The hike is seasonal, and well worth the effort. Great view of Glacier NP in the far distance, Lake Koocanusa, the Cabinets, etc. Beautiful wildflowers in early summer. Lots of huckleberry bushes enroute for hikers, and bears, in the late summer.
The trail is well traveled to this very popular spot, and gains about 1800 ft in elevation, ending at about elev 7000. The trail is surprisingly void of a lot of big rocks to trip or climb over; good footing. Despite the elevation, the insects (yes, mosquitoes), are abundant and persistent. Be ready to grab the repellent as soon as you get out at the traihead. There is no water, except possibly for a small spring about a mile below the summit; requires filtration or disenfectant. Don't count on it though.
The lookout area has an outhouse, and several fire rings, and firewood. This is bear country, so all of the usual precautions and awareness should be implemented.
The cache is a plastic jar, initially including a travel bug awaiting a hitch hiker! The cache is located amongst the rocks that comprise one of the four (former) anchors for the lookout structure. It is under just a few rocks on top.
To reach the trailhead from the Lake Koocanusa side to the west, turn off of MT-37 onto FS Road 619. Junction is about 49 miles from intersection of US 2 and MT-37 in Libby. Travel about 4.5 mi to FS road 7980, turn left. Go about 6.5 miles to FS road 494, turn right. In about 8 miles you will arrive at trailhead on your right; small parking area on the left.
Area can also be reached from the Eureka area to link up with FS road 494, also known as Homestead Drive. Consult a FS map, or check out the McGuire Trailhead geocache information.