By:
Submission
Really cool views of the canyon and river. The facilities are basic and we only saw one picnic table. However the views are worth it. River acmes is limited, we did get on the river to try some fly fishing. Didn't see anything, local said people have bought some trout here.
One of the most beautiful hikes I have ever had. The canyon and river are wonderful. The rises most of the way in but not overly steep. Pretty quiet so while you won't have it to yourself you also probably won't see too many people. Only downside is the trail is not a loop. It's 2.5 miles to creek crossing and then back. Pit toilet is atrocious so be warned.
This little area is such a magical place. There is something about being sandwiched between giant pillars and walls of rock as the river rushes by mercilessly. As for the campground, not sure I would even call it that. There are a few spots on the side of the road on the way to the trailhead that are nice little camping spots. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely loved camping here.. but it’s not your typical campground with amenities. And there was a ban on fires. I didn’t have time to do the hike but even walking from my campsite to the end of the road where the trailhead is was a wonderful experience with a lot to see. It’s surprising this place isn’t more well known, I mean I found by way of blind luck. But we should all try to keep it that way, the lack of tourists or many people in general was part of what made it so special. I promise you a walk down to the end of the road when the sun is setting will make you appreciate life and nature much more deeply. Anyways, sorry for the rant.. But this area is something very unique and special. Just be prepared there aren’t many campsites and there isn’t much shade.
PS - please pick up your trash. Not just here but everywhere. There wasn’t much but I had to pick up a few pieces along the road. Nobody wants to see that. Please do your best to keep our home planet clean. It’s very disheartening and honestly infuriating to see some of the most beautiful areas in Wyoming/Montana littered with trash. Please don’t deteriorate it’s beauty by being a lazy inconsiderate jerkoff. Thanks :)
Absolutely fantastic trail. Most trails have you wait for the beautiful part, but this trail is stunning for the whole thing. You will start with a nice hike along the river and before you know it you are high up in the valley with canyon walls on both sides. There is a cave along the way that you can walk into, so bring a flashlight along if you would like to walk inside the cave. We didn't have time to finish the hike to the top, but it was still amazing.
Loved this gorgeous and secluded area! There are, in fact, a few designated campsites along the road. Most of the area is day use.
I was nervous about trusting Google to get us to the right spot, but this map location is quite accurate. The drive getting there was absolutely beautiful, and the hiking itself was just wonderful. Important (maybe) to note that there are two trails, and you make a choice once you get to the bridge pretty early on:
(1) Crossing the bridge will take you to a trail that pretty quickly becomes switch-backs up the mountain. Becomes quite strenuous and narrow with some slippery rock areas. We made it up to the big rock with the cave (note that you’re not supposed to enter the cave gate to respect the bats). Very worth the climb if you’re able — our 4 1/2 year old made it with some help along the way.
(2) The 2nd trail seems to follow the river through the canyon and would be less difficult. I followed it a ways just to check it out, since by then my young son was quite tired. So, maybe another reviewer (or trail map if it exists?) can confirm my impression of a more flat and lovely trail with pretty constant rover views.
