Deadman Ridge Snowshoe Hike and Geology Field Trip

Saturday, February 17, 2007

• Photo -- Big Baldy, the highest peak in the Little Belt Mountains, is the snow-covered peak in the center of the photo.  The view is from Kings Hill Pass where the snowshoe hike starts.  Big Baldy is a large igneous intrusion with the shape of a sand dollar--flat bottom and rounded top.  Big Baldy and many other laccoliths can be seen from Deadman Ridge.  Most of the high peaks in the Little Belt Mountains are laccoliths.
  
  
• Time and Location -- Meet at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 17, 2007 at King's Hill Pass.  This pass is the highest point between Great Falls and White Sulphur Springs on U.S. 89 and is above the Showdown Ski Area.
  
  
• The Snowshoe Hike -- This is primarily a snowshoe hike, but there will be opportunities to comment on the spectacular scenery and its geological origins.  The snowshoe hike leaves Kings Hill Pass on the trail shown in the photo to the right.  There is a very gentle climb to the top of Deadman Ridge.  The trail follows the ridge crest for about 3 miles and then descends into Deadman Gulch--a drop of 1500 feet.  The trail distance is about 4½ miles.



• Snowshoes will be provided by the trip leaders.  However, participants need to bring their own ski poles.  Irrespective of snow conditions elsewhere in the Little Belt Mountains, this route will have adequate snow cover for snowshoeing.



• Field Trip Leaders -- David Baker, Monarch, and Tina Lanier, Neihart, will lead the hike.



• Registration and Cost -- There is no charge for the field trip; however, prior registration is required. The group size is limited. To register, call Dave Baker at (406) 236-5934 or Tina at (406) 236-5511 (workdays) or fill out our on-line registration form.

The Showdown Ski Area can be seen from Deadman Ridge.

Snowshoe hikers enjoying the sun and scenery on February 11, 2006.

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