A deep granite canyon located south of Missoula. The climbing is a mix of sport and traditional, with routes following prominent crack systems and steep faces. The First Buttress is the most popular area, offering a high concentration of quality routes across a wide range of grades.
Access warning: Only public access on USFS land on the south side of Kootenai Creek. No deeded easement for public access via Kootenai Creek trailhead. Closed areas include First Buttress, Second Buttress, Identity Wall, Sick Bay, Shuffle Buttress, Practice Rock, Spiderhang Buttress, and adjacent rock outcrops on the north side of the canyon. Failure to follow closures may lead to restricted or complete loss of access. Pack out human and pet waste.
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Stevensville, 10 miles
- Land manager: Bitterroot National Forest (USFS)
- Access fee: Free
- Season: May to October
- Key routes / problems: Kootenai Crack (5.8, Trad), The Shield (5.10b, Sport), First Buttress Direct (5.11a, Sport) Confirm current access, seasonal closures, raptor restrictions, and avalanche conditions before you climb. Climbing is inherently dangerous—this guide is informational, not instruction.