Difficulty: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

Allen Peak Trail – 4.7 miles

After about ¼ mile the trail crosses Silver Butte Fisher River. This can be a difficult crossing for hikers in late spring and early summer. After the crossing, this is a very steep climb that gains almost 3000 feet in about 2.7 miles. Elevation gain the next 1.2 miles is about 1000 feet and the last .8 miles drops about 1000 feet to the junction of the Waloven/Himes Trail #293. The trail follows and crosses Road #2301 several times before reaching the top of Allen Peak.

Many recreationists choose to use the #2301 road for access to Allen Peak instead of the trail. The road adds an additional 2+ miles if you take it from the first switchback. This trail has not been maintained for several years, and when maintained it is only sporadic, so expect significant down fall, and washing on the steeper sections. You may have some difficulty following the trail along the upper ridge due to lack of tread in the open areas, but it’s a narrow ridge so it is not difficult to stay on the ridge. The 40 acres with communication equipment is privately owned, so be considerate as you pass through this area. 

The trail ascends steeply and consistently over its 3.7 mile length. The Allen Peak summit provides unexpected vistas of the south end of the Cabinet Mountains as well as the ridges that march away from you to the south and east. You must cross Silver Butte Creek, so be prepared to wade.

The trail ascends fairly steeply at about 1,000 feet per mile. It intersects the Allen Peak road at several locations, and then follows the road once you hit the ridge for about a half mile. This road serves the communication station just below the summit. The final pitch is a lovely trail winding through subalpine habitat. You’ll ascend through several different forest habitat types as you climb, from western red cedar at the bottom through ponderosa pine, western larch, lodgepole pine and reach the summit in a subalpine habitat. Huckleberries dominate the understory once you get above 5,000’. Huckleberries=bears

Allen Peak is also accessible from other directions, but would require an overnight for most people.

Directions from Libby:

Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road. Proceed up Silver Butte for 5 miles to the trailhead on the left. 

DIFFICULTY: Moderately Strenuous 

Baree Creek Trail – 3.28 miles

The Baree Creek trail provides access to the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, the Cabinet Divide Trail # 360 and Baree Lake. This trail would be a nice family day hike or overnight backpack trip. The trail has limited use for snowshoeing in the winter. Special attractions include a scenic falls one mile up from the trailhead; scenic views into Baree Creek beginning at about 2 miles; and Baree Lake at approximately 3 miles. The
junction of the Baree Trail and the Cabinet Divide Trail has excellent views into Silver Butte drainage, and Baree Lake to the east and Swamp Creek drainage to the west.

For explorer’s and history buffs, there are remnants of a small old log cabin just southeast of the lake and foundation just north of the lake. The adventurous can hike the ridge for another 1.5 miles to Baree Mountain for stunning views. During late July and August there is generally good huckleberry picking in this area. This is bear country so bring your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Travel 28 miles South on US Highway 2. Turn right (southwest) onto the Silver Butte Road # 148 and continue 10.3 miles to the trailhead. Turn right (north) and drive under powerline.

Difficulty: Moderate

Barren Peak Trail – 2.6 miles

The Barren Peak Trail provides access to the Divide Trail # 6. Once you get to the divide there are scenic views of the West Fisher River, Silver Butte Fisher River, Porcupine Creek drainage, and Jumbo Peak. Barren Peak is about a mile up the Divide Trail to the east.
The historic Barren Peak lookout has collapsed, but the remnants remain on site.
Trail #299 is a popular hunting trail due to its connection with the Divide Trail #6S. Once you get to the Divide Trail; there are several loop trail options. Common loops include hiking up the #299 Trail and heading east down the Divide Trail #6S trail about 5 ½ miles to the 1 mile on the West Fisher Road or heading west down the Divide Trail for 2 miles to the junction with the 2314 road system and hiking down this road system for about 5 miles back to the West Fisher Road. The 2314 and West Fisher junction is just past the 5 mile marker. The Barren Peak Trail is an 8-mile long (16 miles roundtrip) trail that offers great views of the South Cabinet Mountains to its hikers! Barren Lookout may be considered the destination of the hike, as it features a rewarding view. A majority of the trail cuts through open parks, which makes the trail perfect for camping.

Trail End: Trail 6 continues to Porcupine Mountain and beyond.

This is a steep, periodically maintained trail that provides access to Trail # 6 and Barren Peak. The trail is in poor condition for stock and not recommended due to trail condition and steepness.

Directions from Libby: 

25 miles south of Libby on Highway 2. Turn right onto the Libby West Fisher Road. The first access is approximately 1 mile up this road, signed on the right, and begins immediately across the creek. The second access is 4.25 miles off US 2 on the same road and signed on the left. Paved highway, then gravel road access.

DIFFICULTY: Strenuous

Bear Lakes Trail – 2.8 miles

Provides access to Bear Lakes. The main trail does not go down to the lakes, but there is a spur trail that takes you to the middle Lake. Once you pass Bear Lakes, the scenery is stunning with views into the South Cabinets. Consider the Baree/Bear Lakes loop for a 10 mile round trip.

This is a fairly steep trail the entire distance but the first mile is the worst with lots of roots and washing in the trail. Trail conditions improve just before the Bear Lakes as the grade lessens. Connect with the Cutoff Trail #63 to the Cabinet Divide Trail. There are some large boulder scree areas between Bear Lakes Trail and the Divide that can be hazardous for stock. This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road on the right. Proceed up Silver Butte for 9.4 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous

Bear Paw Trail – 2.1 miles

This short Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail leads from the end of FSR 1022 to Goat Ridge Trail #921. From this junction, Goat Ridge Trail #921 continues up Goat Ridge to the junction with Wanless Lake Trail #924, and in the opposite direction Goat Ridge Trail #921 leads out to Green Mountain.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 200 approximately milepost 18 turn east onto FSR 1022 which is directly opposite Noxon Rapids Dam entrance road. Continue on FSR 1022 approximately 4.5 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate (stream crossing, during high run off)

Bobtail Ridge Trail – 8.5 miles

This is a great hiking, equine and mountain bike use area just outside of Libby. There are numerous open and closed roads connecting to this trail, with ample opportunities for loop hikes or rides from the Bobtrail or Quartz Creek Sides. Many locations on the trail provide scenic views of the Cabinet Mountains, the Kootenai River, the Libby Valley, Quartz Creek and Bobtail Creek.

