St. Mary Peak Lookout Trail Opening

DATES: JULY 5-7

TRAILHEAD: ST. MARY PEAK RD

Location: STEVENSVILLE, MT, BITTERROOT NATIONAL FOREST, SELWAY-BITTERROOT WILDERNESS

BASECAMP: PRIVATE LOCATION IN STEVENSVILLE- TBA AFTER REGISTRATION

RATING: MODERATE

*Click image to view full map (credit: ArcGIS)*

DESCRIPTION:

Help us continue our annual tradition of opening and maintaining the trail to the historic 9,000-foot St. Mary’s Peak Fire Lookout. This is one of the busiest trails on the Bitterroot National Forest, so early season maintenance is critical. We will be performing annual maintenance of the trail, including clearing downed trees, cleaning drainages, brushing vegetation, and redefining tread. As snow levels permit, we will also be focusing on deferred maintenance closer to the top of the trail. This work will include digging out and removing rock in the tread so that the trail is easier traveled by stock animals.

The hike to the lookout can be fairly arduous, with 2500 feet of elevation gained in 3.5 miles. However, upon reaching the summit you will be rewarded with stunning views of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness! More information and reviews about the hike can be found on AllTrails.

Camping accommodations will be available at a private residence. Our hosts have generously offered to cook dinner for the group on Saturday evening. We will dine in their beautiful yard amidst views of the Bitterroot’s rugged mountains and agriculture-rich valley. Join us for good company and vibrant conversation; don’t forget your camp chair!

SBFC will provide breakfasts, lunches, and snacks.