From Columbia Falls, head East on U.S. Highway 2 past the town of Hungry Horse and turn right to Martin City. Keep driving along the East side of the Hungry Horse Reservoir until the pavement ends (roughly 2miles), then continue 13 more miles until a sign for “Spotted Bear 39” and “Firefighter L.O. 4” appear. You will then make a sharp left turn and continue a half-mile to the trailhead at the end of the road (parking is available before and after the bridge).

There can be fallen trees on the trail but it's fairly easy to follow with not a ton of switchbacks, but mainly just straight-ahead climbing/ hiking. If there is snow, the spine can be a bit slow going and it can be windy, so plan accordingly with layers and gear. The view is amazing and well worth the climb, so bring a camera and enjoy a mini-picnic up at the top before you start back down the same way.