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Thompson Peak Lookout
Great views of the Clark Fork Valley and Superior townsite. This site is close enough to allow easy access from Superior, but remote enough to provide the quiet and solitude expected at a lookout. This site is a multi-story building with the cabin rental on the third story. This tower has an enclosed stairway making it more suitable for children with supervision. This is a very modern tower with many amenities not found in the usual lookout like electricity and a micowave. It is also an electronic site with radio and cellular equipment located on other floors.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Open May 10, 2024. Reservations Required through Recreation.gov |
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| Fees: | $75 per night. Visit Recreation.gov to make reservations |
| Open Season: | May 10, 2024 - Early October |
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Restrictions: | No smoking in tower. No pets inside tower. CAUTION - There is no level parking area; be sure to set your parking brake and chock your wheels. Bear Safety and Food Storage Requirements Information |
| Closest Towns: | Superior, Montana |
| Water: | No drinking water available |
| Restroom: | Vault toilet |
| Information Center: | Superior Ranger District, 406-822-4233 |
General Information
Directions: Thompson Peak is located 55 miles west of Missoula, Montana on Interstate 90 (I-90), From Interstate 90, take exit #46 at Superior. Turn south and at the T-intersection turn left (east) on Diamond Road (paved) and drive for 1.1 miles, then turn right on Cedar Creek Road #320 for 2.6 miles. Then turn right on forest road #7863 and travel 6.1 miles to the lookout.General Notes: This lookout is a multi-story building with the cabin rental on the third story. The rental includes electric lights, cell phone coverage, a stove, a heater, a small refrigerator, one twin bed and is carpeted. Pack out your own garbage. You can drive directly to the tower. CAUTION - There is no level parking area so set your parking brake and chock your wheels.
Activities
Cabin Rentals
The tower is constructed of concrete block. This is a 3-storied structure with the lookout rental located on the top story. There is no open stairway as is frequently the case with lookout towers. With the use of aircraft for fire detection, less lookouts have been staffed in recent years and many are now converted to cabin rentals. Bring your favorite book and enjoy the solitude and fantastic views.| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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Viewing Scenery
From this lookout, you can enjoy views of the Clark Fork Valley, the town of Superior and the Idaho state line to the south¿and of course, the big sky of Montana.| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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