Hiking Trails
Mouth of Montana Creek hike:
Level: Novice
Go west to the mouth of Montana Creek, where it flows into the Susitna River. The walk to the midpoint is short and pleasant, then the trail goes under railroad tracks. From there, the trail is unimproved. You can also stroll on other trails to view wildflowers and berries.
Luthman Trail to the Montana Creek Falls
Level: Extreme
The Luthman Trail is one of the most beautiful day hikes in the entire Upper Susitna Valley. The trail is named after the local homesteader who discovered the falls 30 years ago and built most of the trail himself. The trail is nine miles round-trip. To get to the trail, drive north on the Talkeetna Spur Road to Mile 3. Turn right on Yoder Road and cross Montana Creek Bridge (approximately 2.6 miles). Turn left immediately after the bridge and park in the trailhead parking lot. (Shuttle service to the parking lot is available from our campground. There is a fee for this service.) Take caution. Prior floods removed pedestrian bridges built by the Upper Susitna seniors several years ago. Several stream crossings must be made, some on fallen logs, but others are more easily accomplished by wading across. Be aware that this stream can become swollen and dangerous at times of high water. Close to the falls, the stream is forced into a narrow, raging stream tumbling over large boulders. Montana Creek Falls is a two-tiered fall. To see the uppermost fall (which is the more spectacular of the two), climb the steep hill that begins where the trail appears to end. This portion of the trail is so overgrown it is barely discernible, but a beautiful view awaits those who persevere.
Montana Creek Falls