Appreciate the peaceful woodland serenity of northwestern Montana at Lone Pine State Park. Bring a book or picnic lunch and appreciate the quiet while gazing out over scenic views. From the park see the green lowlands of Flathead Valley, the cloud-reflecting waters of Flathead Lake and the impressive snow-capped peaks of Glacier National Park.
Lone Pine State Park has 270 acres (110 hectares) of forest and glades, with its tallest peak at 3,644 feet (1,111 meters). When you enter the park, stop first at the visitor center for directions to hike or mountain bike along the park’s 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) of trails. The visitor center is open year-round. Bring your cross-country skis or rent snowshoes and trek over the glistening drifts on sunny winter days.
The visitor center and park rangers provide information about the local environment and wildlife as well as interpretive programs. Learn how to look for evidence of bears and wolves. Glance upward to see raptors soaring across the sky. If you’re in the area for an extended time, sign up for multi-week courses in yoga, nature photography, medicinal plants and other fascinating topics.
Take advantage of the park’s numerous activities and amenities, including an archery range, beach, horseshoe pitch, horseback riding trails, sheltered picnic areas and fire pits. Enjoy the colors of wildflowers in the spring and deciduous trees in fall. Bring your pet to run with you on trails through the forest.
Drive south from Kalispell toward Foys Lake to reach the park. Stop at this large body of water to swim, fish or boat in summer. In winter bring skates to glide across the ice of sheltered bays when the lake freezes.
Lone Pine State Park is open year-round. If you’re a Montana resident, enjoy free park access. Out-of-state guests pay small daily fees or can purchase an annual pass. Some courses have additional costs. Drive about 10 minutes from Kalispell and park at the visitor center.