Moose Mountain Loop

Dogs Off-leash

Features Fishing · Lake · River/Creek

Much of the trail is surrounded by huckleberry bushes. The scenic Moose Lake is only a short way up the trail and Blacktail Lake is well worth seeing if you are up for adding another mile to your hike. The 360-degree views from the peak are absolutely unbeatable and make up for the steep climb.

There is a bathroom in the parking lot. Both lakes and the trail up the mountain were very buggy. Both bridges across the creek on the way out were collapsed but useable.

The trail starts off fairly flat and smooth up to Moose Lake. There are some roots and rocks to watch out for, but the trail is well-marked. Once you have had your fill of the lake, follow the signs to where the trail wraps around the right side of the lake and starts a steep climb up the rocky slopes to the peak of Moose Mountain. The really steep sections of the trail have loose rock, so be really careful with your footing. Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are a highlight from the peak and are worth the steep climb.

The trail descends less steeply down the far side of the mountain through grassy glades and fields of huckleberry bushes. Hang a left at the 'Y' and follow the signs to the boardwalk which takes you out to Blacktail Lake (I promise it's worth the extra mile!). The trail here is nearly flat and ends on the slightly marshy shore of the lake.

On your way back out, stay left at the 'Y' again and continue down the main trail. It will take you down the side of the mountain on some long switchbacks so the trail here isn't as steep, though it was nearly brushed over. Near the bottom, there are a couple bridges across the creek, both of which were collapsed but still crossable. Be careful while crossing because they were a little unstable in places. When you connect back with the main trail, head left to go back down to the trailhead and parking lot.

Lots of huckleberry bushes and mosquitoes. Depending on the time of year, lots of wildflowers.