Yaak Mtn. Lookout Rental
Kootenai National Forest
Yaak Mountain Lookout rests atop its namesake peak at an elevation of 4,977 feet within the Rocky Mountains in the Kootenai National Forest. The lookout tower has been
used as an observation point for spotting forest fires since 1958.
The lookout is typically open from mid-June through late September. Access is available via primitive roads, and high clearance vehicles are recommended. This rustic
retreat offers a few amenities, but guests will need to bring most of their own gear and supplies.
The lookout sits atop a 45-foot tower and has a catwalk encircling the cabin. It can accommodate up to 4 people and comes equipped with 2 twin beds and 4 mattresses.
Other amenities include a propane stove, heater, lights, table and chairs, fire extinguisher and cleaning gear. An outhouse with vault toilet is located a short distance away.
No electricity or water is available. Guests must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking and washing.
Items such as cooking gear, bedding, lanterns or flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, and towels are not available. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.
Need to Know
- Reservation confirmation letter contains combination to the lock; please call the Ranger District at (406) 295-4693 prior to arrival to confirm the combination
Check-in/check-out is 2:00 pm
- There is no water; guests must provide their own for drinking, cooking and washing
- Please pack out all trash and food and clean cabin before departure
Yaak Mountain Lookout road 4407 is gated, use the combination provided. Follow road 4407 for 5.3 miles to the lookout.
- Access depends on weather conditions
There is a 5 consecutive day stay limit. A break of 7 days is requested before making another reservation.
Be aware, this facility is not cleaned between user visits. It is up to individual renters to bring their own cleaning supplies and clean before and after site use.
- Learn more about the Kootenai National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The lookout is located in the Yaak Area, which features mountainous and heavily forested terrain, as well as several lakes scattered at varying elevations. Guests can
enjoy outstanding views of the town of Troy, especially for 4th of July fireworks, as well as the Kootenai and Yaak River valleys and the surrounding mountains.
Kootenai National Forest supports populations of deer, elk, moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves and mountain lions (bear safety).
A variety of smaller mammals and birds can also be found.
Nearby Attractions
Yaak Falls is a popular destination just a short drive northwest from Yaak Mountain. Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, when the snowmelt finds its way over the falls.
Recreation
Yaak Mountain Road is for non-motorized use only, with the exception of guests who reserve the lookout. Hikers can hike along this road, as well as explore the
remnants of the structures that stood here before the current lookout.
Anglers can fish for rainbow trout in the Kootenai River. The Yaak River and its many tributaries provide habitat for cutthroat, rainbow, brook and bull trout.
Contact Information
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Three Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2 TROY MT 59935-8750
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 406-295-4693
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Troy, Montana, follow Highway 2 west for 3 miles to the East Side Road 176. Follow the East Side Road 176 for 2 miles north to the Kilbrennen Lake Road 2394. Follow Kilbrennen Lake Road 2394 approximately 2 miles to the Yaak Mountain Road 4407.
You will find a gate on this road and need the combination code to enter. Keep gate locked after entry. Follow Road 4407 to the Yaak Mountain Lookout. Total distance from Highway 2 to the lookout gate is 4.15 miles, then 5.3 miles from the gate to the lookout.
Available Campsites
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