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Best river hikes in Flathead County
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Best river hikes in Flathead County

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Flathead County.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Swan River Hiking Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.4 (47) · 6.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 23 min

2

Easy

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (47) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

3

Easy

Harrison Lake via South Boundary

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (28) · 39.1 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

4

Easy

Grace Lake and Logging Lake

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.4 (32) · 20.2 km · Est. 4 hrs 41 min

5

Easy

Howe Lake

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (32) · 6.1 km · Est. 1 hrs 25 min

6

Difficult

Strawberry Lake

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.6 (37) · 8.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 30 min

7

Easy

Whitefish Trail - Swift Creek Loop

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.4 (37) · 2.4 km · Est. 32 min

8

Easy

Upper McDonald Creek - Lake McDonald

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.8 (38) · 8.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 53 min

9

Medium

Crater, Birch and Squaw Lakes via Alpine Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (49) · 17.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 27 min

10

Easy

Johns Lake and McDonald Creek Loop

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (46) · 3.2 km · Est. 45 min

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Reviews for river hikes in Flathead County

Prof. Cami Abbott avatar

Swan River Hiking Trail

RavineGraniterover90 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Melanie avatar

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Adventure Seeker 路 reviewed 4 months ago

star star star star star

The Trail of Cedars is a very busy trail that's more like walking on a deck that leads to the Avalanche lake trail. Along the way, you will pass many water features, including some waterfalls and eventually, this leads to Avalanche Lake. Good trail, but way too many people.

Diego Orn avatar

Harrison Lake via South Boundary

HarborHorizon12 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Leland Farrell avatar

Grace Lake and Logging Lake

RoverAspenseeker93 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Windy Schinner avatar

Howe Lake

RangerWoodsman52 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Flathead County

What is the climate like for hiking in Montana?

With Montana's continental climate, the summer season, from June to September, offers the most comfortable hiking conditions. The weather is typically warm and sunny, making trails in areas like Glacier National Park particularly inviting. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so hikers should be prepared.
Autumn, from September to November, showcases vibrant fall colors, with milder temperatures ideal for hiking. Winter, though, is severe, with heavy snowfall limiting access to many trails. Spring can be unpredictable, with lingering snow and wet conditions in many areas, delaying the hiking season.
Therefore, the best time to hike in Montana is generally summer, particularly in July and August. Hikers should always check weather conditions and trail status ahead of time, using resources like the Montana Wilderness Association (https://wildmontana.org/discover-the-wild/hike-wild-montana) for detailed information.

Do I need a permit to hike in Montana?

Hiking in Montana often doesn't require permits, but certain areas like Glacier National Park require them for backcountry camping. Check specifics with relevant park services or on the official U.S. National Park Service website (https://www.nps.gov/index.htm) to ensure adherence to local rules and regulations.

Is wild camping allowed in Montana?

Wild camping in Montana's national forests is generally permitted, subject to specific rules and restrictions. It's recommended to verify local regulations via the U.S. Forest Service website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/superior/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=36905&actid=34). Always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

Are there mountain rescue services in Montana?

In case of an emergency while hiking in Montana, contact local authorities by dialing 911. The county sheriff's office typically coordinates search and rescue efforts. Hikers can also refer to the Mountain Rescue Association's website (https://mra.org/) for additional resources and safety information.

Are there dangerous plants in Montana?

Montana's trails take hikers through diverse ecosystems, from grasslands to alpine meadows, populated by prairie flowers, Ponderosa pines, and western larch. Hikers should be aware of poison ivy in lower altitudes. More information can be found on the Montana Field Guide website (http://fieldguide.mt.gov/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Montana?

Hikers in Montana may encounter diverse wildlife such as elk, moose, bears, and mosquitoes. It's crucial to keep a safe distance from large mammals and carry bear spray when in bear country. The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website (http://fwp.mt.gov/) offers detailed wildlife encounter guidelines.

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