Montana · Hiking

West Fork Watkins

7.2 mi
round trip
1,342 ft
climb
9,154 ft
high point
Out and back
route

Is West Fork Watkins open right now?

Closure in the area

There's a closure order in Custer Gallatin National Forest. It doesn't name West Fork Watkins, so check the source for the area it covers (16 listed).

As of · Source: USFS · Custer Gallatin National Forest. Agencies don't list every closure — check before you go.

West Fork Watkins is a hard hike in the Hebgen Lake Ranger District of Custer Gallatin National Forest in Montana, about 7 miles from the trail's low point at 7,788 feet to the high point at 9,154 feet. The Forest Service manages the land, and the trail is an out-and-back route with a one-way climb of about 1,340 feet. Bikes and horses are both allowed on the trail, which has a natural surface. That makes it a practical choice for riders and pack animals. Coffin Lakes is just over half a mile away, and Lionhead and Watkins Creek are both within about 2.3 miles. For an overnight stay, Spring Creek Camp Area is about 3 miles off.

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