Top 7 Lakes in the Mission Range

Many lakes in the Mission Range are popular hiking destinations. Piper Lake is considered a wonderful destination with a walk of moderate difficulty. Cold Lake is another popular spot, with trail #121 leading to Lower Cold Lake for panoramic views, and Upper Cold Lake for those seeking further exploration. Turquoise Lake and Glacier Lake are also highly regarded for their stunning scenery, though they involve strenuous hikes with significant elevation gain.

Yes, Lake Dinah is easily accessible and suitable for families, surrounded by pine trees where canoes are occasionally seen. Crystal Lake also features a sandy beach with a gradual drop-off, making it ideal for swimming or soaking feet, which can be great for families.

The best time to visit the Mission Range lakes is generally between July 1 and October 1. Earlier in the season, travel can be difficult due to lingering snow and high stream levels.

The Mission Range is known for its alpine lakes, high mountain cirques, and diverse forest ecosystems. You'll encounter old-growth Engelmann spruce and Douglas fir forests, huckleberry shrubs, and areas of recovering burn, which offer unobstructed views. Lakes like Turquoise Lake are famous for their vibrant colors, while others like Crystal Lake have sandy beaches. Many lakes are nestled within rugged mountainous terrain, offering dramatic views.

Besides hiking to the lakes, the Mission Range offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous mountain biking trails, such as the 'Hot Sauce and Hello Kitty Loop' or 'Ewok and Fenceline Loop', which you can explore further in the MTB Trails in the Mission Range guide. There are also road cycling routes like the 'Bitterroot Trail' detailed in the Road Cycling Routes in the Mission Range guide, and running trails like 'The M Trail on Mount Sentinel loop' found in the Running Trails in the Mission Range guide.

Many high alpine lakes in the Mission Mountains, including those in the Mission Range, offer good fishing for cutthroat trout. Specific regulations and permits may apply, especially within tribal lands.

Access to some areas, particularly those within the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal lands, may require a permit. Trails in the Mission Mountains are generally rugged and can be steep. It's always advisable to check local regulations before your visit.

While specific crowd levels vary, lakes like the 'Mystery Lakes' are noted for offering a beautiful, solitary wilderness experience, though they are strenuous to access. If you're looking for solitude, exploring less-trafficked trails or visiting during off-peak times (outside of July-October) might help.

Crystal Lake is particularly noted for having a sandy beach with a gradual drop-off, making it ideal for swimming or soaking your feet. While other lakes might be swimmable, Crystal Lake is specifically highlighted for this feature.

Trails in the Mission Mountains are generally rugged and can be steep, often better suited for hiking than horseback riding. Long loop backpacking is not typically possible due to trails not interconnecting. For example, the hike to Turquoise Lake involves a significant elevation gain of nearly 2,500 feet over six miles, making it strenuous.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning scenery and rewarding recreational opportunities. The vibrant colors of lakes like Turquoise Lake, the panoramic views from Cold Lake, and the enchanting atmosphere of Heart Lake are often highlighted. The sense of wilderness and the diverse natural landscapes, from alpine cirques to old-growth forests, are also highly appreciated.

Yes, it is possible to visit multiple lakes on a longer hike. For instance, Glacier Lake can often be visited in conjunction with Turquoise Lake via a longer trek. However, be aware that long loop backpacking is not typically feasible in the Mission Mountains due to the trail network.