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Bear Gulch Trail

Targhee National Forest, Idaho · 3 min read

Distance
5.5 mi
Elevation Gain
900 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
June through October
Est. Time
3-4 hours
Dog Friendly
Yes
Kid Friendly
No
Difficulty Score
5 / 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

  • Bear Gulch Creek through mixed fir and aspen forest
  • Black bear activity in the berry-rich upper gulch
  • Midsummer wildflower meadows at the upper basin
  • Quiet southern Targhee with minimal visitor traffic
  • Good birding in the riparian corridor throughout season
riverwildlifewildflowers

Overview

The Bear Gulch Trail in Targhee National Forest explores one of the quieter drainages in the forest's southern reaches, an area that sees little of the tourist traffic drawn to the Teton-facing slopes to the north. The gulch cuts through mixed fir, spruce, and aspen forest above Montpelier, Idaho, following a clear mountain creek through terrain rich in wildlife.

The name is apt: black bears frequent the area, drawn by the huckleberry and serviceberry crops that ripen along the gulch from late July through August. Deer and elk are common, and the riparian corridor supports good songbird diversity throughout the season. The upper basin opens into scattered wildflower meadows that add color in midsummer.

The Route

The trail begins at a modest roadside trailhead and drops to the creek immediately, following it upstream through the lower gulch. The terrain alternates between forest shade and small sunny clearings throughout the route. The trail climbs more steeply in the upper section before reaching the basin meadows at the turnaround. Return follows the same route.

What to Expect

Make noise while hiking in this area, particularly in late summer when bears are feeding on berries before hibernation. The creek crossings are manageable in summer but can be challenging in early June. Wear waterproof boots or be prepared for wet feet in the lower section.

Nearby

Montpelier, Idaho, a historic pioneer town on the Bear Lake Valley, is the nearest service center. The Hominy Peak Trail offers a more demanding summit hike in the same southern Targhee area. Bear Lake, just south on US-89, provides swimming and water recreation for those spending multiple days in the area.

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 Targhee National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.

Trailhead Parking

Bear Gulch Trailhead off Forest Road 087 southeast of Montpelier. Gravel pullout with room for 8 vehicles. No fee.

← Back to Targhee National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there bears on the Bear Gulch Trail?
Yes. Black bears are present throughout the southern Targhee area and the berry-rich terrain of Bear Gulch provides good habitat. Make noise while hiking, carry bear spray, and review proper bear encounter practices from USFS wildlife safety guidance before your visit.
How long is the Bear Gulch Trail?
The out-and-back covers 5.5 miles round trip with 900 feet of elevation gain. The gentle creek-valley gradient makes this one of the more leisurely moderate hikes in the southern forest. Most hikers complete it in 3 to 4 hours.
What is the terrain like on Bear Gulch Trail?
The lower gulch follows the creek through riparian forest with some boulder hopping at stream crossings. The upper sections enter more open terrain with scattered conifer and meadow. The trail is not heavily maintained but is generally easy to follow.
Is water available on the trail?
Bear Gulch Creek flows alongside much of the trail but should be treated before drinking. Carry a filter or purification tablets. Creek flow decreases in late summer but the lower sections usually retain flow through September.