Hiking in Kalispell: Herron Park

Hiking in Kalispell: Herron Park

Our first hike as residents of Montana took place just a few days after we arrived in our new hometown of Kalispell. We were looking for something in the area that would allow us to get a little fresh air and exercise without a long drive, and we located Herron Park on a map.

Only about 10 minutes outside of Kalispell, Herron Park is convenient and has various options for visitors. The area is popular with mountain bikers, joggers, hikers and horseback riders. We saw all of the above except horses but we did see evidence they were there recently!

From the park entrance, we followed Notch Trail up to where it met the Overlook Trail, and then we took Overlook Trail to Foy’s Overlook so we could see the area from above. If you look at the photo below of the Kalispell vista, you might be able to see a long white building on the right middle of the photo. Our car is parked there. So the trail did increase our altitude somewhat.

On the return walk, we followed the Overlook Trail to the Direct Route, a round trip of a little less than 4 miles. This was really more of a walk than a hike as the trails were all very well cleared and contained easy slopes.

There are a lot more options for hikes at this park. Herron Park includes Plum Creek Road Trail which travels about 3.3 miles until it connects with the Chase Trail. Taking Chase, you can hike to the Chase Overlook, which is about another mile. And from there you could take the “Foy’s to Blacktail Trail” which is a nearly 14 mile hike. We were not feeling that energetic!

The park also has horse stables and restrooms (outhouses).

If you’re looking for somewhere to go for a hike in the Kalispell area, try Herron Park. It’s convenient, and has many options for trails and activities. We loved it!