Coal Creek Trail - Glacier National Park

Coal Creek can be reached by starting at Nyack Creek ford at the north bank of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River. From Nyack Creek to the junction with Cutbank Pass Trail and Coal Creek it is approximately 17 miles. The trail then leaves Nyack valley and begins moderate ascent to surprise Pass which is approximately 3.7 miles. At the junction of Martha's Basin trail, turn right for Buffalo Woman Lake of Beaver Woman Lake campground. Keep left for Coal Creek. Trail will descend into Coal Creek valley, crossing the creek five times. At approximately 31.2 miles into the hike you will reach Coal Creek Campground, then the trail continues gradual decent. Next you will reach Coal Creek patrol cabin and approximately 3.6 miles trail will junction with Boundary trail. Stay left for Coal Creek ford (0.4 miles). Turn right for Nyack Creek ford. At approximately mile 38 you will reach Nyack Creek ford connector trail. Turn left for the ford. Another 0.1 mile you will reach Middle Fork.

Length: 14.9 miles

Trail Begins: Middle Fork River

Trail Ends: Surprise Pass Trail

USGS Map1: Park Map