Monument Peak Lookout

Show on map406-632-4391
809 2ND ST. NW
HARLOWTON, MT 59036

Overview

Monument Peak Lookout, built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps perched atop Monument Peak, offers guests a rustic room with a spectacular 360-degree view of the Little Belt Mountains. The lookout was once used to spot forest fires, however, has been unused since the 1970’s. 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 two miles of road leading up to the cabin is rough and rocky. During wet conditions the entire road can become muddy and slippery. Monument Peak Lookout is available for rental between June 1 and November 30 and closed the rest of the year.

Recreation

Hiking, OHV recreation, and wildlife viewing are just some of the many recreation opportunities! Hunting for small or large game in the area.

Facilities

The rustic lookout has two beds with mattresses, two propane lanterns, a table, chairs, and a propane cooking stove. Pots, pans, dishes and utensils are included but limited. A vault toilet is about 100 feet from the structure. No water, electricity, or plumbing are available. Recommended items to bring include drinking water, bedding, flashlights, food, small propane canisters, firewood, matches, and a cooler.

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 many others!

Camp site features

Across 1 camp site:

  • Largest party: 2 people

Directions

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.

Stay Limit

Check in from 2 PM, check out by 2 PM.

Reviews

17 reviews
5 stars
11
4 stars
5
2 stars
1
Paul N
Loop:Area Monument Peak Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a month ago
The road to Monument Peak is rocky and slowgoing - make sure your bring a high clearance vehicle and fuel up. We visited in early September when there were no flies but it did get quite chilly after sunset.
Jeff H
Loop:Area Monument Peak Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 3 months ago
It was everything I expected. Isolated, quiet and the view spectacular. The deer are a very daring when the sun goes down. Guard your smores'. The only thing I missed was the U.S. Forest Service fire grate, but the fire pit is still very functional. I would highly recommend a stay here.
monique r
Loop:Area Monument Peak Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
Just went up for 1 night and the comments regarding the road are correct.; bring firewood or a chainsaw and ax to gather from the area. It was perfect when we got there, not a person to be seen. The Northern Lights weren't even forecasted to be around. No flies for us but you can tell they are an issue in the height of summer.
Neil F
Loop:Area Monument Peak Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 2 years ago
Was a lot of fun! Had deer visiting every night, the views were spectacular! Had to stoke the fire every 3 hours, so bring a way to cut firewood. It was peaceful being up there in Oct. very few ppl. The bad- There’s fly poo/pee all over the mattress, mice chewed a pathway under the door, and drop in for a visit now and then.. But, you can’t have a “pet” inside the box built in 1938. (Flys and mice don’t want the competition.)Besides having to leave your pets at home, OR sleep in the truck, the very disgusting beds (bring a blanket to lay over, I would plastic then blanket, but u do u) It was a lot of fun. Seriously tho.. “no pets”? 😂
Toni C
Loop:Area Monument Peak Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 2 years ago
Unfortunately we were unable to stay the night due to the weather, but we were able to go up the next morning and it was beautiful! I am glad we still went up. The place is well kept and mostly clean besides the MILLION of dead flies. I read the reviews before our visit and thought people might be exaggerating, they are not. We had to sweep the floor and all surfaces before settling in. The area is so peaceful and pretty. The last couple of miles up require 4 wheel drive. Worth the visit!
Alyssa G
Loop:Area Monument Peak Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 3 years ago
This place was great and clean. The views were awesome. The last 4-5 miles of the road is very slow and rocky. DO NOT use the directions on the website. Copy and paste and latitude/longitude to your maps and it will take you right to it.
Availability

See the Camp Sites section below to find detailed booking availability.

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Season dates

Peak season

Jun 15, 2027 – Oct 31, 2027

Reservable online

Peak season

Jun 15, 2028 – Oct 31, 2028

Reservable online

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