Established Camping
Mt. Baldy-buckhorn Ridge
About
USDA Forest Service
Kootenai National Forest
Overview
The Mount Baldy - Buckhorn Ridge Lookout sits at an elevation of 6,529 feet in the Kootenai National Forest. This location has been used as an observation point for detecting forest fires since 1910. The current lookout tower was built in 1957. The lookout is typically available from late June through late September, and is accessible by car, though high clearance vehicles are recommended for the primitive roads. Some creature comforts are provided, but guests should be prepared to pack in many of their own amenities.
Recreation
Aside from exploring Mount Baldy, hikers can find a network of trails in the surrounding Yaak Area. The Northwest Peaks Scenic Area, located in the northwest corner of the Yaak Area, offers a variety of hiking trails in beautiful settings. Hunting is also possible nearby. Wild berries grow in the area, inviting berry pickers.
Facilities
This 144 square foot lookout cabin sits atop a 26-foot tower and is encircled by a catwalk. It can accommodate 4 people and comes equipped with 2 twin beds and 4 mattresses, a table, 2 chairs, broom and dustpan. Propane appliances are provided that include a cook stove, heater and lights. An outhouse with vault toilet islocated nearby.The lookout does not have electricity or water. Guests must provide their own water for drinking, cooking and washing. Items such as cooking gear, bedding, lanterns or flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, and towels are not available. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.
Natural Features
The lookout offers views of the Kaniksu National Forest in Idaho, the Cabinet Mountain Range and Rock Candy Mountain. The panorama features endless mountain peaks and evergreen forest. Guests have an ideal location for watching sunrises and sunsets, or for gazing out over the starry night skies. Kootenai National Forest supports populations of deer, elk, moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves and mountain lions (bear safety). A variety of smaller mammals and birds can also be found.
Nearby Attractions
Yaak Falls is a popular destination just a short drive from the lookout off Yaak Highway 508. Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, when the snowmelt finds its way over the falls.
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Fires
Fire tower lookout cabin
You can drive right up to the base of the fire tower and then do day hikes from the summit (or hike up in winter). The views in all directions are amazing. We didn’t go to bed for hours because of stargazing. Pros: backcountry camping but not in a tent, bunkbeds, table, stove, outhouse, wildlife, wildberries, hiking, incredible views. Cons: no water (bring filters/chems).
Mount Baldy
About a 6 mile hike in to hidden lake, camp on the outskirts but if you want seclusion you will find it here. Rocky terrain but water is not short here and it will be found in the bright green foliage jetting from the mountain sides, Spring water, also berry picking is here which means predators so come prepared, bear and wolf sign. The view is amazing!! With view of the 3 sister mountains from the crest, Its like Eden.
Location
Mt. Baldy-buckhorn Ridge is located in Montana
Directions
From Troy Montana, follow Highway 2 West for 9.5 miles to Yaak Highway 508. Follow Yaak Highway 508 for 18 miles north to Meadow Creek Road 524. Follow Road 524 1 mile to junction with Road 745. Take road 745 approximately 4 miles to Baldy Mountain Lookout Road 591. Follow 591 for approximately 2 miles to Road 5954. Take Road 5954 to the lookout.
Address
Three Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2
Troy, MT 59935-8750
Coordinates
48.8361111 N
115.9291667 W