The trail is a popular mountain bike trail and is well maintained by mountain bike users; so it is generally in good condition for all user types. If you access the trail near the top off the 6704 Road it has an over-all descent for 8.5 miles. A spur trail off the ridge near the midpoint of this trail will take you to the top of Lindy Peak where there’s an old tree lookout and a Geocache site. Large ponderosa pine and wildflowers are abundant on the ridge.

Directions from Libby: head east on Highway 37, cross the river and take the first left on River Road. Stay on the River Road for about 4.5 miles and take a right at the junction of the Quartz Creek Road #600. Stay on the Quartz Creek for about 1.5 miles and turn right on the 6144 Road. Follow this road for about a mile to the ridge nose and lower trailhead. To access the top portion of the trail take the Quartz Creek road for about 5 miles, turn right on the 6145 Road for 1.5 miles, and turn left on the 6704 Road for about 2 miles to the upper trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Blacktail Trail – 4.5 miles

The Blacktail Trail is a 4.5-mile long (9 miles roundtrip) trail that starts steep for the first 3 miles to the ridge-top, then turns into a more simple hike. After those first 3 miles, beautiful scenery is featured the rest of the way. The trail is perfect for rugged day hikes, but not recommended for overnight trips. 

This trail climbs steeply for the first 3 miles to the ridgetop, hiking then becomes easier and scenic vistas can be enjoyed. This trail is suitable for rugged day hikes and short backpacking trips. There is adequate parking at Waloven-Himes trailhead for 2 vehicles, but turnaround space is limited. No restrooms or stock facilities are available.

Directions from Libby:

Travel 28 miles south of Libby on Highway 2 and turn right onto Silver Butte Rd. Then travel 3.5 miles to East River Fisher Rd. and proceed 4.3 miles to Waloven-Himes Trailhead 293. Follow the trailhead for 1 mile to the signed junction with the Blacktail Trail 536.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Bramlet Creek Trail – 2.1 miles

The Bramlet Creek Trail provides one of the shortest hikes to get into the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, and makes a great family adventure. Huckleberries are generally plentiful in late July and early August, and the scenery is spectacular once you get to Bramlet Lake. This area is in the historic Cabinet Mining District which includes the headwaters of West Fisher and Bramlet Creek drainages. The West Fisher Mining Company constructed a wagon road into the Branigan Mine in 1899, making the historic Bramlet trail one of the earliest trails constructed in Lincoln County.

This trail takes off at a road junction just north of the Branigan Mine. Much of the trail is located on old mining roads, with a fairly steep climb in the mid-section. The reward at the end of the trail is the Cabinet Wilderness, crystal clear Bramlet Lake, and views of Carney Peak. Hikers can bushwack for another ½ mile and 400’ elevation gain to Upper Bramlet Lake. Bramlet Lake trail is generally in good condition for stock and hikers.

Directions from Libby:

Head south on Highway 2 for 25 miles to the West Fisher Road (about mile marker 57). 6 miles up the West Fisher, take a left on the 2332 Road for ¾ mile and take the right fork just before the Lake Creek Campground. Follow the 2332 road for another 2.7 miles to the end of the road and the trailhead. The 2332 Road is washed and rough once you take the right fork just before the Lake Creek Campground

Difficulty: Moderate

Cabinet Divide East Trail – 11.1miles

Trail #360E is in an inventoried roadless area and provides a pristine experience for visitors. This fairly rugged trail passes through some beautiful open ridge line alpine habitat with old growth subalpine forest in the basins below the ridge and provides excellent high elevation hunting opportunities. There are many day hike
opportunities with the numerous loop trail opportunities to tie into the Silver Butte Creek Trail, the Silver Butte Road, and the Waloven Trail. Also provides access to the Canyon Peak Trail #903.

Trail 360E can be essentially divided into two trails – Silver Butte Pass to road #594 and from Silver Butte Pass to the Waloven Trail #293. Both halves climb considerably and you’ll need to pay close attention to tree blazes and rock cairns. The true trailhead is located off powerline road #594, however the majority access this trail off the Silver Butte Road. Water availability is very marginal to non-existing on both halves. This is great grizzly bear habitat, so bring your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Travel 28 miles south of Libby on US Highway 2. Turn right on the Silver Butte Road #148 and proceed for 11 miles to the Powerline Road #594. Park just past this road junction, and travel about 5 miles on the closed 594 road to the Cabinet Divide and the trailhead on the left. This trail can also be accessed off the Silver Butte Road at the pass about 13 miles up.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Cabinet Divide North Trail – 8.6miles

This is one of the most spectacular trails in the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness. It passes above and around numerous drainages, alpine lakes, alpine meadows and mountain tops and offers rugged scenery, wildlife, wildflowers, alpine lakes, alpine meadows, mountaintops, primitive camp sites and a rigorous hiking experience. The most popular destination is the side hike to Dome Mountain.

Trail #360N is the backbone of the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness. The majority of the trail has a rocky tread, so stock users will need to use caution. Water availability is marginal throughout the majority of trail #360N. There is water below Sugarloaf Mountain and a small spring north of Dome
Mountain. This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Travel 4.5 miles west on US Highway 2 and turn left onto the Cedar Creek Road. Travel 2.5 miles to Cedar Creek Trailhead #141. Hike the #141 Trail for 5.5 miles to Upper Cedar Lake and take the Cabinet Divide Trail. This trail can also be accessed via the Parmenter Trail #141 and the Flower Creek Trail #137.

Trail accesses the Cabinet Divide in the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Cabinet Divide South Trail – 5.5miles

This is one of the most scenic trails on Libby District with views of the Cabinet Mountains, and several alpine lakes. Trail #360S provides connectivity for several loop opportunities. Connectivity includes Swamp Creek to the west, and Geiger, Bear, Baree and the Powerline access road to the east. In late July and early August there is generally good huckleberry picking along the ridge. This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

This is an easy trail once you get to the ridge; but is moderately steep for most access trails to get there. The northern 1.5 mile section is not recommended for stock due to several sections of large boulders that the trail passes through. The southern 3 miles are excellent horse trails with several 10-12 mile loop options. Keep in mind that the elevation change from Silver Butte Road to the ridge is well over 2000’ in about 3 miles.

Water availability is marginal to nonexistent.

Directions from Libby: There are several options to access this trail. For access to the northern end of the trail, head south on Highway 2 for about 25 miles to the West Fisher Road #231 (about mile marker 57). Proceed up the West Fisher Road for 6 miles, take the Geiger Lakes Road #6748 for 1.5
miles to the Geiger Lakes Trail, and proceed up this trail for 3.81 miles.

