Star Peak Lookout
The lookout is a hiking destination only and is not available as an overnight rental. Trail access is typically available from late spring through fall, depending on snow conditions. No facilities, water, or restrooms are available.
Northern Region Camping & Target Restrictions, Pallet Prohibition
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho
Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Order for the Northern Region
It is illegal to possess, store or transport straw, hay, grain, seed or other forage or mulch products on Forest Service lands without documentation that the product is certified as “weed free” by a state certification process that meets or exceeds the North American Weed Free Forage standards.
R1-2023-02 - NCDE Food and Wildlife Attractant Storage Order
Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem Food/Wildlife Attractant Storage Order for the Flathead, Lolo, Kootenai, Helena-Lewis and Clark, and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forests within the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem.
About
Star Peak holds the distinction of being Montana's first recorded fire lookout site. The current structure was built in 1910 and sits above the remnants of an original rock house. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Scotchman Peaks, Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, and the Clark Fork Valley below. Access is via a strenuous out-and-back hike on Big Eddy Trail #998 and Star Gulch Trail #1016. The 8.9-mile round trip gains approximately 3,927 feet, with steady climbing through forested switchbacks and open slopes. No reliable water sources exist beyond the lower creek, so hikers must carry sufficient water. The trail is rated difficult. This is a backcountry hiking destination, not an established campground or overnight rental. The historic lookout tower is not available for overnight stays through the reservation system. Dispersed camping is permitted in Kootenai National Forest unless otherwise posted, but there are no developed facilities at or near the summit.
Directions
From milepost 6 on Highway 200, turn north onto FSR 2292. The Big Eddy Trailhead is located approximately 100 yards from the highway on the first switchback. Limited parking is available at the trailhead for a few small vehicles. Those with larger vehicles or trailers should park on the south side of Highway 200 in the wide pullout area and walk to the trailhead.
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 827-3533 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Useful Links
| Kootenai NF Recreation | |
| Kootenai NF Camping & Cabins |
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