Walton Goat Lick and Sheep Creek Bridge

We will be crossing the Sheep Creek Bridge in a moment, with a view across the valley of the area known as the Walton Goat Lick.  Mountain goats prefer the rocky cliffs at higher elevations, yet descend each spring from the high country to the natural mineral licks along the Middle Fork of the Flathead River.  The goats need the salts and minerals found in these eroding banks, visible [to the northeast] across the river from the train.

Once in a while, mountain goats can be spotted on the mountainside across the river above the highway in the rocks and open green areas.  They are also regular visitors to the cliffs below the highway.  If the mountain goats are there, they will be far enough away to appear as small grayish-white “cotton balls.”

These goats were featured in the Great Northern Railway’s logo and advertising beginning in 1928.