Up Up Lookout, MT - Latest Reviews, Photos & Campground Map

Up Up Lookout is located in the Superior Ranger District, Lolo National Forest (1 hr 51 min west of Missoula, MT) with an elevation of 5,912 feet. The site is normally open from mid June to the beginning of October. Prices start at $45.00 per night. Activities include biking, hiking trails.
A photo of inside the Up Up Lookout TowerA photo of the Up Up Lookout Tower from ground levelUp Up Lookout Tower Up Up Lookout Tower view.

Campsite Reviews (27)

4.8 out of 5

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@ChaseKB55CB5D7 · Camped on Jun 27, 2025 at Campsite #1
Up Up Lookout was beautiful. Well worth the planning to take a trip to it. The road up/down when following the directions given is an easy one. We did it in a Kia Soul with no issues. A more capable vehicle could make the trip quicker but I would plan an hour drive each way if you have something more standard. If or when we do it again we wouldn't plan anything other than staying up at the lookout. The drive time to other activities ate into our days more than we would have liked.We cooked great meals over the fire pit, and enjoyed the 360 degree views from the lookout. If you have any fear of heights the first few times up can be a bit nerve wracking, especially unlocking and lifting the hatch. However, the cabin is very sturdy even with solid winds. The bucket lift is great for reducing hauling. The place is well stocked, and a few fine folk have left additional items. We didn't encounter any large wildlife, but there were signs of bears and wolves on the nearby trails. On a Saturday we had 5 visitors to the lookout while we were there. I'm not sure if they knew it was a reservation, or were hoping nobody would be there. A few came up some hiking trails, another group parked before the gate and hiked the rest of the way. Don't be surprised if you have guests visiting. On the weekend we also ran into a few OHV's on the way up. Thanks for having such a cool experience available. If you stay be sure to clean up, and take care of the place.
@JessicaF803711 · Camped on Jun 15, 2025 at Campsite #1
What a phenomenal experience. The view from the tower is out of this world. The room was clean and comfy and the information provided was appreciated and helpful. Some things to consider: -I wouldnt recommend doing the road in something without good ground clearance (preferably something like a Jeep Wrangler or Subaru Forester or pickup). All the reviews raved about the road, so we made the mistake of choosing our more comfortable car (which made it a little rough/interesting). The first few miles and the last few miles are great. Middle would be fine if you dont make the same mistake we did lol. -The stone steps up to the lookout tower are wobbly and the one piece of railing remaining is useless (the railing in the photo is not there). - Bathroom if you dont want to go down the 60 steps of the tower, the wobbly stone steps, and then walk a wee bit to the outhouse, I would recommend bringing a bucket. We did and it made the world of difference, especially for my mom and I (the kids would have been fine either way). So, if you are fit, have great balance, have no fear of heights, and a strong bladder, this place is definitely for you. We are really only 1 of those things and we would still do it again.
@VictoriaW12824 · Camped on Sep 4, 2024 at Campsite #1
The directions to the lookout worked great. The road up (17 miles of dirt road), wasnt bad. If you have a fear of heights (as I do) this lookout will either cure or kill you. The first time up the stairs (60) was a killer and then the last set of steps being the steepest was where I had to stand hands free to enter the code and push open the trap door. Tough stuff but I survived. After about 4 times up and down the steps we got used to it; just concentrate on your feet. The steps up were enough to wear you out but the rocky path before the steps was also a challenge. Its a LONG way to the outhouse, just FYI. We didnt need the propane heater or the lights, it was so warm. Whoever was up there before us did not completely put out the fire near the picnic table so we used some of our water on that. . Good views. Saw no wildlife to speak of. Would do it again. The hand sanitizer was greatly appreciated. We used the rope & bucket for lowering some things when we left.