Or head south on Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road # 148 (about mile marker 60). Proceed up Silver Butte for about 9.4 miles to the Bear Lakes Trail # 178 for 2.8 miles to the Cutoff Trail #63, for another 1.2 miles to the Divide Trail. About 10.3 miles up the Silver Butte road, take the Baree Creek Trail # 489 for 3.3 miles to the Divide Trail or continue for 11 miles to the Powerline Road # 594, and take this road for about 6 miles to the south end of the Divide Trail.

Difficulty: Moderate

 
Cedar Creek Trail – 4.5 miles

The trail runs adjacent to Cedar Creek for its entire length. The lower portion of the trail was once used as a wagon road for early day mining. This trail is suitable for horseback riding.

Cedar Lakes Trail – 5 miles (follow Cedar Creek Trail guide)

The Cedar Lakes Trail is a 5-mile long (10-mile roundtrip) hiking trail that lines the beautiful Cedar Creek. This is a great trail for the whole family, as it maintains a steady incline and is shaded by tall cedar trees. The end of the trail rewards hikers with a remarkable view of the Cedar Lakes. Campsites are also available throughout the trail.

Trail #141 follows Cedar Creek relatively closely all the way to Lower Cedar Lake, which is accessed by a short spur trail. Old growth forest lines the creek bottom, but flames from the 1994 Scenery Mountain Fire approached the creek in many places.

The upper lake is about 400 vertical feet above the lower lake and sits in a basin walled with cliffs and crags rising to the unseen summit of Dome Mountain. Upper Cedar Lake is the third-largest lake in the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness. Both have resident populations of cutthroat trout.

Primitive campsites can be found at both lakes. To minimize impact to the fragile wilderness environment, it is recommended that you utilize existing campsites. Trail #141 is part of a network of trails that allows for open or closed loops in the north end of the wilderness. Consult a wilderness map to plan a variety of routes.

Directions from Libby: Travel 4.5 miles west on Highway 2, then turn left onto Cedar Creek Rd. and travel 2.5 miles to the trailhead. Parking area provided.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Dad Peak – 6.77miles 

Dad Peak Trail #987 provides access to the Dad Peak area from Snake Creek Pass. This trail is mostly used by mountain bikers and stock users since the first 3.8 miles of trail is on FSR 2289. Wilderness travelers are greeted with stunning views of many peaks within the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness once they reach the end of the trail near Dad Peak. Devil’s Club Trail #966 continues past Dad Peak and drops into the North Fork of the East Fork of Bull River.

Directions from Libby:

Dad Peak Trail #987 can be accessed from two different directions:

From MT Hwy 56 milepost 8, turn east onto FSR 407 and travel approximately 3.5 miles to the FSR 407 and FSR 410 junction. Continue another four miles on FSR 410 to the trailhead located at Snake Creek Pass.

From MT Hwy 56 milepost 17, turn east onto FSR 410 and travel approximately 10 miles to the trailhead at Snake Creek Pass.

Difficulty: Moderate

Devil’s Club Trail – 4.2miles

Devil’s Club Trail #966 traverses the head end of the North Fork of the Bull River basin below Dad Peak. Stunning views of Cabinet Mountains Wilderness peaks can be seen from the trail. The trail “ends” at the old Dad Peak lookout site to the south of Dad Peak (elevation 6790’). Dad Peak Trail #987 continues downhill to the west. A couple of primitive, dispersed campsites can be found on the ridgeline below Dad Peak.

Devil’s Club Trail #966 crosses Devil’s Club Creek and the North Fork of the Bull River. Both crossings can be challenging and dangerous during high runoff.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 56 milepost 8, turn east onto FSR 407 and travel approximately 8 miles to the end of the road and the trailhead.

Difficulty: Very Strenuous

Divide Cutoff Trail – 3.3miles

Provides access from Iron Meadows and Bear Lakes Trails to the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, and Cabinet Divide South Trail. Once you pass Bear Lakes, the scenery is stunning with views into the South Cabinets.
This is a cutoff trail from the Cabinet Divide to Iron Meadows #113. The section from Iron meadows to the Junction of Bear Lakes #178 has some steep sections. A spur trail accesses middle Bear Lake . From Bear Lakes to the Cabinet Divide, the trail traverses through several large scree areas that
can be difficult for horses due to the large size of the boulders and lack of trail tread through these areas. This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road on the right. Proceed up Silver Butte for 8.7 miles to the Iron Meadows Trailhead or 9.4 miles to the Bear Lakes Trailhead. Trail #63 connects the Iron Meadows and Bear Lakes Trails to the
Cabinet Divide Trail #360S 

Difficulty: Strenuous

Divide Trail South – 11.3miles

The majority of the trail is located along the ridge between the West Fisher River and Silver Butte Fisher River. While much of the trail is in a moderately closed canopy, there are several areas that open to spectacular views. The best views are on the first two miles with views of the Fisher River Valley and the western section of the trail with views of the Cabinet Mountains. Traditionally a hunting trail, but summer horseback use is increasing.
The trail immediately crosses the West Fisher River and can be difficult for stock and hikers in late spring and early summer. The first mile is gentle along closed forest roads, and then climbs about 2400 feet in the next 2 miles toward Barren Peak. The subsequent 2 miles to the west are undulating until it drops into Trapper Creek and once again has a fairly steep grade for a mile climbing out of Trapper Creek before dropping again at a fairly steep grade
into Iron Meadows. The trail is in good condition for stock and hikers and provides connectivity for several loop opportunities. Trails accessing the Divide
Trail include; Porcupine Creek, Porcupine Ridge, Olson Creek, Trapper Creek and Iron Meadows off the Silver Butte Road and Barren Peak, Iron Meadows and Silver Dollar off the West Fisher Road.

Directions from Libby: Head south on Highway 2 for 27 miles to the West Fisher Road # 231. Trail 6S is at the 1 mile on the West Fisher Road and shortly crosses the West Fisher River. This trail can also be accessed from numerous trails further up the West Fisher Road as well as numerous trails off the
Silver Butter Road; which is another 3 miles south on Highway 2.

Difficulty: Moderate

Elk Lake Trail – 1 mile

Elk Lake Trail #882 is a short well maintained trail that leads to Elk Lake. The basin is popular with fishermen and hunters. 

