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Northwest Peak Trail

Kootenai National Forest, Montana · 3 min read

Distance
7.4 mi
Elevation Gain
2,800 ft
Difficulty
strenuous
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
10 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
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

  • Summit views spanning Montana, Idaho, and British Columbia simultaneously
  • The highest point in the extreme northwest corner of Montana
  • Remote and rarely visited summit despite the tri-state view payoff
  • Sub-alpine terrain with distinctive Northwest Montana vegetation
  • Selkirk Mountains visible to the west in Idaho and British Columbia

Overview

Northwest Peak is the culminating summit of the Selkirk Mountains where they cross from Idaho into Montana, a remote 7,705-foot summit in the Kootenai National Forest that offers something genuinely rare: a panoramic view spanning Montana, Idaho, and British Columbia simultaneously. The 7.4-mile round trip is strenuous and the trailhead requires a lengthy drive on rough forest roads, which is why this summit sees so few visitors.

Located in the extreme northwestern corner of Montana, Northwest Peak sits near the point where the US-Canada border and the Idaho-Montana state line converge. The international and interstate context is visible and tangible from the summit: the clearcut-to-forest transition of the Canadian border is visible, and Idaho's Selkirk Mountains extend to the south. It is a perspective available nowhere else in the Kootenai.

The Route

Trailhead to Sub-Alpine (0 to 2.5 miles)

The trail begins in lodgepole and subalpine fir forest on a well-defined but lightly maintained path. The lower forest section provides shade during the approach. Water is available from seasonal streams in the first 2 miles.

Upper Climb and Ridge (2.5 to 3.5 miles)

The trail steepens above treeline on an open rocky ridge with expanding views in all directions. The climbing becomes more sustained and the wind exposure increases significantly. The summit becomes visible from the ridge approach.

Summit (3.7 miles)

The summit is open and the views are unrestricted. British Columbia's border clearcut line is visible north; the Selkirks extend south into Idaho; the Kootenai Valley spreads east and west. Return via the same route.

When to Hike

July through September provides the most reliable window. The remote trailhead road is not accessible until the forest road opens, typically in late June or early July. September offers excellent clarity and solitude.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry 3 liters of water for this route, with creek sources available only in the lower section. The summit is fully exposed and wind layers are essential. An early start allows safe descent before afternoon weather. No restroom at the trailhead.

Trailhead Access

Northwest Peak Trailhead is accessed via a long drive on forest roads in the extreme northwest Kootenai near the Idaho border. High-clearance vehicle required. The specific road routing requires checking with the Fortine Ranger District for current access and conditions (as of 2026). No fee or permit required. No restroom. Limited parking for 6 to 8 vehicles.

Dogs are permitted.

Nearby

Northwest Peak is the most remote major trail destination in the Kootenai. Ten Lakes Scenic Area Trail is in the same general Tobacco Valley area with a more forgiving approach road. The Cabinet Mountains trails are 90 to 120 minutes south for those making a multi-day Kootenai trip.

Check road conditions and accessibility with the Fortine Ranger District using the USFS guide before committing to the drive. Follow Leave No Trace principles on this fragile and rarely visited summit.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel pull-out at the Northwest Peak Trailhead near the Idaho-Montana-Canada border junction. High-clearance vehicle required. Space for 6 to 8 vehicles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Northwest Peak Trail take?
The 7.4-mile round trip with 2,800 feet of gain takes most hikers 4.5 to 6.5 hours. The remote approach to the trailhead adds significantly to the total day's commitment.
Is Northwest Peak Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted on Northwest Peak Trail. The upper rocky terrain is demanding but navigable for fit dogs. The remote trailhead and limited parking mean this is a low-traffic environment comfortable for dogs.
Can you see Canada from Northwest Peak?
Yes. Northwest Peak's summit provides views into British Columbia to the north and west, and into Idaho to the south. On clear days the view is genuinely international, spanning three political boundaries from a single point.