@LillianB1CDDE9 · Camped on Jul 5, 2024 at Campsite #1
DON'T TRUST GOOGLE MAPS FOR DIRECTIONS! We followed the directions provided on this page (under "Getting Here") and it was super easy and straightforward - there are even signs on the forest roads leading up to the lookout to point you in the correct direction. The dirt road is well-maintained, and while it's a long drive, its easy and beautiful. The lookout itself is incredible -- super clean and tidy, with absolutely amazing views all around. No water or cooking supplies, so plan accordingly, but there are gas lights and a heater inside to keep you warm and well-lit. There's decent cell service there too, if that's a need you have. We had a blast, and would definitely recommend this spot to anyone!!
@AnnaB8559934 · Camped on Jun 14, 2024 at Campsite #1
Beautiful but terrifying! This lookout sways more than most in the wind. We were the first visitors of the year and the heater was broken - the lookout is of course uninsulated, so this was a bit nerve wracking since it was so cold. We had cell service and were trying to figure out how to fix the heater with no luck. The last guest book entries of 2023 mentioned the broken heater too. On our second day, it started snowing quite a bit - luckily we somehow figured out how to fix the heater (someone had unplugged the electrode that ignited the pilot light...why on earth would someone do that?!). The rest of the stay was a little better with heat, but still pretty chilly. We spent most of the trip stuck inside with storms outside, so can't comment on hiking in the area. We saw a moose and a bobcat on the drive up. This lookout has no cooking supplies or games but decent cleaning supplies.
@TiaS7788542 · Camped on Aug 25, 2023 at Campsite #1
Beautiful and so peaceful! We spent the first night of our reservation car camping lost on an impassable FS road. Memories were made, to say the least. DO NOT follow Google directions (multiple logs in the book of people getting lost from those directions)! Google will take you to Up Up/Deer Creek Loop Road, resulting in a locked gated road. All the other roads in that area eventually become overgrown and too narrow to pass. TAKE exit 26 Ward Peak off the interstate. Unfortunately, the exit is only on the Eastbound side, so if youre coming from Missoula, youll have to pass the exit and backtrack on the Eastbound side of the interstate. Upon taking Exit 26, its impossible to get lost because there are signs all the way to the lookout! We decorated the lookout with lights to make it extra cozy at night. Theres a nice picnic area below the lookout, which is great for doing your cooking. Its a pretty steep walk up to the lookout, and I wasnt about to drag my cooking stuff up there, haha This was lookout #12 for me, and I cant wait to return!
@KaryG598954251 · Camped on Aug 7, 2023 at Campsite #1
We didnt end up making it to the lookout tower. We followed the directions google suggested when I clicked on the directions within the email I received. So as such, I dont believe my rating should matter to anyone. I do recommend calling the number associated with the tower in advance to get the correct directions. The cell service in the area is terrific and the area is breathtaking.
@JackS8867688 · Camped on Aug 7, 2022 at Campsite #1
We had a wonderful time this was our 5th lookout trip. The tower was clean and in great shape. Thanks to everyone involved in preserving these historic structures and allowing the public to use them.
@Erinc6378035 · Camped on Aug 1, 2022 at Campsite #1
The Up Up Lookout is well equipped, clean, comfortable, and has absolutely spectacular views. A fantastic experience.
@RobertP952 · Camped on Sep 14, 2021 at Campsite #1
Wonderful place! Nice to have a cabin with two propane lights and heat.

