Hiking

Most of the hikes in this part of Glacier are long backpacking trips on little-used trails into wild country. Animals, including bears, abound in these woods and stream bottoms. Glacier National Park [1] maps show trails along every creek. Those planning to hike in the area should seek up-to-date trail information and permits, which are required for overnight hikes, from the backcountry permit station at Apgar [2].

A couple of shorter hikes originate at the unstaffed Walton Ranger Station, near Essex. Hike to Ole Creek and follow the trail as far as you like. The same trailhead provides access to the Scalplock Lookout, four unrelentingly steep miles to great views.

Leave the highway about two miles east of the goat lick to find a trail into the Great Bear Wilderness Area [3].