Are you itching to get outside? Enjoy this nice spring weather, Go out to find the earliest spring flowers, But you don’t know where to go? Read further for a few suggestions.

Lolo National Forest

Petty Mountain

Right outside of Alberton, Petty Mountain provides early access to get outside as the snow begins to melt. Get outside and experience the big-horned sheep. See many spring flowers on Petty Pasture, and even bring your snowshoes up to the peak if you’re so inclined!

Clearwater Crossing

Rumor has it the road to Clearwater Crossing is passable! Off the Fish Creek road and about an hour and fifteen minutes from Missoula, the Crossing provides opportunities for car camping, some solitude, and a couple options for hiking. Last reported, North Fork Fish Creek #103 is pretty icy past the burn, and the West Fork #101 is passable for a while.

Please remember that the trail crew hasn’t been in to clear out winter falls, so be patient with the downed trees on the trail.

Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest

Aquarius

Only an hour into the forest from Pierce, Aquarius provides ample camping opportunity and even some fishing if you’re so inclined. Be sure to grab a license before you head out! If you’re wanting to stretch your legs, walk along the Down River #297 trail for a rainforest-type feeling and plenty of view of the river. Be careful of the high water crossing at Syringa Creek.

Bungalow

Another place to camp and hang out along the North Fork, right now (3/29/24) you have to go up to Canyon Work Center from Pierce and then back down to Bungalow, but the road is passable. Stay here, at the confluence of the Orogrande and the North Fork. Enjoy the sounds of rushing water and even the opportunity to hike Cabin Point #17 across the road or Clarke Mtn #601. You won’t be able to get up far, but looking across the valley makes it all worth it.