Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness

As it winds northward through the range of the same name, the Madison River cuts a 1500 foot cleft in the granitic rock. That cleft has become a piece of wilderness heaven for floaters, hikers and fisherman: Bear Trap Canyon.

The first BLM wilderness in the country, Bear Trap now comprises 6,000 acres within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness of southwest Montana. It offers a variety of whitewater, angling and hiking possibilities. Rightfully famous, Bear Trap also suffers from its reknown. Expect it to be heavily used on weekends and do everything you can to keep it pristine - including picking up after others.

Hiking

To hike the canyon, you need to start at the northern (lower) end. The trailhead is off highway 84, near a bridge crossing the Madison River 8 miles northeast of Norris. The trailhead is 3 miles up a gravel road.

The trail follows the river the 9 miles up the canyon. The first third is easy going, then the route becomes a bit more strenuous as it rises above the river. The rock walls you are hiking beneath are spectacular, and watch for the abundant wildlife that makes this its home.

This is low country compared to the surrounding area. If you are used to a cool wind in the Montana mountains, you may find yourself sweltering in Bear Trap during the heart of the summer. And you may see a rattlesnake or two.

The south entrance to Bear Trap, by the Montana Power Company's generating facilities, is closed to access for hikers.

Floating

One local fellow claims to have kayaked Bear Trap during every month of the year. He got a bit chilled during his December run and pulled out all the stops - nine miles in two hours!

Most floaters prefer the 4 to 5 hours run during warmer weather. Ideal water flow for running the river is 1,500 to 2,200 cubic feet per second. Check locally for the current flow, which is usually posted on a bulletin board at the launch site. It varies greatly, from 900 to 10,000 cfs, depending on the season, dam releases, and weather.

A boat ramp below Fall Creek on the southern end of the canyon provides a launch site. Floaters reach the upper canyon from U.S. Highway 287, 7 miles north of Ennis at McAllister. Turn east at McAllister and proceed for 4 miles on a graveled road along the north shore of Ennis Lake. From here, a narrow dirt road, single-lane with turnouts, winds 3 miles through Montana Power Company (MPC) land to the launch site. Through a cooperative agreements with MPC, BLM has responsibility for managing recreation in the 3-mile river corridor. Please drive slowly with appropriate caution.

Parking is provided just upstream at Fall Creek. Keep in mind this area is used by the Montana Power Company. Launching futher downriver or leaving vehicles at the boat ramp disrupts the power operations and other boaters.

The BLM issues a stern warning about floating the Bear Trap. The canyon contains several dangerous rapids which have destroyed boats and killed floaters in past years. Accidents have generally resulted from: (1) inexperience; (2) lack of preparation; (3) inadequate equipment; (4) bad judgment, and (5) alcohol use. Don't become a statistic by underestimating the hazards of the canyon. Remember, this is an isolated area and rescue is difficult.

A couple of local outfitters hold permits to float the Bear Trap and offer guided trips for those not thoroughly experienced with floats of this difficulty. Check locally.

Fishing

Any well-informed angler knows the Madison River is famous for its trout. The stretch through Bear Trap is prime territory. Fisherman can follow the trail up the canyon from its northern end. Many anglers choose to camp upcanyon to catch the early morning/late evening fishing. Expect campsites to be heavily used.

Fisherman can also try the southern end. A trail on the west side opposite the powerhouse provides access. To fish the east side, follow Trail Creek trail, located a half mile northeas of Ennis Lake.

Montana fishing licenses are required. Check locally for current fishing regulations set by the state.

Special Regulations

Montana Power Company's Madison hydroelectric plant dates back to the turn of the century. MPC allows public recreation on their lands but asks that visitors be considerate of MPC facilities and/or land while using the area. With heavy use of Bear Trap concentrated along the shoreline, the BLM also has placed certain restrictions on Bear Trap to safeguard its wilderness nature. Please cooperate by complying with the following regulations:

• The upper canyon is a day use area only. No camping is allowed.
  
• Fires are permitted in contained charcoal grills, but open fires are not permitted.
  
• No shooting of firearms or animal trapping.
  
• Park vehicles only in designated areas. There is no public parking permitted downstream from Fall Creek. Floaters may drive beyond Fall Creek to quickly unload boats and gear before returning vehicles to the parking area.
  
• Floaters are prohibited from camping within the wilderness in order to maximize solitude for others. Floaters may camp just north of the wilderness at the Red Mountain campground.
  
• Floaters, if you intend to have a fire, a fire pan is required. Fire pans prevent fire scars and simplify packing ashes out of the wilderness.
  
• Backpackers may camp overnight, but are limited to 3 consecutive days in the wilderness.
  
• Pack and saddle stock are limited to the period between October 15 and December 15.