There are multiple dispersed campsites, and ample parking, however FSR 2232 is a very rough road. 

Directions from Libby: Take US Hwy 2 west, to route 56. Turn left on 56 for 54 miles. At MT Hwy 200, at approximately milepost 28, turn east on to Blue Slide Road. Travel 4 miles to FSR 154, turn left. 9 miles to the junction with FSR 2232, the trailhead is approximately 3 miles up. 

Difficulty: Easy

Engle Lake Trail – 3.5 miles

This Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail leads to Engle Lake and Engle Peak. The trail climbs steeply to the wilderness boundary approximately one mile from the trailhead then follows a ridgeline towards Engle Peak and Engle Lake basin. Spectacular views of peaks within the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness and the Clark Fork Valley can be seen from the ridgeline. Several dispersed campsites are located around Engle Lake and small cutthroat trout are in the lake.

Directions from Libby:

Difficulty: Moderate

Fourth of July Trail – 3 miles

Provides access to the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness at the end of the trail just before it ties in with the Lake Creek Trail on the ridge above Geiger Lakes. Scenery is spectacular once you cross the ridge into the Geiger Lakes basin. This trail provides a pleasant 7 mile loop from 4th of July to
Geiger Lakes and down the Lake Creek Trail. Add another 3.5 miles if you don’t shuttle a vehicle. The 4th of July mining trail was constructed in the late 1800’s making it one of the earliest trails in Lincoln County. It was included on Forest maps as early as 1903.

Directions from Libby: Head south on Highway 2 for 25 miles to the West Fisher Road (about mile marker 57). 6 miles up the West Fisher, take a left on the 2332 Road for 3⁄4 mile and take the right fork just before the Lake Creek Campground for another 1.2 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

Goat Ridge Trail – 9.19 miles

This Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail follows Goat Ridge from Green Mountain to the upper slopes of Goat Peak (6889’). The section of trail from the end of FSR 2282 to the junction with Bear Paw Trail #923 receives very little use. The section from Bear Paw Trail #923 to the junction with Wanless Lake Trail #924 receives most of the use and offers travelers a loop opportunity when hiking in this area.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 200 approximately milepost 18 turn east onto FSR 1022 which is directly opposite Noxon Rapids Dam entrance road. Continue on FSR 1022 approximately 2 miles to the gate/trailhead on FSR 2282.

Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous

Granite Creek Trail – 6.3 miles

The grade of the trail is fairly easy. The trail crosses Granite Creek four times, so be prepared to get your feet wet, depending on the season. Watch for Devil’s Club and stinging nettles in the last section of trail. Carry pepper spray and expect wildlife on or near the trail, and bring bug spray if you are camping at the lake. There are two locations that can be hazardous to stock; a rocky outcrop about 1/2 mile up and the stream crossing at about 3 1/2 miles.

The entire length of this trail parallels Granite Creek. The first section was burned in a wildfire in 2015 but the vegetation is recovering. The middle third of the trail traverses through a large grove of giant cedars at at about 2.5 miles in, there is a nice campsite near beautiful Granite Falls. The last third of the trail passes through some high brush, but at the end of the trail hikers are rewarded with a breathtaking view of A Peak as it towers above Granite Lake.

Directions from Libby: Travel south on US Highway 2 and turn right onto Shaughnessy “Golf Course” Hill Road across from the Industrial Park. Turn left at the 3-way intersection at the top of the hill and follow Snowshoe road for .5 mile. Turn right onto Granite Creek Road #618 and drive 8 miles to the trailhead. Trailer parking and roadside stock loading ramp is provided .3 miles before the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate (the first 2 miles to the falls are considered Easy)

Great Northern Mountain Trail – 3.2 miles

Attractions include the Howard Lake Campground, adjacent fishing, swimming and boating on Howard Lake. An additional attraction is the historic mining in this area. The trail from Howard Lake to the Standard Creek Road and the Great Northern Mining Claims was likely constructed in the early 1900’s to access mining claims. From the junction with the Old Standard Creek Road, it is another 2+ miles to Great Northern Summit.

Directions from Libby: Travel 12 miles south on Highway 2 and turn right onto the Libby Creek Road # 231. Follow this road for 14 miles and as it drops into the West Fisher drainage, there will be a Howard Lake Campground sign to the right. Follow this road for about a mile to the campground and
trailhead. This trail can also be accessed via the Miller Creek and West Fisher Roads about 25 miles south of Libby on Highway 2.

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Hanging Valley Trail – 2.8 miles

The first 2 miles on the Flower Creek Trail passes through forested to moderately open forested south slopes above Flower Creek and transitions to closed forest to the junction with Hanging Valley Trail. The Hanging Valley Trail is a primitive, moderately open forested trail with ample rocks, root’s and scree to Lower Hanging Valley Lake and transitions to a forested subalpine basin to Upper Hanging Valley Lake. This setting offers unobstructed views of Treasure Mountain.

This trail has a fairly steep grade to Lower Hanging Valley Lake and a moderate grade between Lower and Upper Hanging Valley Lake. The trail is well known for its grueling assent and rocky terrain. Dead trees are abundant along the trail, so expect some downfall. This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

Because trail conditions are primitive with lots of rock and roots it is not suitable for stock.

Directions from Libby: Travel south on Highway 2 and turn right onto the Shaughnessy “Golf Course” Hill Road. Turn left at the 3-way intersection at the top of the hill and follow Snowshoe road for .5 mile. Turn right on the Flower Creek Road 128 for approximately 6 miles to the trailhead. Hike the Flower Creek Trail for about three miles and the Hanging Valley Trail is about 1⁄4 mile past the wilderness boundary.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Historic Highway 2 – 2.3 miles

The trail is the historic roadbed of Old Highway 2 and offers easy grades and a good trail base. It is an easy hike or bike on an old dirt road that is overgrown but easily traveled.

This is an excellent family hike and educational experience. There are several signs along the trail providing historic information as well as information about flora and geology. This elevated trail provides scenic vistas of the Kootenai River and much of Kootenai Falls is visible from the trail.

Directions from Libby: Head west on Highway 2 for about 11 miles to a small trailhead parking area on the left. The trailhead is between the 22 and 21 mile marker and if you get to the Kootenai Falls Parking lot, you have gone too far. This trail can also be accessed from MT Highway 56 via the Shannon Lake Road.

