Logging Creek Road (Inside North Fork Road)
Glacier's forgotten backcountry access road
The Inside North Fork Road represents Glacier National Park’s wild side—a 40-mile dirt road that follows the North Fork Flathead River to the Canadian border. This isn’t your typical park experience; it’s rough, dusty, and completely undeveloped, passing through dense forest with glimpses of the Livingston Range. The road connects several primitive campgrounds including Logging Creek, where you’ll find the park’s most remote developed camping and trailheads into true wilderness country.
Any vehicle can technically make this run, but high clearance helps with the washboards and occasional rocks. The road closes with first snow, usually October through May. No special permits needed beyond park entry, but bring everything you need—there’s no services for 40 miles. Logging Creek Campground offers vault toilets and fire rings, but no water. What makes this special is the solitude and access to trails that see maybe a dozen people all season. It’s Glacier before the crowds discovered it.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt |
| Features | Camping, Remote, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 40 mi / 64.4 km |
| Duration | 1-2 days |
| Max elevation (ft) | 3400 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle (high clearance recommended) |
| Nearest town | West Glacier, Montana |
| Land manager | Glacier National Park |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | None |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can I drive this trail in a regular car or do I need 4WD?
Any vehicle can make it, but high clearance is recommended for the rougher sections. A stock SUV or pickup will handle it fine, though passenger cars might scrape on some rocks.
Is Logging Creek Road open in winter?
No, it's only accessible May through October when snow clears. Early season (May-June) can still have muddy sections from snowmelt.
Do I need permits to camp along Logging Creek Road?
Yes, backcountry camping permits are required since this is inside Glacier National Park. Reserve through the NPS website or get walk-up permits at the backcountry office.
What's the most challenging part of this trail?
The road gets progressively rougher as you head north, with some rocky sections and creek crossings near the end. Nothing technical, just slow going over bumpy terrain.
How far can I drive before needing to refuel?
At 40 miles one-way plus your drive to the trailhead, budget at least 100+ miles total. Fill up in West Glacier before heading out since there's no gas once you're on the trail.