Hidden Montana—The Trail System

Despite the fact that Island Park has many recreational opportunities surrounding aquatic activities, those that are immediately accessible by road tend to receive much higher traffic—often forcing an outdoorsman to choose between convenience of access and quality of the experience.  In the chain of lakes slightly to the north of Island Park, sometimes referred to as the Jewels of Montana, there are six lakes that sit deep within a geological fault line in a uniquely isolated aquatic ecosystem.  

Three of the six lakes are accessible by road with varying degrees of road quality, while the other three require a bit more effort to access.  There is a trail that runs from the North end of the Elk Lake road, along Hidden Lake, then up the canyon past both Goose and Otter Lakes, to its terminus at the south edge of Cliff Lake.  Additionally, the trail picks up again at the north end of Cliff Lake and terminates again at Wade Lake.  

Hidden Lake

Proceed past Elk Lake until you reach the end of the two-track road.  This road is somewhat rough and four-wheel drive and a high clearance vehicle are highly recommended.  At the end of the road, prepare for a short hike (roughly 700 yards) through a slot canyon to the very tip of Hidden Lake.  Here, you can launch a canoe or float tube if you packed one in, otherwise, the trail traces the west edge of the lake, providing for ample fishing opportunity.  At the northern end of the lake, there is an excellent site for a shore lunch, as well as an excellent point to prepare for the next portion of the journey.  This lake is an excellent fishery, with phenomenal fly fishing for wild cutthroat.  Primarily a streamer fishery, dark brown and purple bugger and leech patterns are excellent, especially when fished with a red or yellow Simi-seal micro leech or other bead-head nymph as a dropper.  Although the south end of the lake is relatively shallow.  This lake provides for excellent wildlife viewing for both mammals and waterfowl and, when paired with the spectacular geological views, makes for some of the best nature photography and exploring in the area.  Utilize caution, however, as there is a healthy grizzly population in the area and this is one of the more remote lakes in the region.

Goose Lake

            From the northwest end of Hidden Lake, follow the trail up the face to the crest of the ridgeline.  It’s a fairly easy trail to follow, dropping through several draws before finally settling into the floor of the valley about three-quarters of a mile from the start of the hike.  This is a relatively scenic hike, taking you through some very interesting geology with the potential to see various species of wildlife.  Once you arrive at the lake, you’ll find it’s relatively small—only a few acres in size—and sheltered beneath sheer walls of stone.  Also relatively shallow, this lake is a spectacular sight fishery, allowing anglers to target individual fish with a well-placed fly or spinner.  Due to the clear water and shallow nature of the lake, small streamer patterns, dry flies, and terrestrial patterns work well all season long—however, the fish are somewhat spooky and benefit from a stealthy approach.  This is a wonderful place to sit and picnic with the added bonus of being able to view large amounts of native wildlife with little-to-no traffic, while still being relatively easy to access. 

Otter Lake

            Another half-mile up the trail from Goose Lake, you’ll approach the least known and least utilized lake on the chain.  Otter lake is a very small and shallow lake that hosts some very entertaining dry fly fishing as well as some of the best views in the area.  This is the most remote lake on the chain and odds are good that your visit will be undisturbed by others.  An excellent turn around point for those looking to see he bottom portion of the chain in one day, this also facilitates excellent photography, wildlife viewing, and—in the early summer—some excellent wildflower viewing.  Furthermore, this is about one-third of the way between Hidden Lake and the south end of Cliff Lake.  Because this lake receives so little pressure, it is an excellent location to plan a hike and family picnic in the backcountry—just don’t forget to pack the fly rod.

The Trail

            The aforementioned trail runs from Hidden Lake through Goose and Otter, before ending up at Cliff Lake.  Just a couple miles long, this trail facilitates excellent wildlife experiences and panoramic views, while taking you through multiple terrain and environ types.  If you can arrange a pick-up or drop-off at one of the two trailheads, this is one of the best ways to experience the beauty and variety that Island Park has to offer, while getting you away from the other crowds and providing a unique day trip that many are simply unaware of.  As with any backcountry travel, exercise caution with regards to wildlife and weather conditions, back bear spray, and have a solid plan for your journey.  Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring a camera and a fishing rod or two to capture the memories you’re sure to make along the way.

Big Thank you to Mike Jennings for contributing this information.