Guided day hikes in the Flathead National Forest, the quieter wilderness that borders Glacier National Park: alpine lakes, ridge walks, berry bushes and wildflowers, with a local guide who handles the bear safety, the route and the logistics.
Our guided hikes take place entirely within the rugged Flathead National Forest, away from the traffic and crowded trails of the park. Same mountains, same wildlife, none of the entrance lines. Your guide handles bear safety, route navigation and logistics so you can simply enjoy the vistas and alpine lakes.
The Hikes
Jenny Lake
The one we push everyone toward. Near Hungry Horse Reservoir, this trail winds through wildflowers and berry bushes before opening up to a pristine alpine lake. 7.5 miles out and back, moderate, about 30 minutes from our shop.
Doris Lake
A cluster of quiet mountain lakes on the west side of Hungry Horse Reservoir, with a rough road approach that keeps the crowds away. About 5.5 miles out and back, moderate to strenuous, 1 hour 30 minutes from our shop. Options include summiting Doris Mountain or floating the lake on a packraft.
Peters Ridge
A ridge-top hike in the Swan Range with panoramic views over the surrounding peaks, the Flathead Valley and Flathead Lake. 5.2 miles out and back with 2,000 or more feet of gain. Difficult, about 45 minutes from our shop.
Upper Holland Lake
A full-day wilderness push from the Swan Valley, past the lower falls to crystal-clear water beneath the Swan Range. About 10 miles out and back with 3,000 or more feet of gain, for fit, experienced hikers.
Sapphire Lake
On the border of the Bob Marshall Wilderness, a pair of quiet alpine lakes with incredibly blue water and views into the Mission Mountains and the Swan Valley. 14 miles out and back with 3,800 feet of gain. Difficult and strenuous.
Huckleberry Picking and Hiking
Looking to spend a day picking huckleberries? We can guide you to the spots where they grow, as a morning activity or combined with a full-day hike.
Floats
Our alpine lake hikes offer a unique experience where you can peacefully float on the crystal-clear water with a packraft. Your guide is happy to carry the first two rafts, so everyone can enjoy the lake without the hassle. The Hike and Float trip is the day built around it.
Your Guides
Our team prioritizes your safety and comfort above all else. With several years of real mountaineering and hiking experience, your hiking guides know what to expect, what to avoid, and how to handle unexpected situations. They are year-round locals, EMT and CPR certified, carrying a satellite communicator on every trip, under a Special Use Permit in the Flathead National Forest.
Custom Hikes
This is your adventure. See an area you would like to explore, or have ideas of your own? Our guides are prepared to take on any excursion. For a fully custom hike, contact us with your dates and what you have in mind.
Walks Inside the Park
Guided hikes are not permitted inside Glacier National Park, so we offer short guided walks in Two Medicine and Many Glacier as part of our scenic driving tours. They are a chance to stretch your legs and explore the park up close.
Before You Go
Check the what to bring page and, for a longer trip, our intro to backpacking and 3 day backpacking trip.
