Cold Lakes

Hike Name: Cold Lakes Location: west MT Length: 4.5 Submitted by: Richard Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more Montana trail reviews Montana national parks Montana state parks
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Description
This is maybe the best "easy" day hike I've ever done, perfect for a family and wonderful for everyone. The trail is well established (to lower lake) and passes through forest and meadows, up a gentle grade for about 1.5 miles to Lower Cold Lake, a medium sized lake in a spectacular apline basin. Though the trees go right up to the water, there are a few places where you have room for a back-cast with your fly rod. Or pack in an inflatable boat or tube. There's a faint trail around the north side of the lower lake, poorly maintained and usually blocked by downed trees that must be climbed over, that leads to a further gentle climb to the upper lake, larger and even more breathtaking. Perhaps 800 feet elevation gain from the trailhead to the upper lake. Bring binoculars; you have an excellent chance of seeing eagles, mountain goats, and deer. On the way down you'll get grand views of the valley and the Swan Range on the other side. Milage given above is out-and-back total. Be aware that camping (and in some places hiking) is prohibited within a half-mile or so of the lower lake to allow for regeneration damaged by overuse. And take the usual precautions for grizzlies.

Directions to Hike
The trail is in the Mission Mountains, one of the wildest and least trafficked ranges in Montana. From Highway 83 about 23 miles south of Swan Lake, turn east onto Cold Creek Rd 903. After 3 miles turn right on forest road (FR) 9568, then left on FR 9599. The drive on Hwy 83 between the Swan Range and Mission Mountains (in either direction) is one of the most beautiful in Montana.

Contact Information
Swan Valley Ranger District in Seely Lake.

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