Great Northern Peak, located near Glacier National Park, is a majestic mountain offering breathtaking views and challenging hiking trails. Standing at 8,705 feet (2,653 meters), it provides a unique wilderness experience for outdoor enthusiasts. This guide explores the various aspects of Great Northern Peak, including its hiking routes, wildlife viewing opportunities, and nearby fishing spots, making it an essential resource for anyone planning to visit this stunning area of Montana.
What Are the Key Features of Great Northern Peak?
Great Northern Peak, while not officially within Glacier National Park boundaries, is a prominent mountain in close proximity to the park. Its location offers visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of Montana’s wilderness without the crowds often found in more popular areas. The peak is characterized by:
- Elevation: 8,705 feet (2,653 meters)
- Proximity to Glacier National Park and the Great Bear Wilderness
- Diverse hiking trails with varying difficulty levels
- Rich wildlife habitat
- Spectacular views of surrounding mountains and valleys
What Hiking Trails Are Available at Great Northern Peak?
Great Northern Peak offers several hiking routes, each with its own unique challenges and rewards:
- Standard Route
- Follows the north side of Hungry Horse Creek
- Mostly Class 2 with some Class 3 sections
- Well-defined trail, relatively easier compared to other routes
- Approximately 4 miles to the summit
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Last 2.5 miles along a spectacular ridge
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Dudley Bowl Route
- Involves bushwhacking and scrambling from the south side of Hungry Horse Creek
- No maintained trails
- Significant elevation gain through dense forest and talus fields
- About 6 miles round trip
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More arduous, best done as a day trip
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Grant Ridge Trail
- Approaches from the east side of the mountain
- Longer route with more elevation gain
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Maintained trail for part of the way
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West Ridge Route
- Joins from the north side of the peak
- May require some bushwhacking
- Not fully mapped
How Difficult Are the Hiking Trails?
The difficulty of the hiking trails on Great Northern Peak varies:
- Standard Route:
- Initial 1.5 miles are extremely steep
- Elevation gain of nearly 2,500 feet in this section
- Trail becomes more manageable after the initial ascent
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Requires careful footing and some scrambling near the summit
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Dudley Bowl Route:
- More challenging due to lack of maintained trails
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Requires navigation skills and experience in backcountry travel
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Grant Ridge Trail:
- Longer route with significant elevation gain
- May be less technically challenging but requires good endurance
Where Can I Fish Near Great Northern Peak?
While Great Northern Peak itself doesn’t offer fishing opportunities, there are several nearby locations where anglers can try their luck:
- Hungry Horse Reservoir
- Large body of water close to Great Northern Peak
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Offers various fishing opportunities
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Middle Fork of the Flathead River
- Part of the Great Bear Wilderness and Glacier National Park
- Known for its pristine waters and diverse fish species
Fishing regulations in the area are managed by the Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks department. It’s crucial to:
- Check current regulations
- Obtain necessary permits
- Follow catch-and-release guidelines to protect the environment
What Wildlife Can I See Near Great Northern Peak?
The area around Great Northern Peak is home to a diverse range of wildlife:
- Grizzly bears
- Wolves
- Wolverines
- Mountain goats
- Bighorn sheep
- Moose
- Various bird species
For the best wildlife viewing opportunities:
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon
- Maintain a safe distance from animals
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife
How Do I Access Great Northern Peak?
Accessing Great Northern Peak involves the following:
- Driving Directions:
- Located about 145 miles from Missoula
- 16-mile drive on a corrugated gravel road from Highway #2
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Road is passable to passenger vehicles
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Parking:
- Available at the trailhead
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Limited spaces, arrive early during peak season
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Trailhead Access:
- Main trailhead located near Hungry Horse Reservoir
- Standard Route starts from the north side of Hungry Horse Creek
What Should I Know About Seasonal Conditions?
Seasonal conditions can significantly impact your visit to Great Northern Peak:
| Season | Conditions | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Snow may linger on trails | Bring appropriate gear, check trail conditions |
| Summer | Potential heat waves | Carry plenty of water, start hikes early |
| Fall | Cooler temperatures, possible early snow | Pack layers, check weather forecast |
| Winter | Heavy snow, limited access | Not recommended for casual hikers |
Always check current conditions and weather forecasts before planning your trip.
What Are the Essential Items to Pack for Great Northern Peak?
When visiting Great Northern Peak, make sure to pack:
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Layered clothing
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- First aid kit
- Navigation tools (map, compass, GPS)
- Bear spray
- Camera for capturing the stunning views
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this beautiful wilderness area for future visitors.
Great Northern Peak, while not officially part of Glacier National Park, offers a similar wilderness experience with fewer crowds. Its challenging trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning vistas make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a new challenge or a wildlife photographer seeking the perfect shot, Great Northern Peak has something to offer everyone who ventures into its rugged terrain.
References:
1. Great Northern Mountain – Montana Mountain Project
2. Great Northern Mountain near Glacier Park – Big Sky Walker
3. Great Northern Mountain : Climbing, Hiking & Mountaineering – SummitPost