Hiking around Flathead Lake Montana

Hiking around Flathead Lake Montana. Hiking Trails and Public Access to Flathead National Forest

Flathead National Forest websites: http://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/flathead/recreation and http://www.fs.usda.gov/flathead

The Flathead National Forest contains 2.4 million acres of public lands home to many species of wildlife. There are numerous lakes, rivers, and streams to fish or otherwise enjoy as well as miles and miles of hiking trails. Untouched land provides a premiere destination for folks looking to experience the American West.

There are recreational activities abound in the Flathead National Forest including three wilderness areas, two ski areas, mountain ranges, lakes, rivers, and campgrounds.

Hiking Trails In The Flathead National Forest

Flathead National Forest’s Jewel Basin is a unique 15,000 acre hiking area maintained exclusively for hiking and camping. High Mountain Lake fishing is synonymous with the Jewel Basin Hiking Area. Over 20 lakes provide fishing opportunities to satisfy any type of angler or backpacker. Try “bushwhacking” into some of the more remote lakes or simply take a leisurely hike to Birch Lake. Of course, with every jewel comes the risk of loving it to death. The Jewel Basin receives heavy use due to its close proximity to Kalispell and the valley. The Camp Misery parking lot can be very crowded on blue bird days. So be warned, solitude may be hard to find and expect to share the trail with other users. We encourage you to practice “leave No Trace” principals and be courteous to other Forest users and the resource. Treat this beautiful area special, like wilderness, as it as such.