Upper Graywolf River Trail

A wide mountain basin. Three different tarns can be seen, the uppermost still partially covered with ice. Most of the basin is snow free, although many small snowfields still linger. A mountain much taller than the rest looms high in the background. — High on the Upper Graywolf trail
Jim Patterson

Description
Trail Conditions
Camping
Special Concerns
Safety
Map

Notices:

Bear canisters should be used for food storage above Falls Camp. Trees are generally too small to hang your food properly.
For more information on how to obtain a Wilderness Permit click here.

Description

Ecosystem type: Montane forest, subalpine forest, subalpine meadow
Trail tread types: Maintained
General elevation trend: Moderate to steep
Unique features: High subalpine terrain, low forested river valleys
Level of difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Distance: 11.5 miles
Elevation change: 2050 feet to 6200 feet
Best Season: Early July through October

Camping
Food Storage Method: Bear canisters are required in the subalpine high country where food cannot be hung at least 12 feet high and 10 feet out from the nearest tree trunk.
Campsites: Three Forks, Gray Wolf Camp, Camp Ellis, and Falls Camp (2 small sites).
Toilet Facilities: Graywolf Camp. Elsewhere, bury waste 6-8" deep and 200 feet from water sources and campsites. Please pack out toilet paper.
Water Source: Gray Wolf River and nearby streams. Always boil, filter, or chemically treat your drinking water to prevent Giardia.
Stock: Allowed. See Stock Use.

Special Concerns

Leave No Trace: Practice Leave No Trace during your stay to protect the resource and vegetation. Camp in established sites or on bare ground.
Campfires: To protect sensitive vegetation, campfires are not allowed above 3,500 feet. Leave no trace of your fire ring. Burn dead and down wood only.
Respect Wildlife: To protect bears and other wildlife, all food, garbage, and scented items must be secured from all wildlife 24 hours a day. Bear canisters are recommended in this area.

Safety

Always carry the 10 Essentials: map, compass, flashlight, knife, matches, nylon cord, extra food and water, and rain gear with warm clothes.
Map & compass navigation skills may be necessary in places along this trail when snow covered. Snow may cover higher reaches of this trail in any season, so know how to navigate without a trail for guidance.
Let someone know where and when you are taking your hike. Make emergency plans for them to follow if you do not return.
Watch the weather before and during your hike. Storms move quickly. Whiteouts are sudden. Read the weather forecasts, but remember to read the weather in front of your eyes.

Trail Conditions