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Lewis and Clark National Forest Hiking Trails

Memorial Falls Trail

The Memorial Falls Trailis a loop that reaches a beautiful waterfall before returning to the initial trailhead. Sections of the trail elevate slightly but not enough to discourage children or adults. The path runs beneath a dense forest to the waterfall, where the canopy opens to allow sunlight to glint off the spray.

Length: 1.0 miles

Intensity: Easy
Devil’s Glen Trail

The Devil’s Glen Trail is an in-and-out pathway that begins with a narrow rocky path running beside a private road for a mile before it opens to incredible views of Steamboat Mountain to the north and the Twin Buttes to the south. Beautiful limestone cliffs line the path that runs beside a creek leading to the Dearborn River.

Length: 6.1 miles

Intensity: Easy
Windy Mountain Loop Trail

The Windy Mountain Loop Trail climbs slowly along Briggs Creek until it reaches a small saddle — the gateway to Windy Mountain Pass. Hikers often break away from the trail here to ascend the summit of Windy Mountain to get a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. The trail then descends along Thain Creek to bring you back to the trailhead.

Length: 8.8 miles

Intensity: Intermediate
Casey Meadows Trail

The Casey Meadows Trail is an in-and-out pathway that gradually climbs the entire way. There are several creek crossings along the path, but the water is shallow. Wildflowers cover the hillsides during the spring and summer months. The end of the trail brings rewarding views of the surrounding country.

Length: 8.1 miles

Intensity: Intermediate
Mount Wright Trail

The Mount Wright Trail is a grueling uphill stretch with intermittent switchbacks that climb 3,264 feet. The entire trip is at an elevation of over 5,000 feet. There are no trees to speak of and no running water, so you’ll need to carry your own. While the hike is harsh, the views are incredible, especially when you reach the summit of Mount Wright.

Length: 7.6 miles

Intensity: Difficult

Activities in Lewis and Clark National Forest

Identifying Flora and Fauna

Today, most flora and fauna found in the Lewis and Clark National Forest resemble those discovered by the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805-1806. The early declaration of the forest as a preserve muted the effect of invasive plant and animal life. Horticultural programs at universities across the country encourage students to vacation in this area to recognize the difference between a pristine environment and one that is polluted by alien flora and fauna.

Fishing

Angling is excellent in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Along with the 16,000 miles of streams that drain into this area, hundreds of unpublished natural (and a few human-made) lakes are full of fish who have seldom seen a baited hook or fly.

Geocaching

Geocaching is allowed almost everywhere on the eastern division of the Lewis and Clark National Forest. However, it is discouraged in the western section, and it is outlawed in Wilderness Areas and the Badger-Two Medicine Area. In addition, only members of the Native American Blackfeet tribe may hunt, chop wood, or otherwise enter the Badger-Two Medicine Area. It is reserved for their purposes only and is considered a sacred site protected by the Treaty of 1896.

Nature Watching

The wildlife in Lewis and Clark National Forest includes many predatory species no longer seen in other areas. For example, grizzly bears, mountain lions, lynx, black bears, and gray wolves live in this area. Other wildlife, such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, and deer, are subject to restricted hunting. Many protected birds, like the peregrine falcon, bald eagle, and blue grouse, call this forest home.

Stargazing

Stargazing is terrific in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Even in the lower elevations on the eastern side of the forest, the night sky lights up like an intense light show. In the foothills and on the mountain slopes that make up much of the western side of the forest, spending the night in a clear spot rewards campers with an incredible display of the Milky Way.

How to get to Lewis and Clark National Forest

Address: 1220 38th Street North, Great Falls, MT 59405

Fee: Entry Fee (per person)

There is no entry fee.

Though the Lewis and Clark National Forest was set aside as a preserve in 1897, several roads were constructed by logging and mining concerns. The United States Forest Service maintains many of these roads to provide access in emergencies or forest fires. RVs travel these roads with ease, making RV camping a real possibility in the forest. Boondocking or dispersed camping is allowed and encouraged. Local hikers, anglers, and hunters use RVs in this forest because of their comfort levels and the ability to quickly pick up stakes and move to another area.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lewis and Clark National Forest

Is there a fee to get into Lewis and Clark National Forest?

No, there is no fee to enter Lewis and Clark National Forest. However, many recreation sites within the forest do require a fee to use the area. There may also be additional permits required for certain activities such as camping or hunting in the forest.

Does Lewis and Clark National Forest offer free camping sites?

Yes, Lewis and Clark National Forest offers free camping sites. Dispersed camping is free and is allowed in the forest. Campers need to bring everything with them - there are no amenities or designated campsites, and need to take everything with them when they leave.

Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Lewis and Clark National Forest?

Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Lewis and Clark National Forest. You may stay up to 16 consecutive days in one location before you need to move.

What is the best time to visit Lewis and Clark National Forest?

The best time to visit Lewis and Clark National Forest is from mid-June until early September. Those are the warmest months, and visitors can hike, paddle, horseback ride, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The park is also the most accessible during the short summer season.

Is Lewis and Clark National Forest open all year round?

Yes, the Lewis and Clark National Forest is open all year-round. Visitors can hike, fish, and paddle in the summer. In winter, guests can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and enjoy winter activities.

Lewis and Clark National Forest Guide

RV Rentals Near Lewis and Clark National Forest

Lewis and Clark National Forest Hiking Trails

Memorial Falls Trail

Devil’s Glen Trail

Windy Mountain Loop Trail

Casey Meadows Trail

Mount Wright Trail