Goat Lick Overlook
Essex, MT
A viewpoint on US-2 above a mineral bank where mountain goats come to lick salt, most often in early summer.
Goat Lick Overlook is a viewpoint on US Highway 2 on the southern edge of Glacier National Park in Montana, about two miles (roughly 3 km) southeast of the Walton Ranger Station, past Essex and before Marias Pass. From here you look down on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River, where mountain goats descend from the high country to lick mineral salt from the riverbank.
The animals are never guaranteed. According to Visit Montana they appear most often from April to August, and in late June and July sometimes in groups of dozens. They are most active at dawn and dusk. Look under the road as well, because the goats occasionally seek shade there.
A short paved path leads from the parking area to an observation platform above the river. Keep at least 23 m (75 feet) away from the animals, as mountain goats can lash out with their horns. Check fees and access with the national park before you go.
- Nearest town
- Essex, MT
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 48.2570, -113.5900
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually June–September. Still fine, with some compromises, in May. Cold, short days in November–March. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Devil Creek CampgroundCampsite6 mi from Goat Lick OverlookTentsCaravansDrinking water
- Summit CampgroundCampsite12 mi from Goat Lick Overlook · 17 pitchesTentsCaravansDrinking waterToilets
- Peter's Creek CampgroundCampsite14 mi from Goat Lick OverlookFree
- Lost Johnny Point CampgroundCampsite18 mi from Goat Lick OverlookDrinking waterToilets
- Lost Johnny CampgroundCampsite18 mi from Goat Lick OverlookDrinking waterToilets
- Mountain Meadow RV Park & CabinsMotorhome stopover23 mi from Goat Lick OverlookMotorhomes
All campsites in Montana · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Goat Lick Overlook?
Goat Lick Overlook is in Essex, MT, at GPS 48.2570, -113.5900. It is about 21 mi from East Glacier Park.
Can you camp near Goat Lick Overlook?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Devil Creek Campground, about 6 mi away; within 25 mi there are 27 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Goat Lick Overlook?
Goat Lick Overlook is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Glacier’s quiet corners: North Fork and Two Medicine.
What is there to see near Goat Lick Overlook?
Places worth a stop nearby: Two Medicine Lake (19 mi), Wayfarers State Park (27 mi), Logan Pass – Going-to-the-Sun Road (31 mi) and Museum of the Plains Indian (33 mi).
When is the best time to visit Goat Lick Overlook?
The most pleasant months are usually June–September. Still fine, with some compromises, in May. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)