Babcock Mountain Trail is a popular early-season hike in the Rock Creek area of Lolo National Forest, approximately 30 miles east of Missoula. The trailhead is just over two miles down Rock Creek Road, and the route blossoms with wildflowers in early spring and many great views of the Rock Creek Valley as it switchbacks up a Sapphire Mountain slope. The route tops out on a retired Forest Service road with partial views, and hikers can continue north or south for extended adventures.
Park in the moderate pull-out (enough for 6+ cars) on the creekside of Rock Creek Road. The trailhead is across the road, unsigned, but a clear passage into the woods. From there, the route climbs the entire way with a moderate grade, utilizing several switchbacks and crossing open terrain (shadeless) and an easy-to-follow path. The views of Rock Creek expand with each switchback, with the first worthwhile and stunning views coming within the first half mile.
The route tops out in an anti-climactic fashion, onto a tree-lined old Forest Service Road with limited views. However, if you follow this road to the left for less than a quarter-mile, a long-distance view of Lolo National Forest comes into view. Or, take a right on the retired Forest Service Road and follow for a few more miles to approach the Bobcat Mountain summit. Either way, descend the same route back down to the parking area.
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