Difficulty: Easy

The Hoskins Lake Trail is a 2.4-mile long (4.8 miles roundtrip) hiking trail that is great for those who love to hike and fish! The trail has no steep hills, so it is perfect for children. Camping areas are available either along the trail or at the lake. 

Directions from Libby: Take Pipe Creek Rd. over the divide and into the Yaak. Take a right onto Vinal Lake Rd. and continue for 7.3 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Easy

Howard Lake Trail – 1.7 miles

The trail circles Howard Lake beginning and ending at the campground. The southern portion of the trail is on the Old Showshoe Road template, providing an easy grade and wide path. The northern portion is a typical hiking trail with 2’ tread, rocks and roots and some small elevation changes. Excellent hike for families. The road to the campground opens in May and closes in October so plan an extra mile hike each way if you are hiking in the off season. Or tie into the
south end of the trail off Libby Creek Fisher River Road #231.

Attractions include the Howard Lake Campground, adjacent fishing, swimming and boating on Howard Lake. The Old Showshoe Road was constructed during the mid to late 1800’s to provide access to the original town of Libby and numerous mines in the area. This historic road template now provides the southern portion of the trail
The scenery is stunning year round, but the fall colors are spectacular. The north side of the trail provides views of Shaw and Great Northern Mountain.

Directions from Libby: Travel 12 miles south on Highway 2 and turn right onto the Libby Creek Road # 231. Follow this road for 14 miles and as it drops into the West Fisher drainage, there will be a Howard Lake Campground sign to the right. Follow this road for about a mile to the campground and trailhead. This trail can also be access via the Miller Creek and West Fisher Roads about 25 miles south of Libby on Highway 2.

Difficulty: Easy

Indian Head Trail – 3.5 miles

The trail provides access to the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, and views of lakes and mountain peaks in the northern end of the Cabinet Wilderness. There is a Geocache Site on Indian Head Mountain, and it is also the location of electronic equipment for Libby’s television.

Trail #14 maintains a steep, difficult and steady grade to the top. There are a few areas near the top that the trail tread disappears, but it is not too hard to relocate the trail. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular and worth the arduous hike. Sky and Hanging valley lakes may be viewed from this trail. Stock use is not recommended.
This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Travel south on Highway 2 and turn right onto the Shaughnessy Road (Golf Course Hill). Turn left at the 3-way intersection at the top of the hill and follow the Snowshoe road for .5 mile. Turn right on Flower Creek Road 128 for approximately 5 miles to the trailhead where there is ample parking. Take the Parmenter Tie Trail #40 for about 1⁄4 mile until you see the Indian Head Trail sign.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Iron Meadows Trail – 4.2 miles

This trail provides access to the Divide Cutoff Trail # 63, the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, and the Divide Trail 6N with numerous loop opportunities including Bear Lakes, Cabinet Divide, Baree Creek, Trapper Creek, Olson Creek on the Silver Butte side and Silver Dollar Trail on the West Fisher Side.

Iron Meadows is a historic mining trail was one of the earliest trails constructed in the area and was on the 1903 maps. It extended in much its current location from Silver Butte to the divide and down Trail Creek to the West Fisher.

This is a gradual trail through closed forest with limited scenic options. It is used primarily for hunting and for access to the Divide Trail #6, and the Divide Cutoff Trail #63. The northern section in Trail
Creek is utilized to make a loop from the Silver Dollar Trail #114 down the Trail Creek Road System to the West Fisher Road. When cleared, the trail is in good condition for stock and hikers, and may offer mountain biking opportunities.

This is grizzly bear country so take your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road on the right. Proceed up Silver Butte for 8.7 miles to the Iron Meadows Trailhead. This trail connects to the Divide Cutoff Trail #63 for connection to the Bear Lakes Trail #178 and the Cabinet Divide Trail #360S.

Difficulty: Moderate

Kenelty Caves Trail – 0.8 miles

Caves with stalagmites are a rare occurrence in this area, so the caves are a welcome opportunity. There are several cave openings to the east of the first cave, but there are no trails to these openings so hike around a bit if you want to see them.

This is a short but fairly steep trail that can be difficult to follow, poor tread and marking so watch for blazes.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for about 30 miles and take the Raven Creek Road # 761 (just past the Raven Work Center). Stay on the 761 road for about a mile and take the left fork onto the 763 road. Stay on the 763 road for about 4 miles and take a right onto the Sedlak 6753 road. About a half mile up the Sedlak Road take the left fork, stay on this road until it crosses Sedlak Creek (about 3⁄4 mile) and take the first junction to the right. Proceed another 1⁄4 mile to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Leigh Lake Trail – 2miles

This is a short, steep trail that is heavily used as an access point into the wilderness and Leigh Lake. There is a scenic falls at about 1.5 miles, and excellent views of Snowshoe Peak, Bockman Peaks and Leigh Creek available along the trail. Mountain goats are commonly seen above the lake, and huckleberries can be found along the trail in late summer.

This is a relatively steep trail that is quite brush and has only fair tread. At the 1.5 mile and the falls, the trail splits and there are two primitive trail options, one on each side of Leigh Creek. Both trails climb steeply for another 150 vertical feet. Access to the south spur may be limited depending on water level, and this last section may be difficult for some hikers. If solitude is your goal this may not be the best trail due to its heavy use.
This trail is not suitable for stock.

The Leigh Lake trail leading to the famous Leigh Lake, known for its incredibly clear waters.  The trail crosses waterfalls, overlooks Leigh Lake, and is back-dropped by Snowshoe Mountain, making the visual experience incredible. There is also a high chance that you will be hiking with mountain goats while on your scenic hike! Camping spots are not available.

Directions from Libby: Travel 7 miles south on Highway 2 and turn right onto Bear Creek Rd. Travel 3 miles to Cherry Creek Rd. 867 and turn right. Follow the road for 4 miles, then turn right onto Leigh Creek Rd. 476 and follow for 2 miles until you reach the trailhead. 

Difficulty: Moderate

Libby Divide Trail – 6.8miles

The main attraction for this trail is access to the ridge between Miller Creek and Midas Creek, scenic views of the Cabinet Mountains and the Historic Horse Mountain Lookout Site. The lookout has been burned, but there are remnants of the foundation. All or portions of the trail are commonly used for hunting access.

