Trail Overview

The route begins on a two-lane gravel road that eventually works its way down to one. The road can be dusty if it has been dry, but really a great ride if it rained the day before. The route begins at an altitude of 3100' and makes its way to 7300' at the tower base. There is a gate owned by the fire service that is only open from 05/02 - 09/14 in the summer months. There is a actual Fire Tower at the end of the route that is manned full time when it is open. There is only room for 3 or 4 UTVs to park at the base of the tower. Snow can still be on the ground up to July because of the high altitude where the tower is located. On a clear day, you can see for miles from the location of the tower.

Photos of Nemote Creek to Stark Lookout

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Difficulty

This is a very well-kept route by the fire service as there is actually a Fire Tower, that needs to be manned during the summer months. The route is mostly gravel with loose rock in some areas. I wouldn't drive a larger truck to the summit, as there is no room to park or turn around larger vehicles.

Technical Rating

Kyle Trebotich

Jul 27, 2025

Open

Gate is open. We made it to the lookout.

Troy Lousen

Jul 25, 2025

Open

There is a closed gate at: 47.09255, -114.61083

Spencer McNamara

Aug 31, 2024

Open

Dusty going all the way. Still very rough as you get closer to the Fire Tower. Once on top you could see all the smoke covering the Bitterroot & Lolo Mts.

Logan McHugh

Dec 31, 2023

Open

Gate closed about 13 miles from I90. Waste of time to drive up if you’re expecting to get to the lookout