🧯 Twin Buttes Lookout
Flathead National Forest · Swan Lake Ranger District
Opens in ~2 months
🏛️ Historic structure 1957
🏔️ 6,900 ft
Perched atop a ridge overlooking the Swan Valley and Mission Mountains. 360-degree views of Flathead Lake, the Swan Range, and the Rocky Mountain Front. One of Montana's most sought-after rentals.
Unknown access conditions today
Based on season, weather, wind, and snow. Scores update every 30 minutes.
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Access
🥾 Hike-in required
0.50 mi · 200 ft gain
🛣️ Access road
Forest Rd 116 off MT-83, 12 miles unpaved
📅 Season
July 1 – September 30
Road distance from town: ~12.0 mi unpaved
Booking
Books 6 months in advance. One of MT most booked lookouts.
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 bed + 1 cot
🔥 Heating:Wood stove
🍳 Cooking:Propane stove (2-burner)
💧 Water:None — carry minimum 2 gallons/person/day
🚽 Privy:
Yes
📞 Phone:
None — satellite recommended
🏗️ Structure:L-4 cab on 41-foot steel tower (1957)
⚠️ 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 habitat. Bear canister required. Occasional moose on approach road.
ℹ️ Notes
Lightning risk extremely high — do not remain in cab during direct storm approach. Emergency exit procedure posted inside.
⛑️ 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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