Granite Butte Lookout

Open — Open year-round by reservation through Recreation.gov. Vehicle access typically requires high-clearance vehicles and may not be possible November through late May due to snow. Winter visitors must ski or snowmobile the final 4.5 miles from plowed parking at Stemple Pass.

Notify on Availability Reserve

About

The Granite Butte Lookout sits at 7,587 feet above sea level atop the Continental Divide of North America, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the life of a historic Forest Service lookout. The 15' by 15' cabin sits atop a 20-foot tall wooden tower, first constructed in 1932 and rebuilt in 1962. This structure was listed on the National Register of Historic Lookouts in 2008 and has been recently renovated to provide guests with an authentic yet comfortable backcountry experience. The lookout is perched on a grassy ridge directly on the Continental Divide, providing spectacular 360-degree views of high elevation whitebark pine stands, open meadows, large rock outcroppings, and abundant wildflowers in season. Lower elevation conifer stands and streams are located nearby. Wildlife is abundant in the area, including elk, mule and white-tailed deer, black bear, and various birds, with occasional sightings of grizzly bear, wolverine, mountain lion, and lynx. The lookout accommodates up to four people with one twin bed and three auxiliary cots. It comes equipped with a table, chairs, woodstove for heat, propane cook stove, propane-powered lanterns, dishes, and cutlery. An axe and splitting maul are provided for firewood preparation. The facility does not have electricity or indoor plumbing; a vault toilet is located near the tower. Guests must bring their own water, bedding, propane, matches, and personal supplies, and are expected to pack out all garbage and clean the cabin before departure. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail passes directly by the lookout, offering endless opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Winter visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing and access to over 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Directions

Located approximately 16 miles southeast of Lincoln. From Lincoln, take Stemple Pass Road #601 for approximately 14 miles to the pass, turn onto Marsh Creek Road #485 south for 3 miles, then turn onto Granite Butte Road #4133 for the final 1.5 miles to the lookout. High-clearance vehicles strongly recommended for the final stretch. In winter, Stemple Pass Road is plowed but visitors must ski or snowmobile the final 4.5 miles from plowed parking at the Stemple Pass cross-country ski area.