Clay Butte Lookout Tower

Trail Overview

This trail is a well-maintained dirt spur off the Beartooth Highway (US-212), climbing 800 feet to the Clay Butte Lookout Tower with occasional pullouts to pass two-way traffic. The trail starts in a pine forest with wildflower meadows in the summer before rising above the treeline for 360 views of the Beartooth Highway, Beartooth Mountains to the north west, and Absaroka Mountains to the south west. There are a few pullouts along the trail, which could be used for dispersed camping; however, no camping is allowed at the top of the road near the lookout, as posted. There is a small parking area at the lookout tower with a public viewing deck, interpretive signs, and a pit toilet.

Photos of Clay Butte Lookout Tower

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Difficulty

The trail has a few potholes and rutted sections that could become slippery when wet.

Technical Rating

Clay Butte Lookout Tower can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike