Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout
4.4621 reviews3710 W FALLON STREET SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT, 59718, USA
Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout
$65.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout is $65. Additional fees such as a $10 change fee or cancellation fee may apply.
About this campground
Perched high above the world at 8,245 feet, Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout invites adventurous souls to experience camping unlike anywhere else. This remote mountaintop sanctuary rewards those willing to make the journey—whether by hiking trail in summer, mountain bike along rugged paths, or by snowshoe and snowmobile through winter's pristine landscape. Here, where the sky seems close enough to touch, you'll find yourself sleeping among the clouds with 360-degree views that stretch endlessly across Montana's most spectacular mountain ranges.
Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout is a unique camping destination offering a rustic cabin getaway.
Historical SignificanceStanding as a sentinel since 1930, the original Garnet Mountain lookout served as the watchful eyes protecting vast wilderness from wildfire. The current tower, built in 1962, continues this proud tradition while offering modern adventurers a chance to step into the boots of generations of fire spotters who called this eagle's nest home. Each weathered board and window pane tells stories of solitary watchers scanning horizons, radioing in smoke plumes, and witnessing countless sunrises paint the mountains gold.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Garnet Mountain into a crystalline wonderland, where deep snows blanket the landscape and temperatures plunge, creating a true backcountry experience for the well-prepared adventurer. As summer arrives, the mountain sheds its white coat to reveal alpine meadows and warming sunshine, though the thin air at this elevation keeps temperatures refreshingly cool even on the hottest valley days. The journey to reach this lofty perch can be challenging any time of year, but the reward is a front-row seat to nature's ever-changing theater.
ElevationAt 8,245 feet above sea level, Garnet Mountain places you in rarified air where eagles soar at eye level and weather patterns unfold beneath your feet. This dramatic elevation brings crisp, clean air that fills your lungs with mountain freshness, while temperatures remain delightfully cool even in midsummer. From this lofty vantage point, the world below transforms into a living map where forests, meadows, and distant peaks create an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow.
Natural Features and SceneryGarnet Mountain sits at the crossroads of Montana's most majestic landscapes, where the jagged Gallatin Range meets the towering Spanish Peaks and the sculptured ridgelines of Hyalite Ridge. This wild kingdom serves as home to some of North America's most iconic wildlife—grizzly bears lumber through berry patches, wolves traverse ancient hunting grounds, and elusive mountain lions patrol rocky outcrops. Lucky visitors might spot elk grazing in distant meadows, moose browsing willow thickets, or catch a fleeting glimpse of a lynx padding silently through the shadows.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of the Gallatin Range, Garnet Mountain stands as a geological masterpiece sculpted by millions of years of tectonic forces and glacial artistry. From this commanding position, the landscape unfolds like a geology textbook come to life—the dramatic Spanish Peaks thrust skyward to the south, while Hyalite Ridge's serrated profile cuts the eastern horizon. Below, the Gallatin River Valley traces its ancient path, a ribbon of life winding between these monumental peaks that tell the story of Earth's powerful creative forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible via hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing during winter and by ATVs or motorcycles during summer. Accessibility for disabled individuals is not directly addressed.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to four guests.
Sites PrivacyOffers high privacy due to its remote mountaintop location.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid winter routes unless prepared for harsh conditions and heavy snow. Bring extra water and essential supplies.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite 001 in Loop: AREA GARNET MOUNTAIN FIRE LOOKOUT is highest rated.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in details provided upon reservation.
Check-out
Check-out details provided upon reservation.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 5 consecutive nights per stay.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 4 guests allowed
- bunk beds provided.
Groups
Group camping features or specific site allowances are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin available with bunk beds, wood stove, propane stove, and vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not mentioned; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night’s fee, alongside additional penalties.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout offers various recreational activities depending on the season. Popular options include hiking, mountain biking, off-road vehicle trails, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The lookout is accessible via a 4.5-mile trail gaining 2,800 feet. The trail is steep and challenging, as noted in user reviews like Caleb H: 'If you're planning on skinning or hiking to the fire lookout in the winter you might want to plan on taking the ATV route and giving yourself 6 hours to get there.'Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity during the summer months on trails leading to the lookout.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight at Garnet Mountain, with frequent sightings of grizzly bears, gray wolves, mountain lions, elk, moose, and various bird species.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Snowmobilers are required to purchase a winter trail grooming pass.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as an activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must be contained within designated rings. Burning wood pallets is prohibited.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears and other wildlife are common; deep snow and challenging trails can pose additional risks.
Active alertsWinter access limitations from January 1 - May 15. Trail grooming passes required for snowmobiles and bikes.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Bozeman, MT, approximately 21 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingGuests must bring garbage bags to pack out all trash as no garbage service is provided.
Proximity to water featuresNo water features nearby; guests must bring their own water.
Common complaintsReviews mention issues such as flies in summer, icy trails in winter, and motorized vehicle noise.
Hostnull
Campground Map
3710 W FALLON STREET SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT, 59718, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman, MT: Take US Highway 191 west to Four Corners, then south towards Big Sky/West Yellowstone for approximately 21 miles to the intersection with Storm Castle Road FS 132 which is on your left (east) and immediately crosses the Gallatin River on a single span concrete bridge. Follow specific trail options based on season and mode of transportation.
Access to Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout is limited to non-motorized vehicles during winter (January 1 - May 15) and requires precise navigation along Storm Castle Road FS 132. Sections are closed to vehicles wider than 50 inches.Nearby places
Bozeman, MT (approx. 21 miles), Big Sky, MT (approx. 15 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, fuel, and essentials are likely available in Bozeman, MT, about 21 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
21 reviews
Garnet Mountain Fire Lookout is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the beautiful views, challenging access trails, and well-maintained facilities. Common praises include the abundance of firewood and the cozy environment. Issues such as flies, lack of toilet paper, and trail conditions are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include breathtaking views, a clean and well-maintained cabin, availability of firewood, and memorable experiences such as meteor showers and wildlife sightings.
Based on 21 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users raised concerns about the trail's difficulty, lack of snow grooming, flies in the cabin, missing amenities like toilet paper or mantles, and noise from motorized vehicles.
Based on 21 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra toilet paper, mantles for lanterns, a sharp hatchet, and a light pack for winter hikes. Amanda F suggests, 'Highly suggest bringing your own hatchet as the one there is...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews point out challenges with snow-covered trails and snowmobiling access. Summer reviews highlight the steep hiking trail and the motorized vehicle noise. Spring reviews are mixed, with...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Awesome thunderstorm, meteor showers, etc.' (Dean S)
2. 'Really cool spot.' (Oleksandr Sobol)
3. 'Great trail for hikers as well as ATVs.' (Louise Steed)
4. 'The poop cone in the outhouse is...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews primarily focus on campsite 001, with users praising the views, coziness, and cleanliness but cautioning about trail difficulties and amenities.
Based on 21 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are not explicitly available. Challenges in reaching the site during winter due to snow conditions are noted.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not recommended, as noted in policies stating that solid pet wastes must be removed within 100 yards of the cabin.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025