Little Spar Lake Trail

Immerse yourself amongst the Cabinet Mountains and discover an idyllic alpine lake on the Little Spar Lake Trail. This stunning adventure in the Kootenai National Forest progresses through a rugged and overgrown area, so the use of the trail GPS and a sense of determination is a must. Additionally, it is wise to dress in layers as insurance against changing conditions and wear a sturdy pair of footwear to safely maneuver the uneven terrain and creek crossings. Note wildlife is abundant, so make plenty of noise as you hike a make sure one person in your party carries a can of bear spray.

Setting out from the trailhead, your adventure to Little Spar Lake follows the Upper Lake Trail into the wilderness. Climbing westward through the mountain-bound canyon, the trail will follow alongside Spar Creek, intersecting with it on several occasions. Mostly hiking beneath the closed tree canopy, the path will escape into swathes of brush, exposing you to the elements and warming you with the sunshine. As you wander through the canyon, the route will gradually curve more south as you near the lake. Once you hit the saddle, it’s a steep climb up to the shoreline.

Admire the beauty of the alpine lake and the flanking granite ridges adorned with towering pines. Take in this spectacular alpine scenery, then head back down through the canyon and back to the trailhead.