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Upper Flint Creek Canyon

Deerlodge National Forest, Montana · 3 min read

Distance
5.8 mi
Elevation Gain
1,000 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
May through October
Est. Time
2.5-4 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Scenic creek canyon with clear water and canyon walls
  • Wildflower displays in the canyon margins from May through July
  • Mountain views from the upper canyon
  • Popular fishing creek for brown and rainbow trout with valid license
  • Accessible trail from the Philipsburg area
riverviewswildflowers

Overview

Upper Flint Creek Canyon offers a pleasant creek canyon hike through Deerlodge National Forest, combining accessible terrain with mountain views and good fishing in a historic mining district. The 5.8-mile out-and-back gains 1,000 feet and is rated moderate, making it suitable for hikers of most ability levels.

The canyon's clear creek, wildflower margins, and views to the Flint Creek Range above make this a rewarding destination for a half-day outing from the Philipsburg area. Fishing is a major draw, and Flint Creek is known for quality brown and rainbow trout.

The Granite Mountain Trail provides a much more demanding option in the same mountain range for those wanting a summit challenge.

The Route

The trail follows Flint Creek upstream from the highway trailhead through the narrowing canyon. The first mile is the widest and most accessible section, with the canyon walls becoming more dramatic in the middle section. The trail continues upstream to a natural turnaround point with views of the upper canyon and surrounding ridgelines.

When to Visit

May through October. The lower elevation makes this one of the earliest trails to open in Deerlodge National Forest. Spring wildflowers and high creek flows are excellent from mid-May through June. Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fall foliage.

Practical Details

No facilities at the trailhead. Water from Flint Creek must be treated. Dispersed camping is permitted on Deerlodge National Forest lands. A valid Montana fishing license is required to fish. Review Leave No Trace principles.

Getting There

From Philipsburg, Montana, drive west on Highway 348 approximately 6 miles into the upper Flint Creek drainage. The trailhead is on the south side of the road. A passenger vehicle can manage the drive.

Leave No Trace

This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.

Safety Considerations

The moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Deerlodge National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Upper Flint Creek Trailhead off Highway 348 west of Philipsburg. Paved pullout, no fee.

← Back to Deerlodge National Forest

More Trails in Deerlodge National Forest

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Pintler Pass Trail

14 mi3,200 ft gain
July through September

Hike the Pintler Pass Trail in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This strenuous 14-mile loop crosses the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness with alpine lakes, wildflowers, and mountain views.

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Granite Mountain Trail

10.4 mi3,800 ft gain
July through September

Climb Granite Mountain in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This strenuous 10.4-mile out-and-back gains 3,800 feet to one of the highest summits in the Flint Creek Range with panoramic views.

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Mount Haggin Loop

8 mi1,600 ft gain
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Hike the Mount Haggin Loop in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This moderate-hard 8.0-mile loop traverses the Mount Haggin Wildlife Management Area with views, wildflowers, and wildlife.

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Pintler Pass Loop

17 mi4,200 ft gain
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Backpack the Pintler Pass Loop in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This strenuous 17-mile loop is a premier multi-day route through the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness with alpine lakes and wildflowers.

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Racetrack Trail

7 mi1,200 ft gain
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Hike the Racetrack Trail in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This moderate 7.0-mile loop traverses a scenic valley with views of the surrounding mountains and frequent wildlife sightings.

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Storm Lake Trail

9.6 mi2,400 ft gain
July through September

Hike to Storm Lake in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This strenuous 9.6-mile out-and-back climbs through the Flint Creek Range to a remote alpine lake with mountain views.

3 min read

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Warm Springs Creek Trail

6.2 mi800 ft gain
May through October

Hike the Warm Springs Creek Trail in Deerlodge National Forest, Montana. This moderate 6.2-mile out-and-back follows a scenic creek past a natural hot springs area with wildlife.

3 min read

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Upper Flint Creek Canyon Trail?
The trail is rated moderate with 1,000 feet of gain over 2.9 miles one way. The terrain is straightforward and accessible to hikers of most fitness levels.
Is there good fishing in Flint Creek?
Yes. Flint Creek is a productive trout stream, holding brown and rainbow trout. A valid Montana fishing license is required. Check Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for current regulations.
When do wildflowers bloom in Flint Creek Canyon?
Wildflowers in the canyon margins bloom from late May through July, with the best displays in June for lower elevations. Summer heat can cause early fade.
What is the history of the Flint Creek area?
The Flint Creek drainage has a rich mining history dating to the late 1800s. The town of Philipsburg developed around silver mining, and old mine workings are visible near the canyon.