Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout - Bozeman

Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout sits on the apex of Garnet Mountain south of Bozeman. It is the only fire lookout for rent on the Gallatin National Forest and offers outstanding views of the surrounding mountain landscape.

Access is by foot, ATV, ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile. It is a strenuous 2,800 foot elevation gain to the lookout via Trail 85. In the summer distance is between 3-4 miles depending on route chosen. In the winter it can be up to 10 miles depending on weather conditions.

Water must be packed in and there is no electricity. Capacity is 4 people. There is a woodstove and the Forest Service supplies the firewood.

Price is $30 per night and can be reserved from 1 to 5 nights. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance online. Last minute reservations (up to 3 nights in advance) are available by calling or going to the Bozeman Ranger Station (406) 522-2520.

Mailing Address
Not Available

Street Address

Phone: 406-522-2520
Fax: 406-522-2528

From the Bozeman Ranger Station, head west on Huffine Lane for approximately four miles until you reach the intersection of Huffine, Hwy 191, Hwy 84, and Jackrabbit Lane (Four Corners). Turn left at the stop light and proceed 18 miles on Highway 191 until you reach Storm Castle Creek Road #132 (formerly known as Squaw Creek). Turn left. After you cross the bridge turn right at the T intersection. Do not turn off the main road as you pass the helibase. Two trails access the lookout: Summer Shortcut: The trailhead for the 3.5 mile Garnet Mountain Lookout Trail #85 is approximately 1.5 miles up the Storm Castle Creek Road. Park in the parking lot on the left side of the road. Take the trail south and cross Storm Castle Creek at the bridge. Due to avalanche hazards this trail is not recommended during winter months. The Rat Lake access: Travel about 5 miles up Storm Castle Creek to the Rat Lake Road #3112. Turn right when the road splits. Follow the road up approximately 1 mile to the trailhead parking area below Rat Lake. Look for the 3 big boulders. You will encounter Rat Lake after approximately .5 mile. The trail follows the east/left side of the lake. The lookout is 4 miles up old logging roads and trails from the end of the road. During winter months you must park near Shenango Ranger Station and ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile 10 miles to the lookout via the Storm Castle Creek and Rat Lake Roads.

Season
All Year

Hours
Not Available

Payments
Not Available

Reservations
reservations required, walk-ins welcome

Not Available