Montana / Powder River County / Custer Gallatin National Forest

Diamond Butte Lookout

Open — Currently open for rentals from October through May. Closed June through September when used as an active fire lookout. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.

About

Diamond Butte Lookout sits atop a 30-foot masonry tower on Diamond Butte at an elevation of 4,245 feet in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, approximately 40 miles from Ashland, Montana. Originally moved from Yeager Butte in 1958, this lookout served as an active fire detection station until 2001 and continues to function as an active fire lookout during summer months. The lookout accommodates up to 4 people and is furnished with a twin bed with mattress, a double futon with mattress, a cot, table, and chairs. Propane appliances include a cook stove with oven, lights, and a heater. Basic cooking and eating utensils, along with cleaning supplies, are provided. An outhouse with pit toilet is located at the gate 200 feet below the lookout, and a wagon is available in the basement to help haul gear up the steep hill. No water or electricity is available; guests must bring all their own water and pack out all trash. The lookout offers expansive views of nearby hills and the distant Bighorn Mountains about 100 miles away. The surrounding landscape features sparse vegetation including sagebrush and lupin. Wildlife in the area includes fox, black bear, antelope, and various bird species. Activities include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, off-road vehicle riding, and hunting. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov, and guests must call for the combination lock code prior to their stay.

Directions

From Ashland, Montana: travel east on State Highway 212 for approximately 3 miles. Turn south onto Otter Creek Road (Highway 484) and travel 20 miles. Just past the Fort Howes Work Center, turn east onto Taylor Creek Road and travel 12 miles to Sonnette Divide Road. Turn north onto Sonnette Divide Road for 2 miles, then turn east on Diamond Butte Lookout Road. Travel 1 mile to the gate. The lookout is a 200-foot walk up a steep hill from the parking area.

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