Libby Divide & Miller Creek Junction

Most of the trail is a moderate grade, but the first mile and the last mile to Horse Mountain climb at a fairly steep grade. From Horse Mountain the trail drops fairly quickly to the 4776 Road. Some sections through the open areas need tread work and the
trail can be difficult to follow in these areas; so watch for blazes and cairns.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for about 25 miles to the Miller Creek Road # 385, at about mile marker 56. At about 3 miles, take the South Fork Road # 4724. The trailhead is about 8 miles up, just before the junction with the 4780 road at the ridge. This trail can also be accessed from the Libby Creek Road #231 about 12 miles south of Libby on Highway 2. About 6 miles up, take the Hoodoo 4776 road for about 4 miles to the northern trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderately Strenuous

Miller Ridge Trail – 4.7miles

This trail accesses the Libby Divide/Horse Mountain Trail System, and provides a nice 9 mile hiking or horseback loop up the Miller Ridge Trail to a 1⁄4 mile section on the Libby Divide Trail, and down the North Fork Miller Creek Trail. Hint – hike up the NF Miller Trail and down the Miller Ridge Trail. The Miller Creek drainage offers vibrant fall colors as the larch turn.

This trail is commonly used for hunting access.

Trail is rarely maintained, so expect downfall. The first 3⁄4 mile is steep and climbs almost 1000’ in elevation to the ridge. This section can be difficult to follow so watch for blazes. With the exception of periodic clearing needs, the ridgeline section of the trail is generally in fair condition and easy to follow through the timber, but you will need to watch for cairns and blazes in the openings.

Directions from Libby: From Libby, travel south on US Highway 2 for about 25 miles. Turn right onto Miller Creek Road # 385 at about mile marker 56 and follow for 2.5 miles to the junction with road #385 and road # 4724. The upper portion of the trail can be accessed off the Libby Divide Trail. For other access into Miller Creek, see the NF Miller Creek Trail # 505, the South Fork Miller Creek Trail # 118, and Horse Mountain/Libby Divide # 716.

Difficulty: Moderate

NF Miller Creek Trail – 3.2miles

This trail accesses the Libby Divide/Horse Mountain Trail System and makes a nice day hike. Also provides excellent hiking or horseback loops that tie in with the Libby Divide trail, the Miller Ridge trail and the NF Miller Creek Trail. Beautiful fall colors as the larch turn.

This trail is commonly used for hunting access.

Trail is rarely maintained, so expect downfall for about a mile once you leave the 4725 road to the next road. The trail is generally in good condition from the upper road to the Libby Divide Trail.

Directions from Libby: Travel south on US Highway 2 for about 25 miles. Turn right onto Miller Creek Road # 385 at about the 56 mile marker and follow for 3.2 miles to the junction with road #385 and road # 4725. The first half of the trail is on the closed 4725 road.
The upper trailhead can be accessed off the Libby Divide Trail.
For other access into Miller Creek, see the Miller Ridge Trail # 506, the South Fork Miller Creek Trail # 118, and Horse Mountain/Libby Divide # 716.

Difficulty: Moderate

Moran Basin Trail – 11.2miles

This Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail leads to Moran Basin. The trail is mostly used by stock users and mountain bikers due to the fact that the trail follows the gated FSR 2278 for the first 9 miles then follows single track tread up to the wilderness boundary and then drops into the lake basin. Two dispersed campsites are located around the lake, and the lake is stocked with cutthroat trout.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 56 milepost 8, turn east onto FSR 407 and travel approximately two miles to the FSR 407 and FSR 2701 junction. Continue another mile on FSR 2701 and turn right onto FSR 2278. The gate/trailhead is located 1⁄2 mile up FSR 2278.

Difficulty: Very Strenuous

Olson Creek Trail – 3.4miles

The main attraction for this trail is access to the Divide Trail 6S and the loop opportunities this provides. Very few scenic views until you get to the Divide Trail. The highest use loop opportunities include Olson to Trapper Creek Trail, Porcupine Ridge Trail, and Iron Meadows Trails.
The majority of this trail is in good condition for horse and hiker use. There are sections in the upper mile that can be wet early in the season. This is one of the easiest grade trails that access the Divide Trail 6S.

The trail is a commonly used hunting access trail.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road. Proceed up Silver Butte for 7 miles to a small harvest unit and the trailhead sign.

Difficulty: Moderate

Oscar Miller Dispersed Campsite

Dispersed campsite for hikers, horsemen, hunters, fisherman, ATV and Snowmobilers. Easy access to over 50 miles of trail within and adjacent to the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness. The access road is not plowed in the winter, but the site is available for use yearlong.
No potable water, but easy access to the water from the West Fisher River. First come, First serve, No Fee’s, 14 day stay limit.
Bears frequent the area. Mandatory food storage is required.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 25 miles ( mile marker 57), and take the West Fisher Road on the right. Proceed up the West Fisher for 5.5 miles and turn right into the site.

There is a small sign at the entrance.

The Parmenter Creek Trail is 8.5 miles long (17 miles roundtrip) and has moderate difficulty. The trail consists of several wide and flat areas perfect for camping, as well as several swimming holes along the stretch. The trail is also very popular with horseback riders and can lead you to Minor Lake, Parmenter Pass, and Upper Cedar Lake.

Directions from Libby:  Go west 1 block on Highway 2 and turn onto Main St., then follow the road to Balsam St. Turn right and cross Flower Creek Bridge, then turn left. Drive 4 miles and turn left onto Parmenter. At the top of the hill, take the first right and follow to a “Y” in the road, where you will take the unpaved left fork and follow 200 yards to the sign. 

Difficulty: Moderate

Porcupine Creek Trail – 3.5miles

The main attraction of this trail is access to the Divide Trail # 6S and the loop opportunities it provides. There are a few open sections that you can view across the Porcupine drainage, but few scenic vistas.

This trail is commonly used for hunting access.

The first mile of this trail has been re-routed to move it off private lands and it is steep with numerous switchbacks, and has poor tread. After a significant climb it drops back down to Porcupine Creek and the original trail. There is a short flat section and then the trail once again climbs at a fairly steep grade to the divide.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road. Proceed up Silver Butte for 3 miles to a wide spot in the road and the trailhead sign.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Porcupine Ridge Trail – 4miles

The main attraction for this trail is the stunning views of the Cabinet Mountains and access to the Divide Trail 6S. Access to the Divide Trail provides several loop opportunities. 

The first 1.5 miles of this trail is extremely steep and can be difficult for stock as well as hikers. Elevation gain on this section is about 2000 feet. The tread is poor through the open sections of this trail and following the trail can be difficult on the open ridge. Once you are on the ridge in the timber, the trail is in great condition and has a gentle grade to the divide.
If you access Trail 532 from the Divide Trail 6S and do not go down to the Silver Butte Road, it is an excellent stock trail.

