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Photo by Jay Mantri on Unsplash
EasyGround

Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail

Heart Butte, Montana · Flathead County · Flathead National Forest · 173

Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail is a easy hiking trail near Heart Butte in Flathead County, Montana.. The surface is ground. Managed by Flathead National Forest. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

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47.98332, -113.18857
Open in OpenStreetMap
5-Day Forecast

Weather at Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail

Live forecast for the trailhead. Use it to pack and time your hike.

Avg High74°F
Avg Low48°F
Peak Rain Chance0%
Humidity31%
UV (avg)7
Air Quality254 · Very Unhealthy
Today
Partly Cloudy
63°/40°
🌬 8mph
6:13 AM9:04 PM
Wed
🌤
Mostly Clear
69°/47°
🌬 10mph
6:14 AM9:02 PM
Thu
☁️
Overcast
78°/52°
🌬 11mph
6:16 AM9:01 PM
Fri
☀️
Clear
81°/51°
🌬 15mph
6:17 AM8:59 PM
Sat
☁️
Overcast
79°/52°
🌬 15mph
6:18 AM8:57 PM

Forecast data © Open-Meteo. Refreshed every 6 hours. Always check the most recent forecast before heading out.

About Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail

Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail is a easy hiking trail near Heart Butte in Flathead County, Montana.. The surface is ground. Managed by Flathead National Forest. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.

What “Easy” Means

Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.

What to Pack & Wear

Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.
  • 🌡
    Layers for swings
    Daily temp range is wide (48°F low → 74°F high). Pack layers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection (UV 7)
    SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Trail Safety in Montana

Trail conditions in Montana change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:

  • Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
  • Tell someone your plan and expected return time
  • Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
  • Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail?

Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.

Can I ride a bike on Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail?

No — this trail is closed to bicycles.

Are horses allowed on Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail?

Yes — horseback riding is permitted (designated equestrian route).

What is the trail surface on Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail?

The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.

When is the best time to hike Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail?

Montana has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.

Who manages Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail?

Dolly Varden Pentagon Trail is managed by Flathead National Forest. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.