Near Granite Mountain Lookout
Just below Granite Mountain Lookout, the view is pretty spectacular to the west.
Near Granite Mountain Lookout
Granite Mountain Lookout tops out at 8,478 feet.
Near Granite Mountain Lookout
Looking north from the summit toward the Grass Mountains, Hard Butte is off in the distance.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Granite Mountain Lookout

4.8 (4 Ratings)
An out and back hike to the top of 8,478' Granite Mountain.
0.6
mi
Distance
265
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Fall ColorsViewsWildflowers
Access Issues
Don't assume you'll be able to climb the lookout tower. If the lookout is staffed, ask before you head up the stairs. The lookout lives up there and it's their space. The views of the surrounding area are great without having to climb the tower.

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
0.59mi
Distance
265ft
Elevation Gain
0ft
Elevation Loss
25%
Max Grade
6,999ft
High Point
6,734ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
Cross the bridge near the parking area to start this trail (#165). There might be some cows hanging around, as this is a cattle grazing allotment in the summer time. Watch for the trail split around 0.5 mile; go left to head up Granite Mountain Lookout, and go right for Twin Lakes. The lower third of this trail is obvious, but once you reach open rock area you have to look around for the trail. There might be a few cairns to help guide you, but just keep heading up. After the rock field, the trail becomes obvious again and the summit is not too far. After checking out the views, head back down the trail.There is very little shade on this trail. Avoid hot days. And you probably don't want to drink the water down in the area where the cows hang out.Granite Mountain Trail #165 continues west to the Browns Creek and Bascom Canyon area.

Route Conditions

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Some Issues
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Contributors
Keith Lannom