Bear Lake/ Bob Marshal Wilderness

Hike Name: Bear Lake/ Bob Marshal Wilderness Location: central MT Length: 33 Submitted by: Bill Ballowe Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more Montana trail reviews Montana national parks Montana state parks
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Description
The hike starts at Gibson Dam parking lot. You follow the trail along the north side of Gibson Lake for about 7 miles. The trail has been cut out of the cliffs along the lake. They are safe and you may encounter some horse traffic by the outfitters in the area. Stand on the downhill side of the trail if you encounter horses.
Early in the year you can boat to the end of the lake but later in the summer the lake is drained for irrigation so you have to hike the entire length.
At the end of the lake take the South Fork Trail (upper route)through Klicks Upper Camp on the Sun River. Take the trail for about a mile and then turn right and go up Bear Creek Trail #222. Follow the trail about 7 miles to the lake. It is a gradual climb thru the forest and open timber. You may encounter elk and deer in this area.

This trail doesn't get a lot of use but it is in very good condition and well maintained. The last two miles is a steady uphill to the lake.

There are several small streams along the trail to get water.

There are two good spots the camp on the south side of the lake. Fishing is excellent and you probably won't see anybody all week.

If you want you can follow the goat trails above the lake and climb up to Prairie Reef Fire Tower which is about 2.5 miles south of the lake. This is a pretty strenous climb but I have done it twice and enjoy the vistas once on top. You can see the Chinese Wall from the top of the rim above the lake.

You will see big horn sheep, mountain goats and elk.

Directions to Hike
From Augusta Montana take the road west out of town to Sun River Canyon and Gibson Dam. There is a camp ground just above the dam and a place to launch a boat. The trail follows the north side of the lake. It is about 16 miles to the lake.

Plan to stay at least two nights and three if possible.

Contact Information
U.S. Forest Service Office in Augusta Montana (406) 562-3247

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