Diamond Butte Lookout sits at the top of a breathtaking 30-foot masonry tower, where visitors can admire the rugged landscape during the day and have front-row seats to the remarkable cosmos at night. Enjoy beautiful hikes in the area, or head to a nearby town to check out local events, eateries and museums. Reservations are required.

The space is homey and simple, furnished with a table, chairs and three beds. Make sure to bring the appropriate gear because there is no electricity, water or trash removal. You’ll also need to bring your own bedding, cooler, lanterns, etc. 

There is a vault toilet in the parking lot below the lookout for convenience. Be prepared for a steep hike up for two hundred feet from the parking area to the lookout (a wagon is provided in the basement of the lookout as a way to more easily transfer your belongings up the hill). 

During the Day

• Enjoy hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking near the lookout. 
• Visit the Cheyenne Indian Museum, at the historic St. Labre Indian Mission in Ashland, to view an extensive collection of tribal artifacts and collectibles.
• Learn about the unique history of the region at Powder River Historical Museum and Mac’s Museum, located in Broadus.

Getting There

From Ashland, travel east on HWY 212 for approximately 3 miles. Turn south onto Otter Creek Road and travel 20 miles. Just past the Fort Howes Work Center, turn east onto Taylor Creek Road and travel 12 miles to Sonnette Divide Road. Turn north onto the Sonnette Divide Road for 2 miles then turn east on the Diamond Butte Lookout Road; travel 1 mile to the lookout.