About LUPINE SHELTER
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.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. 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. Nearby Attractions The closest town is Wise River, Montana, which is about 25 miles north of the picnic area.
How to Get There
From Wise River, Montana, take the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway approximately 25 miles south.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to LUPINE SHELTER
Heading to LUPINE SHELTER? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for LUPINE SHELTER?
No central reservation system listed for LUPINE SHELTER. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234354) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to LUPINE SHELTER?
From Wise River, Montana, take the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway approximately 25 miles south.
How do I contact LUPINE SHELTER?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-832-3178.
References & Official Resources
