Overview
Standing at 5380', Adams Mountain comes in at #61 on the
Salish Range peak list in Northwest Montana. Certainly not a high mountain by anyone's standards but a worthy endeavour nonetheless for two reasons. The first reason is because this is a great conditioning hike while waiting for snowmelt in the higher surrounding mountain ranges such as the
Whitefish Range, the
Swan Range, and the higher peaks located in
Glacier National Park.
Reason two is for the fantastic and unexpected summit views in every direction. The Adams Mountain summit is bald because it has been logged, so there are no trees to block the views.
Getting There
Drive 16 miles north of downtown Whitefish on Hwy 93. Turn left on Good Creek Road which is just north of Lower Stillwater Lake. Travel 6 miles on paved Good Creek Road. Continue another mile on unpaved Good Creek Road until reaching Forest Service Road #2875. Turn right on this road and proceed less than one mile to Forest Service Road #2869. This road is currently closed to motorized travel. There is a pull-out on FS Road #2875 before reaching #2869 for convenient parking.
Trail Information
Forest Service Road #2869 is your route to the summit. Well-maintained, but very rocky in places this road gently switchbacks to the summit for approximately 4.5 miles with an approximate elevation gain of 1500 feet. Most of your views are blocked by trees as you hike up the road but occasional views of Keith Mountain to the north are seen.
As mentioned before this FS Road is very rocky in places but is a wide track and makes for a very pleasant stroll to the top of the mountain where you do have to leave the road for a short "off-trail" hike to the actual summit.
Summit Views
Your reward for attaining the summit is outstanding views in every direction!
Summit Views
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Camping and Red Tape
Adams Mountain is located in the
Flathead National Forest which is
bear country. Carry bear spray and make lots of noise when you hike. There was bear sign (tracks and scat) in many areas on Forest Service Road #2869.
The two closest campgrounds would be located at
Tally Lake Campground and
Stillwater Lake Campground.
Gear
Bring your own water on this hike.
A Flathead National Forest Tally Lake Ranger District Map would also be helpful....available at local outdoor retailers.