Directions from Libby: From Libby, head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles to the Silver Butte Road. Head up the Silver Butte Road for about 5.5 miles and take the powerline road to the right. The trail starts just above the powerline. This trail is also accessed from the Divide Trail 6S.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Rock Lake Trail – 8.2 miles

This popular 8.2-mile Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail leads to Rock Lake. The trail follows an old mining road for the first three miles to the historic Heidelberg Mine then single-track tread climbs the last mile to Rock Lake.  Views of mountain peaks, waterfalls, and alpine meadows can be seen from the trail and lake.  Occasionally moose can be seen in Rock Creek Meadows and mountain goats can often be seen around Rock Lake.  A couple of dispersed campsites exist in the meadows and at the lake.  Cutthroat trout can be found in the lake also.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 200 milepost 17, turn east onto FSR 150.  Travel approximately 6 miles to FSR 150A. Turn right onto FSR 150A and continue approximately 1.5 miles to the end of the road and the trailhead. Ample parking is available for vehicles and horse trailers at the trailhead at the end of FSR 150A.

Difficulty: Moderate (stream crossing)

This ancient grove of cedars features many flat and well-cleared paths that hikers of all ages can enjoy. The educational plaques make this a perfect hike for families. 

The scenic area is 100 acres in size and is home to cedar trees 1,000 years old. A 0.9 mile long accessible loop trail will lead you along a path with informative signs of the history and ecology of the many plant and animal species native to the grove.  There are no camping facilities at the cedar grove. Amenities include vault toilets and 2 picnic tables.

Be aware that the parking area is very difficult to maneuver large trailers!

Directions from Libby: Follow Hwy 2 west for approximately 17 miles to the junction with Hwy 56. Turn and follow for 18 miles (mp 16.84) to the south end of Bull Lake and Ross Creek Cedars road 398. Follow for 4.3 miles to the parking area. Camping can be found at the Bad Medicine Campground just 4 miles from the scenic area.

Difficulty: Easy

The Sheldon area provides well over 25 miles of light to moderate; hiking, horse and mountain bike trails. The area is commonly used for group trail rides. Local users are continuing to enhance trail opportunities and are planning some parallel trails in mountain bike down flow areas to reduce the potential for user conflict.

This is a great hiking, equine and mountain bike use area just outside of Libby. There are numerous trails throughout the area and lots of opportunities for loop hikes or rides. Numerous locations on the trails provide scenic views of the Cabinet Mountains, the Kootenai River and the Libby Valley.

Silver Butte Creek Trail – 3.3-4.3miles

The majority of the trail is within a Roadless Area and passes through un-raveling old growth forests, subalpine habitat and an unnamed lake about 3 miles in from the trailhead. You are rewarded with access to the Cabinet Divide and Trail 360E, and excellent alpine hunting opportunities.

Once you get to the Cabinet Divide there are vistas of the Silver Butte, Vermilion River and Noxon Reservoir areas. From the junction of the Silver Butte Trail and the Cabinet Divide it is about a half mile hike to Canyon Peak and the old lookout site. The lookout was constructed in the 1930’s and abandoned.

Trail is suitable for hiking and stock, but is brushy with mostly narrow corridor due to the amount of large down trees. There are some wet areas with devils club, and several steeper sections.

This is great grizzly bear habitat, so bring your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Travel 28 miles south of Libby on US Highway 2. Turn right on the Silver Butte Road #148 and procede for 11 miles to the Powerline Road #594. Park just past this road junction, and travel one mile on the closed 594 road to the trailhead on the left.

Difficulty: Moderate

Silver Butte Ridge – 3.4miles

To access this trail you need to take the Waloven Tie for 1.3 miles to the junction of the Waloven Himes and Silver Butte Ridge Trail. There is no sign at this junction and the Waloven Himes Trail hasn’t been cleared for several years so watch for the junction and take the right fork. There is a foot bridge crossing the Silver Butte Fisher River on the tie and a stock crossing just upstream of the bridge. A couple of sections along the tie have washed
out, but a path has been sawed out so (with care) stock can get around these sections. The junction with Silver Butte Ridge Trail and the Cabinet Divide #360E is difficult to find. It is about .4 miles from the high point, where the ridge changes from a southeast to southwest direction with a gentle spur ridge to the east.
The Silver Butte Ridge Trail traverses along a moderately steep ridge through closed forest canopy. While you can occasionally see the rock outcroppings in Waloven Creek, it is not a very scenic trail until you reach the Cabinet Divide.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road. Proceed up Silver Butte for 8.2 miles to a spur road on the left and the Waloven Himes and Waloven Tie Trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Silver Dollar Trail – 4.2miles

This trail is maintained for hikers and stock and has a fairly gentle grade compared to most trails in the area.

After the first mile, the trail follows a rehabilitated logging road before entering the timber again. The beginning 1/3 of the trail is through a managed landscape, the next 2/3 traverses into the head end of Trail Creek and a Roadless Area. There is a short section that descends fairly steeply to Trail Creek and climbs steeply out of Trail Creek.

Directions from Libby: Travel 26 miles south on US Highway 2. Turn right (west) on to the West Fisher Road #231 and continue for 6 miles to Geiger Lakes Road #6748 that forks to the left; travel 1.5 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Sims Creek Trail – 0.3miles

Sims Creek Trail #881 is a short trail that connects into Libby Ranger District Himes/Walovine Trail #293.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 200 milepost 28 (approximately) turn east on the Blue Slide Road. Travel approximately 4 miles to FSR 154. Turn left onto FSR 154 and travel 9 miles to the junction with FSR 2232. The trailhead is at the end of FSR 2232.

Difficulty: Easy

St. Paul Lake Trail – 3.9miles

This popular Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail leads to St. Paul Lake. The trail follows the East Fork of the Bull River and offers travelers a “rain forest” feel with the abundance of moss and large diameter trees. Elephant Peak (7938’) and St. Paul Peak (7714’) tower over hikers as they approach St. Paul Lake. Two dispersed campsites are located in the lake basin and cutthroat trout can be found in the lake.

