Experience Glacier Country from a different perspective with an overnight stay in one of Western Montana’s historic lookout towers. Perched high above forests and mountain valleys, these rustic cabins offer panoramic views, peaceful solitude and unforgettable opportunities for wildlife watching, stargazing and sunrise and sunset photography.
Built by the U.S. Forest Service to spot wildfires, some lookout towers also provide one-of-a-kind overnight accommodations from late spring through fall, with a few remaining open during portions of the winter. Most rentals are modest—around 200 square feet—and sleep up to four guests. Cabins typically include a stove for heat, propane or firewood, and an outhouse, though amenities vary by location.
Staying in a lookout is part of the adventure. Guests should plan to bring water, food, sleeping bags or bedding, cooking supplies, warm clothing, first-aid essentials and other personal gear. Many lookouts do not have electricity or reliable cell service, and some require a hike from the parking area. Before your visit, review the cabin amenities, access information and “Know Before You Go” details to ensure you’re prepared.
HORNET LOOKOUT
Near Columbia Falls, Hornet Lookout offers sweeping views of Glacier National Park and Kintla Lake. In late spring and early summer, hillsides bloom with beargrass, while clear nights provide exceptional stargazing and, on occasion, views of the northern lights.
MISSION LOOKOUT
Located near Swan Lake in the Seeley Swan Corridor, Mission Lookout overlooks the Flathead National Forest, the Swan Range, the Mission Mountains and Swan Lake. Nearby hiking, mountain biking, fishing and swimming opportunities make it an ideal base for outdoor recreation. Birders will also enjoy exploring nearby Swan Lake National Wildlife Refuge during seasonal waterfowl and shorebird migrations.
MEDICINE POINT LOOKOUT
High above the Bitterroot Valley, Medicine Point Lookout rewards adventurous visitors with expansive views overlooking the Bitterroot River and surrounding mountains. At 8,409 feet, it is one of the region’s highest lookout towers and is reached by a challenging 3.5-mile hike that gains approximately 2,000 feet in elevation.
GARVER MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
In the remote Yaak region near Troy, Garver Mountain Lookout sits along the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. The surrounding landscape offers excellent hiking, quiet backcountry exploration and nearby streams for fly-fishing.
GEM PEAK LOOKOUT
Near Noxon in the Clark Fork Corridor, Gem Peak Lookout provides access to more than 400 miles of trails in the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness. Fall is an especially scenic time to visit, when western larch and aspen turn brilliant shades of gold. The area is also known for alpine lakes, expansive mountain views and seasonal huckleberry picking.
MORE LOOKOUT TOWER RENTALS
Glacier Country is home to many more historic lookout towers, each offering its own unique setting and mountain views.
Please note: We ask that all our visitors and residents recreate responsibly by being mindful of the following: know before you go; plan ahead; play it safe; leave no trace; tread lightly; and help build an inclusive outdoors.
Updated August 26, 2026
March 4, 2020
Related: Bitterroot Valley, Clark Fork Corridor, Columbia Falls, Family Fun, GNP Surrounding Area, Hiking, Northwest Corridor, Noxon, Outdoor Fun, Seeley-Swan Corridor, Stay, Summer Fun, Swan Lake, Troy, Vacation, Wildlife
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