Northwest Peak Trail

The Northwest Peak Trail is a pleasant hike high into the Purcell Mountains that the whole family can enjoy. Wander through a corridor of larch and ponderosa pines and up the rocky slopes to the summit that offers a panoramic overlook of the mountainous landscape. While this route progresses through some trees, the canopy is open—so wear SPF, bring plenty of water, and dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions. As with all sorts of exploration in the area, make sure at least one person in your party carries a can of bear spray in the unlikely event of an encounter.

Setting out from the trailhead, the Northwest Peak Hike begins to climb westward, progressing higher into the Purcell Mountains. After some hiking, the path will gain a ridge bound by Davis Lake in the south and the Hawkins Lakes in the north. Enjoy the scene of the shimmering lakes below as you climb up the increasingly exposed terrain. Soon you will reach the summit of Northwest Peak.

Rest, rehydrate and revel in the grandeur of the mountainous landscape. Notice Canada in the north, Idaho’s panhandle in the east, the Cabinet Mountains in the south, and in the distant west—the Glacier National Park. When you are through admiring the scenery, head back the way you came to the trailhead.