Apgar Fire Lookout

The Apgar Fire Lookout is a two-story frame structure with a pyramidal roof situated at about 5,236 feet elevation in Glacier National Park. It features rustic architectural elements designed for observing the surrounding forest and mountain terrain.

The original observation tower was built in 1929 but was destroyed by the Half Moon Fire. It was immediately rebuilt to create the current structure in 1930.

The tower is named after Milo B. Apgar, a settler who arrived at Lake McDonald in the 1890s. It represents early tourism development near the Great Northern Railway in this area.

Visitors reach the tower via a round-trip hike of about 7.2 miles through lodgepole pine and larch forests with an elevation gain of about 1,850 feet. Bring sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water, as the trail moves steadily uphill.

On clear days, visitors can spot the Mount Saint Nicholas peak from the observation deck, a distance of roughly 40 kilometers away. Edwards Mountain and the Little Matterhorn are also visible from this vantage point, making it special for those seeking distant views.

Location: Flathead County

Inception: 1930

Architectural style: rustic architecture

GPS coordinates: 48.51809,-114.02057

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:26