Turqouise Lake

Turquoise Lake is one of the most exceptional and beautiful spots in Montana – and that’s saying something. It’s also a haul to get there, so carbo-load in the morning and plan to hit the trail early. The lake fills a steep alpine valley spilling out of the Mission Mountains; it’s surreal blue waters are due to suspended silt from melting glaciers, one of which hugs the mountain above the lake. The hike to the lake is 6 miles each way and climbs about 2,000 vertical feet. This area is federally protected wilderness, so you can only hike in past the trailhead. It’s also grizzly country, so be fully versed in safe hiking and camping protocol.