Diamond Butte Lookout

About

Diamond Butte Lookout is a historic fire lookout tower perched atop a 30-foot masonry structure on Diamond Butte in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Originally located at Yeager Butte, the lookout was moved to its current location in 1958 and served as an active fire lookout until 2001. At 4,245 feet elevation, guests enjoy expansive views of the surrounding hills and the distant Bighorn Mountains, approximately 100 miles away. The lookout is furnished with a twin bed, double futon, and cot with mattresses, accommodating up to 4 people. Propane heat, lights, and a cook stove with oven are provided, along with basic cooking and eating utensils. There is no electricity, running water, or garbage service. A pit toilet outhouse is located 200 feet below the lookout. Guests must bring their own bedding, water, flashlights, toilet paper, and trash bags. A wagon in the basement helps haul gear up the steep hill. The surrounding landscape features sparse vegetation with sagebrush and lupin. Wildlife in the area includes fox, black bear, antelope, and various bird species. Recreation opportunities include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, off-road vehicle riding, and hunting.

Directions

From Ashland, Montana, travel east on Highway 212 for approximately 3 miles. Turn right (south) onto Otter Creek Road (Highway 484) and travel 20 miles. Just past the Fort Howes Work Center, turn left onto Taylor Creek Road and travel east 12 miles to Sonnette Divide Road. Turn left (north) on Sonnette Divide Road, travel 2 miles, then turn right on Diamond Butte Lookout Road (Forest Trail 4001). Travel 1 mile to the gate. Hike 200 feet up a steep hill to the lookout.