kootenai creek trail

it is very strenuous ,but, if you can hang and pace yourself and have appropriate clothing (rain gear) I would suggest giving it the college try. Ive only hiked it a couple time and always have met up with people who are living the dream as myself.

I have been hiking the Kootenai Creek Trail since I was a young man. For over 50 years it has been one of my favorite places in western Montana. A little steep at first then a very relaxing hike for about 3 miles then it get quite steep up to the Kootenai Lakes.Bring your fly rod. The creek is full of 7-12 inch native cutthroat trout. I taught my sons to flyfishing on this wonderful creek.

Kootenai Creek Trail is a wonderful day hike and a refreshing departure from more crowded spots. I admit I only hiked in a mile. The stream was flowing well and the sound of the water was wonderful medicine for stress-relief. I would call the trail easy for experienced hikers. The trail is uneven in lots of places so make sure you watch your step. Our part of the hike was streamside for the entire distance and there is plenty of shade which makes for a cool hike even on the 90 degree (32 C) day we hiked. There are basic restrooms at the trailhead. My advice, don't pass up the opportunity because there's not much privacy on the trail

Hiked here two times now and just loved it. Thought it was an easy day hike, but to get to the lakes it's like 12 to 13 miles I have heard and read. We took our little dog, and had to carry her because of all the big rocks and uneven trail, lots of ups and downs, but it was a great trail for sturdy humans and we saw horses and one time a garden snake. It was well traveled and warm on our visit with lots of green foilage. I was in heaven and could have walked much further, but after three miles, we decided to turn around as it was getting late. I recommend you start early, bring water bottles, a lunch and a camera. It's sublime!!!

Unlike so many other mountain trails, the water runs almost the full length of the trail. It can be "cooling" on a hot day hike, just to have the swift water nearby. I cannot think of a day hike I enjoyed more.

This creek trail is one of the most beautiful in the Bitterroot Valley. I have only hiked a couple of miles up this westward trail, but that is enough! This isn't a trail to be taken at high speed. It is a lingering, looking, enjoying stroll of a trail. From the trailhead, the creek is already awesome. There are magnificent rocks on either side. If you are lucky you will catch a glimpse of the rock hounds that climb these towering rocks with grace and ease. The trees along the trail are mixed ponderosa (with that incredible puzzle bark) and larch. The trail isn't hard, a few mild ups and downs. The creek is always in view the first 2 miles on your left. Pack a picnic and wander on up. In the summer the creek has many pools and big rocks to splash and play on. In the winter, ice Yak Tracks or other such non slip footwear is a must, or snowshoes when the snow is finally heavy enough. Bring your camera, you will fall in love!