Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
1,800.00 ft (548.64 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
5.00 mi (8.05 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Lone Lake lies close to the border between Idaho and Montana in the pristine northern portion of the Bitterroot Mountains. The trailhead is shared with the Stevens Lake Trailhead (to the left), so make sure to go to the right when starting the hike. The trail starts in the trees but opens up to the sweeping Willow Creek valley that offers spectacular viws of Willow Peak. There is a cascading waterfall before you start the final ascent to the lake that feeds into Willow Creek

The lake is as blue and clean as any you'll find in the Bitterroots, and towering behind it is the majestic Stevens Peak. This area contains black bears, moose, deer, elk, fox, skunk, and a variety of other animals. There are logging operations in the area, so don't be surprised if you hear a lot of saws or see vehicles near the start of your hike.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful views. Awesome lake.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

3,933.00 ft (1,198.78 m)

Highest point

5,633.00 ft (1,716.94 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Waterfalls
Wildlife

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Missoula + Bitterroot Mountains, Montana

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