Cougar Peak Lookout in MT -- Campground & RV Camping

Perched at 6,694 feet in the Cabinet Mountains, this 14-by-14 ground-level fire lookout overlooks the Clark Fork River drainage. Built in 1952, the small timber structure accommodates four people and contains a full bed, table with chairs, and a wood stove. Guests must pack in drinking water, cots, cookware, gear, and toilet paper. An outdoor vault toilet is located 200 feet away at the parking area, which has space for a small tent. The Cougar Peak Trail begins right at the ridge, and bass and pike fishing reservoirs on the Clark Fork River are within an hour's drive.

Getting there: From Thompson Falls, Montana, travel west on Highway 200 for about a mile. Before crossing the Clark Fork River bridge, turn right onto Blue Slide Road and continue about 8 miles, to the junction with Forest Road 403. Turn right and travel about 14 miles to the lookout. Maps are available online or for purchase by calling the Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District.

• Moderately separated here.
• Flat ground is scarce: under a tenth of the terrain within a few hundred yards is level.
• Cabins and shelters rather than pads.

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