It’s no secret that Montana is home to some of the best lakes in the U.S. — and we also know that nothing beats spending a day enjoying their freshwater shorelines and cool, refreshing waters. But while most tourists flock to our well-known bodies of water like Flathead Lake, the hidden gems tucked away in small towns in Montana stay quiet and peaceful. If you have yet to make the hike to Storm Lake in Montana, make this the year you go. It’s truly one of the best hidden gems in Montana!

Storm Lake is located about 20 minutes from Anaconda, in the breathtaking Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.
Vicki Gockenbach /alltrails.com
But despite its close proximity to Anaconda, many Montanans don't even know this lake is here.
The lake water is a crystal clear shade of blue, and the entire area is gorgeous.
Jocelyn Catterson / Flickr
On a particularly sunny day, you may even be able to see all the way to the bottom of the lake.
Reaching Storm Lake requires a bit of a hike, but it's worth it.
Maria Renee / alltrails.com
The trail to the lake and back is about 3.5 miles in total, and it's a fairly easy hike. However, when you're driving to the trailhead, keep in mind that the terrain is rough. If you have a high clearance vehicle, bring it.

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Once you arrive at the lake, you're welcome to keep hiking -- there are lengthy trails all over this area.
Madi Blavka / alltrails.com
That being said, you'll probably want to spend as much time here as you possibly can.
The water is extremely cold, but on a particularly warm summer day, it does make for a refreshing swim after a challenging hike.
Jocelyn Catterson / Flickr
However, no one will blame you if you stick to having a picnic on the shores or kick back with a good read and do a little lakeside lounging.
Storm Lake is definitely one of the Treasure State's most underrated gems.
Roger Davies / alltrails.com
And the best part is, if you go during the week and head out in the morning, you probably won't see another soul.

 

So, did you know about Storm Lake in Montana? Ever hiked to it? If so, what’d you think? Share your experiences with us! Is Storm Lake too far from your home for a quick day trip? Consider turning your visit into an overnight adventure by booking lodging through VRBO, which offers accommodations of all sorts.

Looking for more beautiful Montana lakes? Check out our article highlighting the best lakes in Montana.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Storm Lake In Montana

Daniella DiRienzo | November 28, 2023

Aside from Storm Lake in Montana, what are some other hidden gems in Montana?

There are tons of amazing hidden gems in Montana, including:

  • Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: While not hidden exactly, this historical site is often less visited compared to other national parks. It commemorates the Battle of Little Bighorn and offers a solemn reflection on this significant event in American history.
  • The Rimrocks: A dramatic geological feature located on the outskirts of Billings, The Rimrocks offer a peaceful escape from the city (as well as sweeping views). The cliffs rise up hundreds of feet over the Yellowstone River and they're truly spectacular.
  • Passage Falls: Nestled in the Gallatin National Forest of Montana, Passage Falls is a hidden gem accessed via a scenic trail that winds through lush alpine meadows and dense forests. The falls cascade gracefully over rocky ledges, creating a tranquil and picturesque setting for hikers who venture into this remote and pristine wilderness.

 

What are the best small towns in Montana?

There are lots of lovely small towns in Montana. Here are some of the best small towns in Montana:

  • Whitefish, Montana: Nestled near Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a popular town known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and water activities on Whitefish Lake. The charming downtown area has a vibrant atmosphere with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
  • Livingston, Montana: Despite being a small town, Livingston is known for a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and the historic Shane Lalani Center for the Arts. It's also close to the Yellowstone River, providing opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities.
  • Red Lodge, Montana: This town is located at the gateway to the Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone National Park – its location isn’t the only thing that makes Red Lodge one of the best small towns in Montana, though. The town also has a charming downtown area with historic buildings, and with hiking, skiing, and scenic drives, it’s a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.

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Storm Lake, Anaconda, MT 59711, USA