Up Up Lookout

About

Up Up Lookout is a historic 40-foot wooden fire lookout tower built in the 1930s, perched dramatically on a rock pinnacle in the Bitterroot Mountains of western Montana near the Idaho border. At 5,900 feet elevation, guests enjoy sweeping views of the St. Regis River drainage and surrounding alpine peaks. The tower accommodates up to four people with one twin bed and mattress pad; additional cots are recommended. The lookout is equipped with propane lights and a wall-mounted heater but has no cooking facilities or refrigeration. At the tower base, visitors will find a vault toilet, fire ring with grill, and picnic table. No potable water is available, so guests must bring their own supply. All garbage and food must be packed out, and bear safety food storage requirements apply. The Up Up Ridge Trail provides access to the spectacular Ward and Eagle Peaks roadless area, featuring scenic alpine lakes and trails leading to 7,300-foot Eagle Peak. The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, berry picking, and fall colors. Big game hunters frequently use the ridge during hunting season.

Directions

From I-90, take Ward Creek Exit 26 (eastbound only; if westbound, take Drexel Exit 25 and return eastbound). Travel Ward Creek Road #889 for 3.2 miles, turn right onto Road #3816 and travel 12.1 miles to the locked gate, then proceed 3.2 miles to the tower base. Do not follow GPS directions.