Overview Monument Peak Lookout offers guests an impressive yet rustic room with a view. The lookout, built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is perched atop Monument Peak, boasting spectacular 360 degree views of the Little Belt Mountains. The lookout was once used to spot forest fires but was left unused sin…
Overview Monument Peak Lookout offers guests an impressive yet rustic room with a view. The lookout, built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is perched atop Monument Peak, boasting spectacular 360 degree views of the Little Belt Mountains. The lookout was once used to spot forest fires but was left unused since the 1970s. 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 2 miles of road leading up to the cabin are rough and rocky. During wet conditions the entie road may be muddy and often times slippery. The Lookout/Cabin is avaialble for rental between June 1 and Novemebr 30 and is closed for the remainder of the year .Recreation Small and big game hunting is popular in the area. Hiking, OHVing and wildlife viewing are also enjoyed. Facilities The rustic lookout has two beds with mattresses, two propane lanterns, a table and chairs and a propane cooking stove. Pots, pans, dishes and utensils are included but are limited. A vault toilet is about 100 feet from the structure. No water, electricity or plumbing is available. Recommended items to bring include drinking water, bedding, flashlights, food, small propane canisters, firewood, matches and a cooler. ( Click here ) for more cabin details.Natural Features The lookout sits at 7,395 feet in elevation, offering views of Monument Ridge and Strawberry Ridge. The surrounding region is a dense coniferous forest with fir, spruce and pine trees. Lewis and Clark National Forest has many miles of streams and fishing opportunities. Native wildlife includes black bears, mule-deer, white-tailed deer, elk, bald eagles, mountain lions and other species.
Photos
Fireplace inside the lookout — USFSInside view of the lookout — USFS
How to Get There
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. Snowmobiles, cross-country skis or snowshoes are required for access during most of the winter.
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 MONUMENT PEAK LOOKOUT
Heading to MONUMENT PEAK LOOKOUT? 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 MONUMENT PEAK LOOKOUT?
No central reservation system listed for MONUMENT PEAK LOOKOUT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234428) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MONUMENT PEAK LOOKOUT?
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 …
