The Mission Lookout on the Swan Lake Ranger District of Flathead National Forest will be available for rental earlier in 2013 than in previous years. 

The lookout had been opening on June 1, but the district will make the cabin available starting May 15, 2013.

Like similar Forest Service lookouts, the Mission site has experienced several face-lifts in its 75-year history as a fire detection tower. 

The existing structure built in 1959 consists of a 15- by 15-foot cabin with windows on all sides perched atop a 40 foot wooden tower. 

With a maximum group capacity of two adults and children, Mission Lookout is best suited for a couple or small family. 

The tower is equipped with a small bed, fold-up cots, a propane cooking stove and simple cooking utensils. An outhouse is located at ground level. Renters will need to bring bedding including pillows, food, firewood (a fire ring is located at the base of the tower), toiletries, water, and non-open flame light sources.

The Flathead National Forest has 14 cabins that are available to rent on an overnight basis. 

Some of the cabins have electricity, all have either wood or electric stoves for cooking and heating and one has indoor plumbing. Some of the cabins are located right on a road; others require that you hike, ski, or snowmobile into them. For a list of cabins on the forest, go to  www.fs.usda.gov/activity/flathead/recreation/camping-cabins.

The Mission Lookout and other rental cabins can be reserved by calling 1-877-444-6777  or go online to http://www.recreation.gov.