Distinctly Montana Magazine

w w w . d i s t i n c t l y m o n t a n a . c o m 3 7 Modern technology, such as 360-de- gree cameras, infrared imagery, un- manned drone fire detection, and smoke tracking satellites, has reduced the need for manned fire lookouts. However, as technology cannot truly replace the an- alytical communication and fire tracking expertise provided by an expert "looker," the "lookers" are still an important part in spotting and suppressing fires before they grow out of control, and a few remain manned today. But with the need for occupied lookouts decreasing, backcountry rentals of the lookouts are becoming more available; the Forest Service rents the cabins to overnight campers via www.Recreation.Gov. Most contain minimal accommodations for a truly rustic experience that requires packing in and packing out all gear and items (including trash!). A wood stove, matches, bunk beds, and playing cards are among the few items that you are likely to find available in the lookouts. Leave No Trace principles are funda- mental when visiting or renting them, meaning that lookouts are expected to be treated with the utmost respect and are to be left in better condition than when visitors first arrive—this means removal of all trash, replacement of firewood, and overall respect for the lookout and its premises. Most lookouts around Montana require only a pair of hiking shoes, bear spray, ample water, and a positive attitude to reach their lofty summit high points. With hikes ranging from a short three miles to a full days hike, there's a lookout for everyone. Not all are available for rent, but many are. Here are my favorites around Montana: located in Glacier National Park is HUCKLEBERRY MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT. Around Bozeman, GARNET MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT is the local favorite. Near Missoula and Kalispell, STAHL PEAK LOOKOUT, MEADOW PEAK LOOKOUT, and UP UP LOOKOUT provide a milder or zero hike option with overnight stay options. HUCKLEBERRY MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT 6,593' TRAILHEAD: Huckleberry Lookout Trailhead HIKE DISTANCE: 6 Miles (One-Way) with 3,400' Elevation Gain RENTAL AVAILABILITY: Not Available for Overnight Rental HIKE DIFFICULTY: Hard Huckleberry Mountain Lookout holds one of the most spec- tacular views of Glacier Park's Livingston Range, with towering summits, large active glaciers, and one of Montana's finest lookout towers. To get to the lookout, head north 5.8 miles on Camas Road from Apgar in Glacier Park until you reach a small GARNET MOUNTAIN UP UP LOOKOUT HUCKLEBERRY MOUNTAIN STAHL PEAK MEADOW PEAK

• Cover