Hoadley Reef and Twin Peaks Backpack

Boldly go where few have set foot . . . this 7-day/6-night guided backpacking trip travels into a remote alpine area, allowing us to spend several days exploring up high in the heart of Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness.  With three layover days, this backpack is designed to be both physically challenging while still providing the option to take a day or two off from hiking and simply enjoy the surroundings. It also includes a food drop half way through the trip, making the backpack weights lighter for those hard up-hill climbs.

The two centerpieces of this backpack are Hoadley Reef and Twin Peaks. The Hoadley Reef and Scarlet Mountain (8165′) tower above the basin below, reminiscent of the Chinese Wall to the north.  And the small alpine lake we will reach once traversing the top of the Reef is surrounded by the formidable giants, Twin Peaks (8744′ and 8719′).  The Peaks can be recognized from most high vantage points in the Bob, although climbing them is difficult given the long approach. Luckily, we will make our three night alpine home at the base of these giants, giving us ample time to scramble to the top of them, to relish in the dark blue waters of the small tarn, and to explore the wild basins and ridges nearby.

The route is a lollipop loop – only about 6 miles from the first and last day will be on the same trail.  Two of the four moving days will be mostly off-trail and may involve hiking on uneven terrain and scree.  There will also be short sections of exposure. While being in good physical condition is a must for this trip, know that our skilled guides will help you navigate difficult terrain and challenges along the way.  Backpack weights are usually around 35 – 40 pounds.

This area of the Bob is truly one of our favorites. We’ll travel there during one of the best times of the year to be up in Alpine – small flowers will carpet the talus as the snow recedes, and snowmelt springs will trickle down ephemeral streams. If you are looking for a wild and rugged Bob Marshall Wilderness backpack that incorporates both peak climbing and time to embrace the solitude and beauty around you, then this is the trip for you.