Old Highway 2 Historic Trail - East

This trail offers a nice alternative to the popular Kootenai Falls Trail, less than a half-mile and on the other side of the modern Highway 2 in Northwest Montana, connecting Libby and Troy. The original Highway 2 was hand-sewn into the side of the mountain, high above the Kootenai River Valley, and it’s hard to believe Model Ts once navigated the high route throughout the 1910s. 

Today, the route is open to hikers and bicyclists, offering a moderate grade, gently climbing high above the river valley for spectacular views. Weathered Interpretative signs line the route, offering information on the history of the old highway, as well as information on the local flora and fauna defining the landscape. 

It’s a there-and-back adventure with the route spanning approximately 2.5 miles in one direction. Parking is available at either end of the route, with the west parking accessible from Highway 56 (Bull Lake Road). For extra mileage, hikers can opt to circle Shannon Lake on the west end, where other trails also sprawl out into the Cabinet Mountains.