Boulder Lake Loop

What’s better than one lakeshore stroll? Two? Well, the Boulder Lake Loop exceeds all expectations, offering three crystalline lakes in one circuit hike. Explore a diversity of terrains abundant with flora and fauna while getting your heart rate up. Boasting wonderful views of the Bitterroot Mountains, you’ll want to bring your camera as the scenery is quite photogenic. As with all sorts of exploration in the area, wildlife encounters are a possibility, so consider bringing a can of bear spray and keep your distance if you do have a run-in.

Embark on your hike from the Louie Lake Trailhead. Setting out from here, you will be led south along the Louie Lake Trail. Soon after your departure, you will confront several junctions, maintain on the Louis Lake Trail, and you will eventually reach the shoreline of the glittering lake framed by the ridges of Jughandle Mountain. From here, you will be diverted east up to the pass beneath Twin Peaks before rerouting northeast down to Boulder Lake. Here, veer left onto the Boulder Lake Trail, tracing the lakeshore.

Admire the scene of Boulder Mountain towering above, then continue west. After some hiking, you will reach Boulder Meadows Reservoir. Wander along the shoreline, and you will ultimately be delivered back to the trailhead and parking lot.