The Ultimate Guide to Lone Pine State Park
I spent a lot of time in Lone Pine State Park since I grew up in Kalispell, and it was a fantastic way to get out and explore nature without having to drive miles in order to do it. One of my favorite parts about it is that you can explore Lone Pine in any season, making it perfect for those looking to enjoy a short hike before exploring the rest that Kalispell has to offer.
Everything you need to know about Lone Pine State Park
Here’s what you need to know before heading to Lone Pine State Park!
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Map of Lone Pine State Park
Where is Lone Pine State Park?
Lone Pine State Park is located in Kalispell, Montana. Sitting on the edge of Kalispell and overlooking Flathead Valley, there are scenic views in every direction. Lone Pine Park is four miles southwest of Kalispell on Foys Lake Road, then one mile east on Lone Pine Road.
It is located on a hillside just south of city limits, near Glacier National Park. The simplest way to get there would be to take I-90 west and then head north to Kalispell. It’s one of the most beloved parks in Kalispell, MT.
How big is Lone Pine State Park?
There are trails for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and even horseback riding. With 270 acres and 7.5 miles of trails, there is plenty of room for multiple adventures. With its size, there is no wonder there are so many different ventures and breathtaking views at every turn. It’s a great option for Montana state Parks near Glacier to visit since it doesn’t get a ton of people.
I’m leading tours in Lone Pine this summer! You can check them out here!
When is the Lone Pine State Park Visitors Center open and what can I do there?
Before heading out to the park, stop at the Lone Pine Visitors Center, open all year round. They are closed every Monday and Tuesday. Wednesdays-Saturday they open at 10 am and close at 3 pm. On Sundays, they open at noon and close at 3 pm.
Once you enter the Lone Pine Visitors Center, you will be greeted by a fake grizzly bear mount with some information points telling you some fun facts about the local bears. There are highlights about the park’s wildlife, a gift shop, hands-on exhibits perfect for the kiddos, and maps to let you know which trails to take when you head out to the park.
If you are there on a business trip, the Lone Pine State Park Visitor Center has a fantastic meeting room with audio-visual equipment, and it fits up to 100 people.
What hours is Lone Pine State Park open?
Whether there is snow on the ground or dark clouds in the sky, the Lone Pine State Park in Montana is open all year round! The park hours for winter are Monday through Sunday, 8 am to 8 pm. Summer hours are Monday through Sunday, 8 am to 10 pm.
How much does it cost to enter Lone Pine State Park?
If you are new to Lone Pine in Montana and are looking to park here for the day, there is a day-use entrance fee with the vehicle of $8. If you are being dropped off here as a walk, the entrance fee will only be $4. If you purchased a non-resident entrance pass that it is free. Locals! The park has no daily entrance fee if you pay $9 at the Lone Pine State Park fee with your annual vehicle registration.
What are some things to do in Lone Pine?
Lone Pine State Park in Kalispell, MT has plenty of activities for everybody. The park offers gorgeous views of the mountains, and there are Montana State parks scenic vistas overlooking the Flathead Valley into the Glacier National Park. There are over a dozen hiking trails to take advantage of—some of which you can catch some incredible wildlife sightings. Several signs and maps along the routes make it easier to navigate.
Some other fun activities at Lone State Park are archery, and you will not find another public range for miles. Horseback riding, mountain biking, and a spacious picnic area to stop and have some lunch. If you are a bicyclist, check out Lone Pine Bike Park. Are you coming in the winter? They have snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Regardless of what time of year you visit, Lone Pine is one of the best things to do in Kalispell, MT by far.
Can you camp in Lone Pine State Park?
Lone Pine, MT has campgrounds for tents and RVs. There are plenty of amenities such as BBQ grills, fire pits, and sheltered picnic areas. Lone Pine State Park also offers clean ADA-accessible bathrooms and regions. Camping in Kalispell, MT, is a great way to spend a weekend and provides easy camping near Lone Pine. If you need help finding the perfect place to set up camp, don’t forget to visit the Lone Pine Visitor Center with a knowledgeable staff that will guide you in the right direction.
Can I bring my dog to Lone Pine State Park?
Short answer, yes! Dogs are allowed. There are some rules to go by when bringing your pup so both you, your furry companion, and others around you can have a relaxing experience on the Lone Pine Trail.
- A dog leash can not be longer than 8 feet long.
- Do not leave a mess. All dog owners are responsible for picking up their pet’s waste.
- Respect the wildlife. Do not allow dogs to wander off and interact with the animals within the park.
- Keep the bark to a minimum. You do not want to ruin other visitors’ tranquil experience with excess barking.
- Do not bathe pets in recreational swimming areas.
Can I rent snowshoes in Lone Pine?
Lone Pine State Park in Kalispell provides a scenic view of the entire valley with some great trails for snowshoeing. Snowshoes are available at the visitor center and are $5 per person and $10 per family.
Hikes in Lone Pine State Park
Whether you are looking for an easy hike with the family or something a little more challenging, Lone Pine State Park has over seven miles of hiking trails open all season long. All routes are nicely traversed, with plenty of markers to guide your way. Here is a list of some of the trails that will give you an idea of length and difficulty.
Lone Pine Trail
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.9 miles
This trail loops through the entire park and provides views from the main outlook near the visitors center. Keep a lookout for others using the trail, including horseback riders and mountain bikers. You should always let them pass! While this trail is considered moderate, for the most part it is pretty easy–there is some elevation and the end or the beginning depending on which way you choose to take on the trail.
Western Larch and Cliff Trail Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 2.8 miles
This is a great trail for beginning hikers and for those who want to get a view of the entire Flathead Valley. Dogs are welcome, just make sure that they are on a leash. Lone Pine is never super crowded, so you can enjoy this stroll with a slight elevation gain without worrying about seeing a ton of people. There are also several benches along the way if you would like to take a quick break.
Raptor’s Rest and Cliff Trail Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.4 miles
This shorter version of the Cliff Trail Loop is ideal for snowshoers and those looking to fit in a quick hike before heading out to some Kalispell restaurants! It’s also a perfect option for kids and a great opportunity to teach them about the local environment and how to protect it. Don’t be surprised if you see a family of deer along your hike!
Bearly There Loop Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.3 miles
This super easy hike in Lone Pine State Park is “bearly” there, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not worth checking out! At 1.3 miles, you can use it as a stroll after work or as chance to get the kiddos out in nature for about an hour. With little elevation gain, you don’t have to worry about exerting yourself too much, and you also get some time to spend enjoying the peacefulness of the park.
Western Larch and Lone Pine Trail Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.6 miles
Like the Bearly There Trail, this trail is nothing too strenuous, but it serves as a wonderful way to get outside and enjoy Montana nature for an hour or so. Go ahead and get lost–the trail is well-marked and you shouldn’t have a difficult time getting back to the start since it’s a loop. For those looking for a relaxing stroll in nature, this is the trail for you!
Have you ever made it to Lone Pine State Park? What is your favorite activity to do there?
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