Here in Montana, we know that a day spent by the lake is just as relaxing as any day spent by the ocean. And while we’ve got an abundance of lakes here that require little to no effort to reach, if you’re up for a bit of a hike, you’ll appreciate the natural beauty of Mystic Lake. Not only is it breathtaking and peaceful, but you’ll be able to see a hydroelectric dam in action. Continue reading to learn more about what makes this crystal-clear lake in Montana so special.

The Mystic Lake overlook is amazing.
Lee Gannon / alltrails.com
The lake is about 300 feet deep and over two miles long, so it stretches as far as the eye can see.
The Mystic Lake Trail is a 5.5-mile out-and-back hike, and the scenery is stunning.
Michael Woods / alltrails.com
The trailhead begins at the hydroelectric plant. Going uphill from there, the trail takes you on a climb through a forest of Aspen and Lodgepole Pine trees. This is the toughest part of the trail.
Eventually, you'll reach the top of your climb, and the lake will come into view.
Michael Woods / alltrails.com
Although parts of the hike can be a bit strenuous and challenging, most people will be able to handle the climb, even beginner hikers.

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Mystic Lake is the deepest lake in the Beartooth Mountains, and the Montana Power Company utilizes its power with the dam.
David Kelly / alltrails.com
The dam was built in the 1920s, but many Montanans still don't know it exists.
Once you get down to the lake level, you can cover an additional three miles around the shoreline if you'd like.
Kramer Schlaudt / alltrails.com
But even if you don't walk all the way around, you should definitely walk down and get an up-close-and-personal view.
The lake also happens to have a large sandy beach stretching along the shoreline, perfect for relaxing by the water.
Tracy Litke / alltrails.com
The fishing here is excellent, although you can only expect to catch fairly small rainbow trout.
Mystic Lake is one of Montnaa's most underrated treasures, and it makes for a great day hike.
Jacy Head / alltrails.com
You may want to wait until mid-June to make the trip, though -- the snow tends to stick around, at least in parts, through May.

Address: West Rosebud Lake Road, Fishtail, MT 59028

Looking for even more travel inspiration? Check out the brief YouTube video below by David Leiter of The World Travel Guy, which showcases spectacular drone footage of Montana, including a few scenes of Mystic Lake:

Have you ever hiked to Mystic Lake, an incredible crystal-clear lake in Montana? Montana’s lakes are second to none — you’ll want to visit the most beautiful Montana lakes this summer. For even more gorgeous places to explore, check out our list of the most incredible natural wonders in Montana.

 

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hidden gems in Montana

Beth C. | May 03, 2023

What are the top natural wonders to explore in Montana?

It's no secret that Montana is an outdoor explorer's dream come true. From the rugged mountain peaks to the crystal-clear lakes, rushing rivers, and gorgeous rolling hills, there are few places as naturally beautiful as Montana. For proof of this, look no further than the following list of Montana's best natural wonders:

  • Glacier National Park
  • Humbug Spires Wilderness Study Area
  • Kootenai Falls
  • Flathead Lake
  • Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
  • Makoshika State Park
  • Gates of the Mountains
  • Bob Marshall Wilderness Area
  • Quake Lake
  • Lewis & Clark Caverns

 

What is the tallest mountain in Montana?

Montana is home to many beautiful mountains. The title of the tallest mountain in Montana goes to Granite Peak, which sits 12,807 feet above sea level. Some other tall mountains in Montana include:

  • Mount Wood
  • Castle Mountain
  • Whitetail Peak
  • Silver Run Peak
  • Tempest Mountain

 

What is the most dangerous hike in Montana?

There are plenty of relatively easy trails in Montana; however, some of the Treasure State's more difficult trails can be considered deadly. One of the most dangerous hikes in Montana is the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park. The trail is between 7.6 and 14.9 miles long and requires several hours to complete, even for the most experienced hikers. What makes this trek difficult and dangerous are the narrow paths that wind over steep cliffs.

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W Rosebud Lake Rd, Fishtail, MT 59028, USA