About This Hike

OPPORTUNITIES: Hiking, jogging, biking, scenery, photos, horseback riding, picnicking, dog walking, fishing & hunting 

ATTRACTIONS & CONSIDERATIONS: This prehistoric trail follows the Kootenai River through old structures and orchards and bighorn sheep ranges. Eagles, osprey, river otters, and Harlequin ducks may be seen as well as an abundance of wildlife. This is a very popular trail and benches are located throughout the course for those wishing to contemplate with nature. The trail gets more primitive at the end, but you can hike all the way to the Swinging Bridge. Fishing along the Kootenai River is excellent, so be sure to take along a fishing pole. TRAIL INFORMATION: This is an improved trail with a gravel lift and drainage and provides excellent access for hiking, jogging, dog walking and biking. Trail #42 offers an excellent family opportunity and has the highest use on Libby Ranger District. The trail is a crush surfaced road that  parallels the Kootenai River. Bighorn sheep were planted here in the 1970s and are regularly seen. The Black Eagle Rock trail leaves the main trail near the trailhead. Black Eagle Rock is a very short climbing trail that ends on top of a large rock outcropping offering a spectacular view of the Kootenai River. The trail gets fairly primitive from China Creek to Kootenai Creek; however the views of the Kootenai Falls area are incredible.

From Libby, turn left onto Highway 37. Cross over the Kootenai River bridge and take a left onto Kootenai River Road. Travel approximately 7 miles. You will come to the end of the road and the beginning of the trailhead.