Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
The first part of the trail follows the banks of West Rosebud Creek. There are some simply lovely swimming holes in this creek to take advantage of on a particularly hot day.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
This pipeline carries water from Mystic Lake to a hydroelectric power plant at the trailhead.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
After about one mile of hiking, the trail gets significantly tougher as it crawls up a long jumble of talus via a series of rocky switchbacks.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
Climbing up the sustained, rocky grade may have you feeling tired, but this view at the top will hopefully leave you feeling rejuvinated.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
The iconic image of Mystic Lake, dammed at one end to make possible this stunning 2-mile stretch of crystal clear water.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
From the viewpoint, you'll drop back down to the water's edge. Whether here for a day hike or to camp, there is no shortage of beautiful shoreline to explore.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
The mountain on the left hide the craggy top of Granite Peak, the Montana state highpoint. By cutting left off the Mystic Lake trail shortly, you can ascent to the tops of these mountains to the Froze-to-Death plateau to attack the peak.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
The 2-mile hike along Mystic Lake is one of the most pleasant you may ever encounter. With little elevation gain/loss and views for days, what's not to love?
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
One of the best campsites along Mystic Lake lies at the far end, just out on this forested peninsula.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
Just remember that if you choose to camp here, you won't be able to have a campfire, as all spots are within 200 feet of the shore.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
It's hardly a wonder this is widely regarded as one of the best hikes in all of Montana.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
From the far end of Mystic, you can continue on to Island Lake. For a mere extra 1.5 miles of hiking, it's well worth the detour to see these shallower, emerald green waters.
Amber McDaniel
Photo Date: 
08/29/2021
Beginning the rocky descent from the Mystic Lake viewpoint back toward the trailhead.