WN Hiking Series: Alexander Mountain Trail

With the sun shining bright and Lake Koocanusa’s water so blue, it seemed like the perfect time and place to take a hike.

Of course, finding a trail not covered in ice at this time of the year can be a challenge. The Alexander Mountain Trail above Lake Koocanusa included patches of ice here and there but all in all, it turned out to be a good outing on a pleasant day in early March.

To reach the trail, take Highway 37 out of Libby toward the dam. Take a left onto the byway road that takes you past the Libby Dam Visitor Center. Past the visitor center and before McGillivray Campground, you will find signs pointing to the Alexander Mountain Trail, which is identified on Kootenai National Forest maps as Trail No. 270.

You may notice an earlier turnoff for Alexander Creek Road – but don’t be confused; that is the incorrect location.

Located on the west side of the road, the Alexander Mountain Trail takes you alongside the highway for a short distance before climbing upward. And make no mistake, this trail will test beginners with its climb. Less than a mile in, you’ll come across a scenic overlook with great views of Koocanusa and the mountains beyond. A bench is located in this spot for those who need a quick rest.

Beyond the overlook, the trail becomes more challenging and as of the first week this month, did have spots of ice. For those who may hike it early this spring, just be careful in the areas where you find ice – especially on the way down. You will also experience a couple of short excursions through snow but the trail climbs out of it.

There are at least three more good spots along the way to enjoy views of the reservoir. At the top of Alexander Mountain, the views are exceptional – at least on a clear day. You’ll see nearby Vermiculite Mountain and Fleetwood Point.

Although the distance of our hike was not calculated exactly, from looking at a map and taking into account the time we spent on the trail, my best estimate is that we went about five miles round-trip.

Alexander Mountain Trail

Location: Kootenai National Forest

USFS Trail No.: 270

How to Get There: From Libby, drive east and north on Highway 37. After about 12 miles, take a left on the bypass road – also identified as Forest Development Road No. 228. Continue on for about five more miles (go past the Libby Dam Visitor Center) until you reach highway signs identifying the trailhead.

Round-Trip Distance: Approx. 5.0 miles

Difficulty: Moderate