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Site Temporarily Closed
Gird Point lookout is closed for ongoing maintenance.
Recreation Region: Darby Ranger District

Gird Point Lookout

The Bitterroot National Forest invites you to enjoy a unique recreational experience at Gird Point Lookout. This historic L-4 cabin sits on top of an 8' tower and is located 11 miles east of Hamilton, Montana at 7,702 feet elevation.  Visitors can drive to within a half mile of the lookout and must then hike a moderate grade the remaining way. The lookout was restored during a multi-year project that began in 2001 and is furnished with vintage 1940's lookout furnishings. There is no electricity or water. Visitors should bring their own propane canisters (1lb)  for cooking and lighting 

Reservations

Make Reservations Here

$30 per night

Reserve this lookout through recreation.gov

General Information

The 14-by-14 lookout is equipped with two beds that can sleep up to four people. It has a table and chairs, a propane stove and lantern, basic eating and cooking utensils and pots and pans, as well as a wood stove for heat and cooking. Firewood should be available at the tower but supply cannot be guaranteed. An outdoor toilet is also provided. Guests will need to bring their own water for drinking, cooking and cleaning purposes, as well as propane fuel canisters. Bedding, including mattress pads, is not provided. Visitors should plan to bring bedding, towels, soap, matches, garbage bags, toilet paper and food, among other necessities. Guests are required to pack out all trash and clean the cabin prior to leaving. Basic cleaning equipment is provided. No smoking or open flames (candles) in the Lookout. No fireworks. The lookout can be accessed by vehicle and then a short hike over a moderate grade for the remainder of the route. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety. The historic L-4 cabin sits on top of an 8' high tower, with narrow steps and catwalk. This may pose a hazard for children and pets. Guests are responsible for their own safety.

Typical season of operation: 

Mid June - Mid September 

Overnight use

Limit of 4 people

Pack it in, Pack it out

$30/night. Call the Darby Ranger Station at (406) 821-3913 for the current combination for the lock on the door, a week in advance of your arrival.

https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234281

Contact Name: Darby-Sula Ranger District

Contact Phone: 406-821-3913

Darby Ranger Station administrative office in the winter.

Address: 712 N. Main Darby, MT 59829
Phone: 406-821-3913
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 46.2075

Longitude: -113.9105556

Elevation

7702

Directions

From Hamilton, MT travel 2 miles south on Highway 93. Turn east (left) on Skalkaho Highway 38 and travel 8.5 miles. Turn north (left) onto Gird Point Rd/FS 714 and follow this winding mountain road approximately thirteen miles to the Gird Point Lookout Trailhead parking area. From there you will hike approximately 3/4 of a mile to the lookout on a moderate grade.

Parking

Parking area will accommodate 2-3 vehicles. It is located SW of the lookout, along FS road #714 approximately 13 miles from its junction with Hwy 38 (Skalkaho Hwy). 

Facility and Amenity Information

Accessibility

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Horse/Pack Animal Information

Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.

Recreation Opportunities

Hiking Hiking
Outdoor Science and Learning Outdoor Science and Learning

Viewing WildlifeViewing Wildlife
Viewing PlantsViewing Plants
Viewing SceneryViewing Scenery

Last updated April 23rd, 2025