hole Lookout (MT) location at Plains, MT, United States

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Getting There

<p>From Plains, Montana travel northwest on Highway 200 for approximately 7.5 mi to Weeksville Creek Road (FR 887). From Thompson Falls, Montana travel southeast on Highway 200 for approximately 17.5 mi to Weeksville Creek Road (FR 887). Turn no...

Nearest town

Plains, MT - 46 mi

About over 1 hr (93 min) to downtown

Highway access

Big Hole Lookout is accessible via Highway 200, which is approximately 7.5 miles from Plains and 17.5 miles from Thompson Falls.

Policies & Rules

General

Guests must hike, ride a horse, or bicycle 3 miles from the parking area to the lookout.
This facility is located in a remote area; before making a reservation, become aware of bear, water, and weather safety.
All garbage, food and personal belongings must be packed out.
Water is not available on-site. There is a spring 3/4 mile downhill from the lookout with non-potable water.
The lookout remains locked; a key code will be sent to you in your reservation confirmation.
Maximum stay limit is 3 nights per reservation.  
Learn more about the Lolo National Forest at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/lolo
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.
There is some cell service at the lookout.

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