Goat Lick

Overview

This is a super-short, family-friendly stop above the Middle Fork of the Flathead River where mountain goats gather to lick naturally occurring minerals in the cliff. The draw is the wildlife and geology, not the “hike.” The loop is about 0.2 miles total on a paved or hard-packed path to a series of fenced viewpoints. You’re here to scan the opposite bank for white dots that suddenly resolve into goats—binoculars make the experience.

The Walk

From the signed parking area along US‑2 near Essex (about 2.5 miles east of the Walton Ranger Station), a short, mostly level path leads to overlooks. Expect sheer drop-offs beyond railings and the ambient soundtrack of highway and occasional train noise. Figure 10–30 minutes unless you settle in to watch animals.

Why Goats Are Here

The riverbank exposes mineral-rich clays and evaporites that goats crave after winter—think sodium and other salts leaching from the cliff. It’s a front-row seat to geology shaping behavior: the lick concentrates wildlife where the minerals seep.

Best Times to Go

Goat activity peaks in spring through mid-summer (roughly April–August), with late May to mid-July often best. Dawn and dusk can be more productive and gentler for photography. Sightings are never guaranteed—some days it’s a herd, other days it’s none—so bring patience and optics. Winter access depends on snow; facilities may be closed, but the path is often still walkable when plowed areas exist.

Tips and Tradeoffs

• This is a quick, high-reward stop when driving US‑2 between the west and east sides. If you want an actual hike afterward, Stanton Lake (moderate ~3.8 miles round trip) is a nearby option.
• It can be busy in peak months; use the lot—parking on the highway shoulder or standing on the bridge isn’t allowed.
• Pets are typically allowed on leash here (it’s outside the main park boundary), but keep them well under control around wildlife.

Safety

Stay on the designated path and behind railings—cliffs and crumbly edges are real. Keep your distance from wildlife and view with binoculars. You’re in bear country: carry bear spray and know how to use it.