I went over the map and found what looked like some obscure lakes in promising surroundings based purely on topography and gut feel. Amber McDaniel To Flathead and Swan Valley locals, Turquoise Lake is regarded as an all-time favorite spot, and for good reason. U.S. Wilderness Areas do not allow motorized or mechanized vehicles, including bicycles. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: If you live in the Flathead or Swan Valley, this spot might be a local favorite -- but plenty of Montanans have never even heard of it. The trail enters the Holy Cross Wilderness Area soon after intersecting with the Colorado Trail. Allow us to help, beginning with Turquoise Lake. Turquoise Lake is the last of six gorgeous lakes on this stunning six mile hike (one way) based in Montana's Swan Valley. Location: Seeley Lake Miles/Difficulty: 12 miles/Strenuous Leaders: Lee Boman and Silke Jauck. Wapiti Creek Trail Trail, 1¼ miles west; Little Wapiti Creek Trail Trail, 1½ miles southeast; Sunlight Basin Depression, 2 miles south; Wapiti Ranch Station 2½ miles north; Explore Your World. It's a great trail to acclimatize on due to the minimal elevation gain and nice climbs. A relatively easy 12.8 mile hike from the trail head and Many Glacier Hotel parking lot to the very end of the lake. A couple miles in there are a series of switchbacks but that is the most difficult part. Turn west onto Kraft Creek Road at mile marker 37 (just south of Condon). After reaching these heights, you'll begin your descent to the lake, should you choose to hike this far. It's also close to the smaller Lace Lake, where the fishing is rumored to be even better. Turquoise Lake and the small lakes around it are a treat to the eyes. The wilderness can be reached by trail from surrounding roads. The Mission Mountains Wilderness is located in the U.S. state of Montana. The USGS (U.S. Geological Survey) publishes a set of the most commonly used topographic maps of the U.S. called US Topo that are separated into rectangular quadrants that are printed at 22.75"x29" or larger. The total hiking distance is about 6 miles with an elevation gain of 1,600 feet. Here are a handful of trail tips for the aspiring Western Montana hiker: ... Turquoise Lake. 0 Star This. Endless bear grass and rocks on the hike – Carrie K Driving Directions from Nearest Town or Landmark The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until October. Primary access is via Montana highway 83 and logging roads to the east, but there are several western routes leading from the Confederated Salish and… Wilderness Area in Flathead National Forest, MT. The Timberline Lake Trail then heads up along Lake Fork Creek where it follows the creek the entire way up to Timberline Lake. The scenery along the way is real nice. This trail is not meant for beginners -- it's lengthy, and you'll face an elevation gain of about 1,500 feet. Turquoise Lake and the small lakes around it are a treat to the eyes. Description This is usually done as an out and back. Outside St. Regis, Montana are two beautiful lakes that are worth taking the time to explore. The Highline Trail. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Owing to a history of heavy use, the Forest Service prohibits camping within a … Give the gift of adventure. The trailhead to Glacier Lake also serves as the trailhead for … Fishing Climbing … PLACE. This is a hike you'll want to try when you're accustomed to tougher terrain. Spooky cemeteries, off-the-beaten-path breweries, and remote restaurants are just some of the hidden gem travel destinations Montana has to offer. Travel destinations Montana has to offer the Flathead National Forest about 6 miles with an elevation of 9104.. 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