No problem driving a car. Even though there is a locked gate there are numerous reports of ATVs bypassing it through the woods to disturb renters. Make SURE you lock the catwalk due to reports of people climbing up while you are there even at night while you are asleep. Pretty rude!

Great views! You can see the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar and interstate from lookout.

I have Verizon & was able to get full 4G coverage.

People take very good care of this place with a good amount of cleaning supplies.

Pit toilet a let down. Old style with no plastic seat. Just your butt on boards. First time I have seen lime supplied which was nice. Crescent moon cut into door was fun.

There is a rope to haul things up but you may want to bring a basket or bucket with handles to put your supplies in. No winch system. Just your raw muscles to raise and lower.

Fire pit by parking area with picnic bench.

One twin bed is there along with two cots donated by "Friends Of Savenac". Thank you!

A word of warning. Even medium winds will make this lookout baby rock. It woke me up a few times at night and I thought I was being nudged. If you have a fear of heights or do not like swaying structures then you will not want to stay here.

We would stay there again for sure!
@RobertP6375002 · Camped on Sep 14, 2021 at Campsite #1
Wonderful place! Nice to have a cabin with two propane lights and heat.

No problem driving a car. Even though there is a locked gate there are numerous reports of ATVs bypassing it through the woods to disturb renters. Make SURE you lock the catwalk due to reports of people climbing up while you are there even at night while you are asleep. Pretty rude!

Great views! You can see the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar and interstate from lookout.

I have Verizon & was able to get full 4G coverage.

People take very good care of this place with a good amount of cleaning supplies.

Pit toilet a let down. Old style with no plastic seat. Just your butt on boards. First time I have seen lime supplied which was nice. Crescent moon cut into door was fun.

There is a rope to haul things up but you may want to bring a basket or bucket with handles to put your supplies in. No winch system. Just your raw muscles to raise and lower.

Fire pit by parking area with picnic bench.

One twin bed is there along with two cots donated by "Friends Of Savenac". Thank you!

A word of warning. Even medium winds will make this lookout baby rock. It woke me up a few times at night and I thought I was being nudged. If you have a fear of heights or do not like swaying structures then you will not want to stay here.

We would stay there again for sure!
@KuyokweJ700024 · Camped on Aug 9, 2021 at Campsite #1
Very clean, well maintained lookout. Three extra cots in addition to single mattress.
@KuyokweJ438 · Camped on Aug 9, 2021 at Campsite #1
Very clean, well maintained lookout. Three extra cots in addition to single mattress.
@micheller623 · Camped on Jul 12, 2021 at Campsite #1
Beautiful lookout, my second time there. The forest service has done a great job keeping it up. Didnt get to see much of the view this time due to wild fires. Only complaint is all the people that show up. Second time I have had to clean up after others. Not sure if I will rent it again, no privacy.
@micheller44570 · Camped on Jul 12, 2021 at Campsite #1
Beautiful lookout, my second time there. The forest service has done a great job keeping it up. Didnt get to see much of the view this time due to wild fires. Only complaint is all the people that show up. Second time I have had to clean up after others. Not sure if I will rent it again, no privacy.
@ChelseaP954966 · Camped on Jun 29, 2021 at Campsite #1
Amazing views. Almost never dark, I can see why it's called big sky county up there. Did the hike at the gate, worth it for the views. It was snowed in at the top of the trail but fun to play on during the hottest week of the year. Bring big spray.
@ChelseaP198 · Camped on Jun 29, 2021 at Campsite #1
Amazing views. Almost never dark, I can see why it's called big sky county up there. Did the hike at the gate, worth it for the views. It was snowed in at the top of the trail but fun to play on during the hottest week of the year. Bring big spray.
@NicolleM543 · Camped on Jun 28, 2021 at Campsite #1
Stunning! First time staying in a fire lookout and I knew from the pictures online it was going to be beautiful but in person it far exceeded my expectations.
@NicolleM970837 · Camped on Jun 28, 2021 at Campsite #1
Stunning! First time staying in a fire lookout and I knew from the pictures online it was going to be beautiful but in person it far exceeded my expectations.
@LiX5159474 · Camped on Oct 5, 2020 at Campsite #1
A wonderful experience! So relaxing and the views are unbelievable.

The Forest Service has added posts to the side of the gate to prevent cars from driving around. I was able to sleep comfortably without the heat on. Heads up, the lock is a little sticky!
@LiX130 · Camped on Oct 5, 2020 at Campsite #1
A wonderful experience! So relaxing and the views are unbelievable.

The Forest Service has added posts to the side of the gate to prevent cars from driving around. I was able to sleep comfortably without the heat on. Heads up, the lock is a little sticky!
@SteveW286 · Camped on Jul 29, 2020 at Campsite #1
Nice and clean, not set up with supplies as most of them are. Picnic table and fire pit very nice.
@SteveW7867249 · Camped on Jul 29, 2020 at Campsite #1
Nice and clean, not set up with supplies as most of them are. Picnic table and fire pit very nice.
@JammieS1927886 · Camped on Aug 19, 2019 at Campsite #1
Amazing views and a wonderful time of self reflection.
@JammieS156 · Camped on Aug 19, 2019 at Campsite #1
Amazing views and a wonderful time of self reflection.

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