Numa Ridge Lookout

Be prepared to spend at least seven hours on this10.5 mile round trip hike to Numa Ridge Lookout.
The trailhead is The Bowman Lake Trail. You hike North from the Bowman Lake Boat Launch. After hiking about 7/10 of a mile you will find the Numa Ridge Lookout Trail.
Be prepared for a hike that will take you along some very steep climbs and bring plenty of drinking water. There is none available at the lookout.
The hike starts out along Bowman Lake through some lovely quiet forests. Watch for the different birds and animals who are also enjoying these trees. You will soon leave the lake views behind as you continue on through the forest, enjoying the company of busy squirrels and the startling sounds of a ruffed grouse taking to the air. You will come to Moose Pond on your right. But, you will not find a cleared path to get you to it?s shores. This is a small pond but beautifully lined with water lilies and other water plants.
Traveling on you soon begin to climb following switchbacks as they take you on to the top. Here you will be walking on limestone near the lookout. You can enjoy watching as the Falcons and Pikas enjoy the higher altitude,
Now you will have reached 6,960 feet, at Numa Ridge Lookout. Looking down you can once again see Moose Pond. You will also see Akokala Lake. Having a great view of the mountains around you. You will see Mount Carter, Rainbow Peak, and Reuter Peak, as well as Numa Peak, which is over 9,000 feet.
Keeping an ever so watchful eye on the timberline, you may be able to see bear and deer as well as an elk.
Now that you have rested from this long climb, the thought of going down on your return is refreshing.

Enjoy hiking the Numa Ridge Lookout Trail and share your experiences with others.
Verna Parks

Glacier National Park
PO Box 128
West Glacier,MT,59936
Phone: (406) 888 7800
Email: glac_questions@nps.gov