St. Paul Lake Trail #646 crosses Isabella Creek then the East Fork of the Bull River two times with the first crossing having a bridge suitable for foot travel but not stock. The Isabella Creek crossing is challenging and dangerous for much of the season. Numerous “seeps” and wet areas are found along the trail with puncheons negotiating many of these crossings.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 56 milepost 8, turn east onto FSR 407 and travel approximately 5.6 miles to FSR 407A, turn right and follow for 0.18 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Standard Creek Trail – 5.25 miles

The Standard Creek Trail is a 5.25-mile long (10.5 miles roundtrip) hiking trail that offers excellent horseback and camping opportunities. The trail rewards hikers with spectacular views of Upper Libby Creek, Elephant Peak, and the South Cabinet Mountains. For the first mile, the path climbs gently, then gets steeper. 

Directions from Libby: Travel south 2.5 miles on Highway 2 and turn right onto Libby Creek/Fisher Rd. 231. Follow that road for 7 miles, and then turn left onto Standard Creek Rd. 6745 and travel 1.5 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Spar Lake

Spar Lake offers excellent boating possibilities. It is large enough for power boats, yet also ideal for row boats and canoes. If you are planning a weekend boating trip it is advisable to arrive early as space is limited. This is a popular lake with high use by local residents.

Directions from Libby: From Highway 56 in Montana, turn West onto Arco Mine Rd. Continue on Arco Mine Rd. for about 3 miles before turning right onto National Forest (NF) Rd. 7148 and then continue onto NF Rd 384. Follow NF road 384 for about 5 miles past the Southern end of the lake until the road ends. The trailhead will be at the end of this road. 

Swamp Creek Trail and Buck Lake Trail – 12.13miles

This Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail follows Swamp Creek drainage to Lost Buck Pass, and Trail #912A ends at Buck Lake. From Lost Buck Pass, Lake Creek Trail #656 drops into Upper and Lower Geiger Lakes, and South Divide Trail #360S follows a major ridgeline out to the southern boundary of the Cabinet Mountains Wilderness. Buck Lake Trail #912A ends at Buck Lake where there are a couple of dispersed campsites and the lake contains small cutthroat trout.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 200, just west of milepost 27, turn north onto Swamp Creek Road. Travel approximately 4 miles to the end of the road and the trailhead.

Difficulty: Very Strenuous

Teeters Peak Trail – 2.3miles

The main attraction for this trail is access to the Historic Teeters Lookout site. The lookout has been burned, but there are remnants of the foundation and the scenery is stunning. Excellent huckleberry picking along portions of the trail.

Gentle grade on all but the last half mile of the trail. Most of the trail is in good condition and easy to follow, but the last climb to the lookout site is steep and through open areas, so you’ll need to watch for cairns and blazes. Due to the gentle grade and length, this is an excellent family hike. There is no water along the trail.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 25 miles to the Miller Creek Road #385 near mile marker 56. At about 3 miles, take the South Fork Road #4724 for another 7 miles. The trailhead is on the left. There is off road parking for one to two vehicles.

Difficulty: Moderate

Trapper Creek Trail – 3.1miles

The main attraction for this trail is access to the Divide Trail 6S and the loop opportunities this provides. There are few scenic views until you get to the private
section at the saddle and the Divide Trail. The highest-use loop opportunities include Trapper Creek Trail to the Olson Creek Trail, Porcupine Ridge Trail, and Iron Meadows Trails. This is the easiest access trail to the Divide Trail 6S.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road. Proceed up Silver Butte for 7.5 miles to Trapper Creek and the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate

Waloven Tie – 1.3miles

This trail was constructed to access Silver Butte Ridge Trail and move the access to the Waloven Himes Trail off private land.

The first 1⁄4 mile is on an old skid road to the Silver Butte Fisher River Crossing. There is an excellent foot bridge over the river with a stock crossing just upstream from the bridge. Within the next mile there are two sections where the trail has washed out, but a path has been sawed out to get around them. Trail #293a ends at the junction of the Silver Butte Ridge Trail and the Waloven Himes Trail. There are no signs at this junction.

Directions from Libby: Head south on US Highway 2 for 28 miles and take the Silver Butte Road. Proceed up Silver Butte for 8.2 miles to a spur road on the left and the Waloven Himes and Waloven Tie Trailhead.

Difficulty: Easy

Wanless Lake Trail – 9.3miles

This Cabinet Mountains Wilderness trail leads to Wanless Lake Basin. From the wilderness boundary, the trail drops down into the basin passing Upper Wanless Lakes #1, 2, 3, and 4 and ending at Wanless Lake. Spectacular views of mountain peaks can be seen from many locations along the trail. Dispersed campsites can be found at Upper Wanless Lakes #1 and #3 and at Wanless Lake. Be advised stock use is not allowed past Upper Wanless Lake #4.

Directions from Libby: From MT Hwy 200 approximately milepost 18 turn east onto FSR 1022 which is directly opposite Noxon Rapids Dam entrance road. Continue on FSR 1022 approximately 4.5 miles to the trailhead.

Difficulty: Very Strenuous

Wayup Mine – 1.4miles

The Wayup Mine was developed in the early 1900’s, operated intermittently during the 1930s and 1940s, and has limited activity since that time. Trail ends at an old tailings pile and an adit (mine shaft). STAY OUT of the mine shaft, it is extremely DANGEROUS!
This trail provides an excellent day hike, mountain bike, and horseback riding opportunity, and offers spectacular views of the upper West Fisher Basin and portions of the South Cabinet Mountains. Mountain goats, moose, mule deer, grizzly and black bear sightings are common. The Cabinet Mountain Wilderness boundary is just west of the Wayup Mine.

The last 3.2 miles of road accessing this trail are not maintained and the road is impassable to all but four-wheel drive vehicles. The trail is an old mine access road and is fairly steep and rocky. Crossing the West Fisher with a vehicle or ATV can be difficult depending on spring runoff and yearly channel changes. If you can’t cross the West Fisher River, it adds an additional 1 3⁄4 miles and horse users will add another 3.2 miles to their trip. This is great bear habitat, so take your bear spray.

Directions from Libby: Travel south on US Highway 2 for about 25 miles to West Fisher River Road # 231, just before mile marker 57. Turn right and drive about 6 miles to the Lake Creek Campground. Turn right onto Road 6746 and follow for 2.5 miles to where the road switches back to the east, and then turn right (west) down a fairly steep, older road, which will cross the West Fisher River in about 2.5 miles and take you another 1.5 miles to the trailhead. Park at the clearing just
below the gate.

Difficulty: Moderate

Forest Service interactive map

How to read hiking trail signs, markers, blazes