Summit Mountain

Oldest-to-younger rock juxtaposition along the Lewis Overthrust; Belt Supergroup rocks ~1.4–1.6 billion years old exposed near the Continental Divide.

Visible evidence of continental-scale thrust; Belt Supergroup rocks 1.4–1.6 billion years old; proximity to Marias Pass; Bailey Willis's 1901 recognition of the Lewis Overthrust

Drive to Summit Campground area and use the Summit Mountain Lodge overlook; parking is limited, with possible overflow parking during peak season.

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail traverses the upper slopes.

Continental Divide National Scenic Trail

Summit Mountain Lodge overlook; ridge vantage along the Continental Divide.

Sunset over the Divide from the lodge overlook; long-range panoramas of the mountain face and exposed rock strata.

Summit Mountain Lodge overlook; ridgeline exposures along the Continental Divide.

Grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, deer, elk

Rapidly changing mountain weather; cold temperatures; snow and ice persistence; potential afternoon thunderstorms in summer.

Continental Divide, Marias Pass, Summit Mountain Lodge, Summit Campground; Belt Supergroup geology

Summit Campground facilities; Summit Mountain Lodge

Location: Summit Mountain sits at 48°21′14″N 113°22′11″W in Glacier National Park. Access requires a hike via the Autumn Creek Trail from the Marias Pass trailhead. The primary ascent to the Continental Divide from the saddle with Little Dog Mountain is about 5 miles round trip. Parking is at the Marias Pass trailhead on the north side of U.S. Highway 2, near the railroad tracks. Parking is limited in peak season and lots can fill early. From the summit, expansive views include the Great Bear Wilderness, the Flathead Range, the Bob Marshall Wilderness, the central Montana plains, and distant peaks along the Continental Divide.

Exposed edges demand caution; hold hands with children near drop-offs.

Summit Campground restrooms; potable water at Summit Campground; Summit Mountain Lodge viewing area