Stanley Creek

This route heads into the hills and is a nice out-and-back detour from the main Cottonwood Lakes trail. Overall it's narrow with pullouts and some potholes to navigate. The trail travels through a section of old burned forest, so be on the lookout or ready to clear deadfall, especially after a storm. As the trail twists its way back, the views are expansive and stunning the higher you travel. Eventually, the trail climbs to a saddle where Stanley Creek flows through. The trail's end has a decent-sized turnaround that could be used to camp. It is a nice secluded level spot. One or two larger pullouts along the trail have dispersed campsites with outstanding views. This route also intersects with a few hiking trails, making it a good jumping-off point to explore the area. There is no cell service up here. Plan accordingly and download those offline maps before you go. Lolo Route 602 is seasonally closed.