For the first time in 22 years, there is a new guide map for the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness and surrounding areas.

The colorful map was published in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the 1964 Wilderness Act as a joint effort among the U.S. Forest Service, the Montana Wilderness Association and Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness. 

The last map of the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, published in 1992, has been increasingly hard to find because it is out of print.

The new double-sided map is colorful and durable, with photographs and trail guide information outlining hikes of all types. Local writers and photographers provide much of the content.

“This new map is a great tool to help people enjoy the outdoors, locals and tourists alike,” said Amy Robinson, who runs the Montana Wilderness Association office in Whitefish. “The map features near-town walks for getting outdoors after work and more remote, strenuous hikes — even some for those who like to suffer. We are especially grateful to all the great contributors who helped make such a wonderful product.”

As a companion project, Clearwater Montana Properties fund a downloadable “GeoPDF” map, which allows smartphone users to find their way around using the proper phone application.

“If you like to navigate trails using your Android or IOS mobile device, the GeoPDF is offered as a free tool to enjoy the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness,” Robinson said.

The application can be found at www.avenza.com/pdf-maps and the GeoPDF can be found at  www.wildmontana.org/cabinethikes. 

The printed maps are being distributed to Forest Service ranger stations, chambers of commerce, libraries, real estate offices, outdoor and sporting goods stores and tourist services in Lincoln and Sanders counties, and Bonner County in Idaho. They can also be found at REI stores in Spokane and Missoula.

Contributor Brian Baxter distributed the new maps in Libby. 

“They are going like hotcakes,” he said. “People were asking for them even as I handed them to the librarian at the public library. Everybody that sees them seems to want one.”

Reporter Jim Mann may be reached at 758-4407 or by email at jmann@dailyinterlake.com.