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Hornet Lookout provides guests with astounding 360-degree views of the surrounding terrain, including Glacier National Park and Kintla Lake on clear days. On some nights, the Northern Lights may be seen from the lookout. Visitors also enjoy access to a variety of recreational activities.
Access to the lookout requires a one-mile hike from the trailhead at the parking area. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Hiking and mountain biking on the gravel roads and trails are among the activities available in the area. Viewing wildlife is another rewarding pastime.
The two-story lookout sits at ground level. The ground level provides a living space for two guests and the second story is a small loft used solely for full views of the region. The lookout's rustic accommodations include a propane cook stove, propane lantern, two cots, a small wood stove for heat. A pit toilet is provided outside the lookout. Pets are allowed, but cleaning up after them is required.
No water is available. Guests should pack their own bedding, water, first aid kit and food, among other necessities. [Click here for more cabin details](http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/flathead/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=66218&actid=101).
The scenic lookout is perched atop Hornet Peak, at an elevation of 6,744 feet. Nearby peaks include Wedge Mountain and Akinkoka Peak. The rustic lookout was built in 1922 and, in its prime, played an integral role for detecting forest fires in the North Fork area. A 2003 wildfire charred the surrounding area, but wildflowers and bear grass are making a comeback.
Glacier View Ranger District is bordered on the east by the North Fork of the Flathead River and Glacier National Park. To the north is Canada and west is the Montana's Kootenai National Forest.
Glacier National Park and the Wild and Scenic North Fork of the Flathead River are nearby.
From Columbia Falls, take Nucleus Avenue north through Columbia Falls and turn east on Railroad Street. At the stop sign, the road becomes the North Fork Road. Continue on North Fork Road for about 45 miles and over the railroad overpass. Turn left (west) on Whale Creek Road 318 and drive 4 miles, then turn right on the narrow Hornet Road 9805 and go 5.2 miles to the trailhead of Hornet Trail 349. Hike about a mile to the lookout.
Reservations can be made one to 180 days in advance. The rental fee is $40 per night and there is a maximum stay of three consecutive nights with a total of seven days per calendar year.
Federal Pass discounts do not apply.
Magical transcendence interrupted occasionally by overeager hikers. When it’s your mountain alone, there is nothing like it. Stars engulfed by ravenous mountain. Conspiracies of Ravens flying at your feet and yet hundreds of meters above the rivers run. Black Tail Deer sharing meal time with us before we all bed down for another lovely haunting windy night. A moon half full of her adoring Sun. For a Hermit or Lovers it is Unforgettable. Tip, bring more 2x water than you think you might need. Hike up seems steeper with a full two or three days load on your back. 😃 😛 lots of propane canisters in the lookout already just be ready to chop wood and drag up a few branches for the next good folks.
The road is gnarly. Drive slow and have a full spare for a tire. The walk is short and steep with gorgeous views
