Hike Dragon's Tail Ridge
Browning, Montana
Details
Distance
3 miles
Elevation Gain
1800 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Derek Vander Ark
Dragon's Tail is a ridge line that overlooks Hidden Lake, and truly exhibits the beauty of the great heights in Glacier National Park. The hike isn't too far from Logan's Pass Visitor Center, and you're guaranteed to see some wildlife along the way.
Starting from Logan's Pass, make your way along the boardwalk that leads to the Hidden Lake Overlook. Depending on the previous winter, there may be quite a bit of snow covering large portions of the boardwalk and trail that leads to Dragon's Tail, so it is suggested that you take any necessary precautions so you don't slip.
The boardwalk should last about 3/4 of a mile, but follow the trail for another 1/4 mile. At this point, you will be at the base of Mount Clements. Continue over a small hill (likely that there are mountain goats in this area), and upon reaching the other side of the hill there will be two small bodies of water. Hike past the first pond and there will be a narrow dirt trail that leads South just before the second pond. This narrow trail will divert the hiker to Dragon's Tail. If you have reached the Hidden Lake Overlook, you have gone too far.
The trail will lead through a few small patches of trees, and will gradually become less of a dirt path and more shale rock. The trail will start to ascend towards Mount Reynolds. About a mile of ascent, the trail will lead to a saddle between Reynolds and another ridge line, continue on the shale rock trail that hugs the west side of Mount Reynolds for about a half mile. The most rigorous portion of the hike is hiking around Reynolds, the shale rock can be unforgiving and shift. Once around to the next saddle, the trail splits off between summiting Reynolds or summiting Dragon's Tail.
Make sure to head south west, and walk along the ridgeline. At this point, you will find yourself on Dragon's Tail and you be careful as the ridge line has exposed areas on both sides. Climb and walk along the ridgeline (quarter-mile) until you reach a gap. There is an alternate route that leads to the "actual" summit of Dragon's Tail, but the ridge line offers incredible views of The Garden Wall, Reynolds, Bearhat, Clements, and many other mountain peaks. If you bring headlamps, it is stunning to watch the sunset at that height (8,450 ft.)
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Hike Dragon's Tail Ridge Reviews
People have died doing this hike. This should not be advertised on here. Goat trails not maintain. Expert/mountaineer ONLY.
2.0
Hiking the Dragon's Tail is not only rewarding with the views, but how many people can say that they have climbed the Dragon's Tail?
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Nearby
Hidden Lake Overlook
Reynolds Mountain
Summit Reynolds Mountain via the North Face Ascent Route
Photography on Logan Pass
Piegan Mountain
The Garden Wall
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