Upper Twin Lake

The North Meadow Creek Trail offers a rugged and rewarding journey into the Tobacco Root Mountains, leading you through diverse terrain from flowing creek beds to high alpine lakes. You'll navigate rocky, boulder-filled sections and muddy patches, with the path gradually climbing before a steep final push to pristine destinations like Upper Twin Lake. Keep an eye out for abundant wildlife, including deer, elk, and even mountain goats, as you traverse this challenging 11.5-mile (18.5 km) route.

Planning your hike on the North Meadow Creek Trail requires timing your visit carefully. The trail is generally accessible after the 4th of July, but deep snow can block access earlier or later in the season. Parking is available at the trailhead, which is shared with off-road enthusiasts, so arriving early is a good strategy. This difficult hike, with 1745 feet (532 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 5 hours and 25 minutes, is best suited for experienced hikers ready for varied conditions.

Beyond its natural beauty, the North Meadow Creek Trail also offers a glimpse into the region's past, with remnants of old mining operations scattered along the route. This historical context, combined with expansive mountain vistas of peaks like Ward Peak and Kid Mountain, makes it a unique experience. It's a popular multi-use trail, so be prepared to share the path, but the payoff of reaching the high alpine lakes and enjoying the solitude of the upper reaches is well worth the effort.