Montana Trail Section 1

This rugged 191-mile section of the Pacific Northwest Trail (PNT) spans northwestern Montana, beginning at the Idaho-Montana border and ending at Goat Haunt in Glacier National Park. The trail traverses a highly diverse and demanding landscape, crossing the Purcell Mountains, the Yaak River valley, and the rugged Livingston Range. Hikers will experience a substantial physical challenge, with over 32,400 feet of cumulative elevation gain and 34,200 feet of loss, reaching a maximum elevation of 7,415 feet. The first half of the route winds through the remote backcountry of the Kootenai and Flathead National Forests, offering solitary stretches of dense forest and scenic high ridges. After passing through the historic, off-grid community of Polebridge, the route enters the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park. This eastern half of the section features dramatic alpine scenery, glacially carved valleys, and high-mountain passes before terminating near the southern tip of Waterton Lake at the Goat Haunt Ranger Station. Due to its extreme remoteness and high elevations, seasonal snowpack and severe weather can heavily impact navigation and accessibility.