For me, picking a favorite Montana dayhike is nearly impossible – there are just too many to choose from in this great state. And my response can vary depending on any of several factors: the time of year, the sights along the trail, the destination, driving time, distance and – perhaps the biggest – dogs or no dogs.
Last year, my trail of choice would have been Goat Flat and Upper Seymour Lake in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness near Philipsburg.
It was my first time on this trail and in this wilderness. The path sets out from Storm Lake and switchbacks up to just below 10,000 feet on the Continental Divide at Goat Flat, a sweeping, wildflower-filled plateau with 360-degree mountain views. From there it drops back down to cool, clear Upper Seymour Lake with a handful of campsites and great swimming. All in about 5 1/2 miles (11 miles round trip).
So far this year, I’d say it’s the 16- to 18-mile Dawson-Pitamakan Loop in Glacier National Park, featured as last week’s Wildflower Walk. (Distance depends on whether you take the boat across Two Medicine Lake.)
On any trail in Glacier, you’re guaranteed big mountains with big views; beautiful streams, lakes and flowers; and perhaps some snow or wildlife. On the Dawson-Pitamakan Loop, it’s more about what’s missing: the crowds. This and any other trail in the Two Medicine Valley are nearly empty compared to other parts of the park. And while you can only see the glaciers in the distance, you will still be wowed with every step.
These are both big trails that take some getting to. When I think about everyday hikes – trails that I can do on a whim – the picture changes.
The Bitterroot Mountains are a quick drive south of Missoula, and Blodgett Canyon on the northwest edge of Hamilton is a classic hike there. What I like best it’s accessible in any season. In summer, there’s plenty of greenery and a cascading stream. Fall brings reds and oranges to the canyon floor, and if you look closely you may find a foraging moose or two. In winter, it’s an easy snowshoe adventure. And spring brings flowers and waterfalls from the granite walls above.
This brings me to the point of this post: a survey.
Below you’ll find a link to SpeakUpMissoula.com, where I’ve started a topic about favorite dayhikes. I know where I like to go, but what are some of you’re favorite spots? Sign in and add a trail, or vote on an existing entry. At the very least, maybe you’ll get an idea for your next outing.
Justin Grigg
