🧯 Clark Butte Lookout
Helena National Forest · Helena Ranger District
Opens next month
🏛️ Historic structure 1952
🏔️ 7,200 ft
Views of the Continental Divide, Helena Valley, and Missouri River breaks to the east. Electric provided via solar.
Unknown access conditions today
Based on season, weather, wind, and snow. Scores update every 30 minutes.
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Access
🚗 Drive-to
High-clearance 4WD
🛣️ Access road
Forest Rd 138, 22 miles from Helena
📅 Season
June 15 – October 1
Road distance from town: ~22.0 mi unpaved
Booking
Helena proximity means moderate competition. Books within a week of window opening.
Booking window: 6 months rolling via recreation.gov
🎫 Reserve on recreation.gov →
PeakScout availability data may be delayed — always verify on recreation.gov before making plans.
Amenities & Gear
👥 Capacity:
Up to 4 people
🛏️ Beds:1 double + 2 cots
🔥 Heating:Wood stove + electric
🍳 Cooking:Propane stove (provided)
💧 Water:None — carry water
🚽 Privy:
Yes
📞 Phone:
📱 Limited cell (check coverage)
🏗️ Structure:L-4 cab on 30-foot steel tower (1952)
⚠️ Bring your own water unless a reliable source is confirmed with the ranger district. Most MT lookouts have no water or unreliable cisterns.
🐻 Wildlife
Black bear and mountain lion. Rattlesnakes at lower elevation on access road.
ℹ️ Notes
Solar electric provides minimal power (phone charging, small LED). Best views at sunset toward Helena.
⛑️ Before you go
✅ Check road conditions with the ranger district 24–48h before departure ·
✅ Carry bear spray and know how to use it ·
✅ Pack all water (no water at this site) ·
✅ Leave a trip plan with someone not going ·
✅ Bring a satellite communicator — no cell service at this location ·
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