| NetDescriptions | The main trailhead for these trails is the parking area near the 1913 Ranger Station. Take U.S. Highway 89 to the town of St. Mary. After entering the park, follow the signs to the 1913 Ranger Station. Winter backcountry camping permits may be obtained at the Hudson Bay District Office. Call ahead to ensure staff will be available to issue permits.
Red Eagle Loops
Mileage varies
These specially designated and marked loops offer fine skiing through the aspen, meadows, and mixed conifer stands in the rolling hills east of St. Mary Lake. The distances are one mile for the Lion Loop, 2.5 miles for the Eagle Loop, and 3.5 miles for the Elk Loop.
Red Eagle Lake Trail
8 miles round trip
Follow the first part of the Eagle and Elk Loops to the old fire road, now called the Red Eagle Lake Trail, and ski the rolling terrain to the scenic bluff overlooking Red Eagle Creek. There are great views of the mountains along St. Mary Lake and the Red Eagle Valley.
Divide Creek Trail
7 miles
The Blackfeet Tribe requires a permit, obtainable at the tribal Fish & Game office in Browning, to ski on the reservation. This trail is much easier to ski downhill from the highway on Hudson Bay Divide to the Hudson Bay District Office trailhead. Start at an orange stake on Highway 89, 4.5 miles south of St. Mary. Begin on the logging access road which skirts the bottom edge of several clear-cuts, then descends to Divide Creek. Use caution when crossing the creek and climbing out along the steep, narrow hillside. The route then follows the old highway route to the Red Eagle Trail and back to the trailhead via one of the loop accesses. This route is recommended for intermediate to advanced skiers. |