Camp Observer
1 of 8 photos
West Fork Butte Lookout
Directions
From Missoula, travel south on Highway 93 to Lolo. Turn onto Highway 12 and
continue west for 17 miles, following Lolo Creek to Forest Road 37. Turn left
onto Road 37, and cross the concrete bridge over Lolo Creek. . There are two
gates along the route to the lookout. The first is located near the beginning
of Forest Road 37 not far from the concrete bridge over Lolo Creek. This gate
is open during the summer months, closed in the winter and variable during the
spring and fall. The second gate is located roughly 7 miles from the
intersection of Forest Road 37 and Highway 12. This gate is always closed and
has a lock with the same combination as the lookout. After crossing the
concrete bridge over Lolo Creek, continue past the old buildings. The road
turns sharply to the left and begins to climb out of the drainage bottom. The
first gate is located just after the road turns to the left. Follow Forest
Road 37 for approximately 7 miles to the second intersection. Turn a sharp
left, open the locked gate using the combination provided by the Missoula
Ranger Station and travel through . Close the gate behind you and follow the
road a half mile to the lookout.
During the winter and early spring months the gate near the beginning of
Forest Road 37 is closed and locked to provide skiing and snowmobiling
opportunities and to protect roadbed surfaces during spring break-up
conditions. When the gate is locked, visitors can park at the parking area
below the gate, and follow the route via snowmobile, skis or foot 7.5 miles to
the lookout. Maps are available online or for purchase by calling the Missoula
Ranger District.
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