Yaak Mtn. Lookout Rental
Closed — Closed for winter. Typically opens late May through late September, weather permitting. Access depends on road conditions. Reservations available through Recreation.gov.
R1-2024-01 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.
R1-2025-01 Camping stay limits & prohibitions on pallets and refuse use for target shooting
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within all national forests in Montana, and the Dakota Prairie National Grasslands, Idaho Panhandle and Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests.
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.
R1-2023-01 Northern Region Camping Restrictions
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, and South Dakota.
Flood Events & Safety Reminders
Over the past week, portions of the Kootenai National Forest have experienced heavy amounts of rainfall due to an atmospheric river moving through the area.
Ross Creek Cedar Flood Update
After the recent flood events that occurred across the Kootenai National Forest, the Ross Creek Cedars unfortunately sustained significant damage. The damage is currently being assessed.
Kootenai Flood Event & Inaccessible Areas
Portions of the Kootenai National Forest have recently experienced heavy amounts of rainfall due to an atmospheric river moving through the area.
Isabella & Lost Girl Fires- Road and Trail Closure
Due to the Isabella and Lost Girl Fires on the Cabinet Ranger District, a closure order is now in effect for a portion National Forest System Road 407, National Forest System Trail #407A, and Trail #646 (St. Paul Lake Trail).
Spruce Fire Road Closure-Updated
Due to the Spruce and Spruce Ridge Fires on the Three Rivers Ranger District, a closure order is still in effect. However, the original order has been terminated and replaced with an updated closure.
South Meadow Creek Fire Closure
Due to the South Meadow Creek Fire, a closure order is now in effect for National Forest System Roads #524 and #5961, starting at the junction of the two roads to their respective ending points.
Kootenai Rails Trail Closure
A portion of the Kootenai Rails Trail (NFS Trail #255) on the Rexford Ranger District is now temporarily closed during construction activities on the Tobacco River Bridge, which is over the trail, and to protect the public on the trail from potential debris impacts.
About
Yaak Mountain Lookout has served as a fire observation point since 1958, perched at 4,977 feet in the Rocky Mountains of Kootenai National Forest. This rustic rental offers a unique backcountry experience with commanding 360-degree views of the Kootenai and Yaak River valleys, the town of Troy, and surrounding wilderness. The lookout is especially popular for viewing Fourth of July fireworks from above. The 14x14 foot tower is equipped with basic amenities including two twin beds with four mattresses, propane stove, propane heater, propane lights, table, chairs, and cleaning supplies. An outdoor pit toilet is provided, but the site has no electricity or water. Access requires navigating approximately 9.5 miles of primitive forest roads from Highway 2, including a locked gate accessible only to reservation holders. High clearance vehicles are strongly recommended. The surrounding area offers excellent fishing in the Kootenai River for rainbow trout, and the Yaak River system supports cutthroat, rainbow, brook, and bull trout. Wildlife is abundant, including grizzly and black bears, wolves, elk, moose, and mountain lions. Yaak Falls is a popular nearby attraction, best visited during spring and early summer snowmelt.
Directions
From Troy, Montana, follow Highway 2 west for 3 miles to East Side Road 176. Follow East Side Road 176 north for 2 miles to Kilbrennen Lake Road 2394. Follow Kilbrennen Lake Road 2394 approximately 2 miles to Yaak Mountain Road 4407. A locked gate requires combination code provided with reservation. Continue 5.3 miles on Road 4407 to the lookout. Total distance from Highway 2 is approximately 9.5 miles on primitive roads. High clearance vehicles recommended.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | No |
| Water Hookups | No |
| Sewer Hookups | No |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $55 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 295-4693 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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