Hay Creek Trail

Hay Creek Trail (#3) is a non-motorized hiking route in the Flathead National Forest, part of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail. It runs along Hay Creek and connects to the Whitefish Divide Trail (#26) at its western end.

Length is about 5.4 miles one-way, with the standard eastbound access starting at the end of Hay Creek Road #376 and finishing at the Whitefish Divide Trail #26 junction.

The trail is designated for standard/ground trail tread (“Standard/Terra”) and is open for non-motorized uses. The route is also used by horseback riding and mountain biking, so expect shared corridor traffic where it applies.

Wildlife constraints matter here: the area is in grizzly bear habitat and falls under the Northern Continental Divide Food and Wildlife Attractant Storage order, so plan food/garbage storage for the entire trip.

Because it’s heavily wooded and sees seasonal blowdown, treat recent trail status as part of trip planning. A quick scout for downed trees and verify conditions before committing if you’re going shortly after storms or high winds.

Logistics-wise, the trail’s access is tied to local Forest roads: the upper portion of Hay Creek Road #376 has a limited-season element referenced on the managing-area guidance, so confirm road availability for the dates you’re targeting.

More information: Conditions, Visitor information, Visitor information