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Best wildlife hikes in Flathead County
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Best wildlife hikes in Flathead County

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

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

Medium

Huckleberry Mountain via Huckleberry Lookout Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (26) · 16.0 km · Est. 4 hrs 29 min

4

Difficult

Marion Creek and Marion Lake Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (30) · 11.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 50 min

5

Difficult

Mount Aeneas and Picnic Lakes Loop

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.4 (37) · 10.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 8 min

6

Difficult

Jewel Basin Road Out and Back

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.4 (40) · 9.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 26 min

7

Medium

Dollar Lake and Little Beaver Lake Loop

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.7 (6) · 3.6 km · Est. 56 min

8

Medium

Danny On Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (44) · 12.8 km · Est. 3 hrs 36 min

9

Easy

Little Beaver Lake and Rainbow Lake via Whitefish Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.6 (32) · 34.9 km · Est. 1 day 3 hrs

10

Difficult

Swiftcurrent Mountain via Granite Park Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.6 (48) · 19.8 km · Est. 1 day 1 hrs

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Reviews for wildlife 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.

Dr. Rosanna O'Keefe avatar

Huckleberry Mountain via Huckleberry Lookout Trail

AshExplorer70 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Jesse Klocko DC avatar

Marion Creek and Marion Lake Trail

TrekFinder53 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Prof. Cyrus Cartwright avatar

Mount Aeneas and Picnic Lakes Loop

FrostPebbleseeker71 路 reviewed almost 2 years 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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