Old-Growth Forests in Yaak River Country

The Old-Growth Forests in Yaak River Country is a 170-mile loop day drive that begins and ends in Libby, Montana. The route also enters Rexford, Yaak, and Troy, Montana.

The famous author Rick Bass was once a resident of Yaak River Valley. He wrote about the beauty of living in the great state of Montana and was inspired by this area.

The area borders Kaniksu National Forest and Kootenai National Forest. The entire drive enters and exits lush Lodgepole Pines, Western Larch, and Douglas Fir forest areas.

It also offers fantastic opportunities to venture off the path for some sightseeing and hiking. Most of the towns are oriented to outdoor recreation. Lots of people come to visit to hike a remote mountain trail.

The drive highlights Okaga Lake, Mcguire Mountain, Kootenai Falls, Clingback Mountain, Libby dam, Lake Koocanusa, Mount Henry, Yaak River Falls, Caribou Mountain, and so much more!

Optional excursions include: Visiting the Kootenai Falls Suspension Bridge Visiting the Yaak River Falls Exploring the Turner Mountain Ski Area Hiking the Ross Creek Giant Cedars Nature Trail Hiking the Cabinet Mountain lookout trail Hiking the Garver mountain lookout Trail You can take the drive in its entirety over about five hours, or you can extend it for a couple of days for a weekend full of adventure!

Some camping opportunities in the area are the Dunn Creek Campground, Yarnell Island Campground, Rocky Gorge Campground, Peck Gulch Campground, Rexford Bench Campground, Caribou Campground, and Pete Creek Whitetail Creek Campground, Yaak Falls Campground, and the Kootenai River Campground.

Use caution when driving, wear your seatbelt, and don't exceed the speed limit.