Doris Ridge Trail

The difficulty varies significantly depending on the route you choose. There's a shorter segment, often referred to as the "Doris Ridge Trail," which is about 2.5 miles long and considered to have a low difficulty, leading through the Doris Lakes Basin. However, the longer "Doris Mountain Ridge Trail" is approximately 23 miles, features a significant elevation gain of 1454 meters, and is graded as moderate to strenuous, with some sections near the summit of Doris Mountain being quite steep.

The terrain is diverse. The shorter segments are generally dirt paths, especially around the Doris Lakes Basin. On the longer routes, you'll experience wooded areas, open ridges, and potentially very steep, rocky sections as you ascend towards Doris Mountain. Be prepared for variations, including some descents into basins that require regaining elevation.

The trail is known for its stunning scenery. You'll find picturesque turquoise lakes in the Doris Lakes Basin. The summit of Doris Mountain offers 360-degree panoramic views, contrasting farmland with majestic mountains, and even glimpses of Glacier National Park. During the right season, the ridges are adorned with magnificent wildflowers like Indian Paintbrush, beargrass, and glacier lilies.

Accessing the trailhead can be challenging. The road leading to it is described as very rough with many switchbacks. It is not recommended for vehicles with low clearance. Plan to use a high-clearance vehicle to avoid difficulties.

Yes, the Doris Mountain Ridge Trail, which includes parts of the Doris Ridge Trail system, is dog-friendly. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow any posted leash regulations to protect wildlife and other hikers.

The best time to hike is typically from late spring through early fall when the trail is snow-free and wildflowers are in bloom. Summer offers warm weather and full access, while fall brings vibrant colors. Winter conditions can make the trail inaccessible or require specialized gear due to snow and ice.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for day hiking on trails like Doris Ridge within the Flathead National Forest. However, if you plan to camp overnight in the backcountry, you may need to check with the local ranger district for any specific regulations or permits. Always practice Leave No Trace principles.

The shorter, 2.5-mile segment through the Doris Lakes Basin is considered to have low difficulty and could be suitable for families or beginners. However, the longer routes, especially those ascending Doris Mountain, are much more strenuous with significant elevation gain and steep sections, making them less suitable for young children or inexperienced hikers.

Yes, the shorter Doris Ridge Trail segment connects to the more extensive Alpine Trail 7, offering options for longer excursions and linking into a broader trail network.

Beyond hiking, the broader Doris Mountain Ridge Trail system is multi-use and popular for activities such as mountain biking, trail running, bike-touring, and camping. The area is also suitable for wildlife viewing and fishing in the lakes.

For any hike, especially on the longer routes, bring plenty of water, snacks, appropriate layers of clothing for changing weather, navigation tools (map, compass, or GPS), sun protection, and a first-aid kit. Bear spray is also recommended due to the presence of wildlife in the Flathead National Forest. For the shorter trail, sturdy shoes and water are essential.