Located along U.S. Highway 2, approximately two miles southeast of the Walton Ranger Station, is an
exposed riverbank where mountain goats and other animals come to lick the mineral-laden cliffs. From the
parking area, a short paved path leads to an observation stand overlooking the waters of the Middle Fork of
the Flathead River. The river's current has cut deeply into the easily eroded soil in this area, creating steep
drop-offs and exposing a mass of gray clay containing minerals sought after by mountain goats and other
animals. There are several other natural mineral licks in the park, but probably none that receive as much use by
goats as this one.
The Goat Lick is an exposure of the Roosevelt Fault and is comprised of gypsum, kieserite, and sulfates.
The shift to succulent green vegetation each spring alters the goats’ mineral balance and may cause them to
seek the minerals found at the Goat Lick. Calcium, potassium, and magnesium plus lesser quantities of
sodium and phosphorus found in the lick may help replace the elements goats typically lose from their
bones during the winter. Additional explanations for visits to the lick include: an acquired taste for salts; a
need for the minerals as a digestive aid; and the high goat concentrations, which may allow for more intensive
social interactions.