Spruce Park

Just south of Essex, the hike to Spruce Park Cabin is a forested adventure along the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. From the Bear Creek Trailhead, head south into the Great Bear Wilderness, keeping an eye out for wildlife like bears and moose. The trail is well maintained and not too strenuous, so you’ll be able to make good time, although it does have a few small creek crossings. After six miles, you can head down to Spruce Park Cabin to enjoy lunch with a river view or swimming and fishing in the waters of the Middle Fork. Photo by Eleanore Eberts