Kelly Island sits just outside the Missoula city limits in the Rocky Mountains of western Montana. This 648-acre undeveloped island is actually made up of one large island and eight smaller islands. It is home a mixture of cottonwood trees, ponderosa pine forests and large meadows and the area is a natural sanctuary to many species of birds and other wildlife.
There is day-use area is near the confluence of the Bitterroot River and the Clark Fork River. The river channel constantly changes, allowing different habitats for wildlife and the site is popular for day hikes, dog walking and wildlife watching.
There are three public access sites exist to enter this incredible area; on 7th Street, Mullan Road and Spurgin Road. The Spurgin Road site (displayed here) has been recently upgraded with paved roads, defined parking, a boat launch, and restrooms. Take a walk, bike or drive Spurgin Road west of Reserve Street and follow the signs. You will not be disappointed!
The Most Remote Lake In Montana Is Also The Most Peaceful
Kintla Lake in Glacier National Park is one of Montana's most remote and beautiful lakes, ideal for experienced adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty.
To say Montana has a lot of lakes would be a bit of an understatement, as there are at least 3,223 named lakes and reservoirs here (and probably many more we aren't aware of). So, while it's impossible to truly know which of our lakes is the most remote, Kintla Lake is perhaps the most remote lake in Montana we're aware of at this particular time. After all, the adjacent campground is Montana's most remote-front country campground, and only the most experienced outdoor adventurers should attempt to explore it.
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That being said, if you do make it out to this lake, you'll fall in love right away. This part of the state remains quiet, peaceful, and largely unspoiled ... and that's just how we like it.
Kintla Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Montana and is located in the uppermost northwest section of Glacier National Park.
This section is known as the North Fork and is accessed via one of Montana’s oldest roads. The lake and campground itself are around 40 miles from the West entrance and the Canadian border.
Getting here by car isn't easy, even in the summertime—the drive is very slow and bumpy, consisting of a lot of dirt roads.
The scenery, however, is remarkable. Also, you'll get to pass through Polebridge, so you can stop at the Polebridge Mercantile and stock up on snacks. Note that the store is open seasonally so check its website for days and hours.
Kintla Lake is about eight miles long, making it the fourth-largest lake in the park.
Kintla Lake Campground sits right on the lake, and since it's so remote, it's rarely full. Just be prepared to bring everything you'll need if you plan to camp, as amenities are extremely limited.
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If you canoe or kayak, you'll absolutely love this lake.
There's something about being far from civilization that makes you appreciate this natural beauty even more. You'll be happy with the forced digital detox.
Kintla Lake, one of the most pristine natural lakes in Montana, is surrounded by towering mountains, giving it an even more secluded appearance.
This is a little piece of heaven on Earth. If you go, make sure to respect our beautiful land and leave no trace.
Lake Kintla is one of the clearest lakes in Montana, making it even more worth visiting. Have you made the trip to the most remote lake in Montana? If you have, we'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments. And, if you have any tips or tricks for making a visit fantastic, please share. I'd love to read about them! And, as always, be sure you're well-prepared for any outdoor excursion. Purchasing good quality gear from a trusted outfitter is always a good idea.
The bodies of water in Montana offer all sorts of ways to have fun. For some, rafting and tubing are the best ways to enjoy a day out on the state's waterways. For others, there's nothing more exciting than spending the day fishing surrounded by nothing but the breeze. From the Rockies to the small, lesser-known tranquil streams, Montana offers anglers an unparalleled day outside. There are certainly many to choose from, but one of the best fishing spots in Montana is Fairy Lake, located about an hour from Bozeman.
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Fairy Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the state, but it's often overlooked by even the most avid outdoor lovers. You'll find it about one hour north of Bozeman, just off Highway 86 and Bridger Canyon Road.
To make the trip even better, consider seeing the lake from above by taking one of the of the hikes in the area. The 1.2-mile main lake loop is lush and green in the summer and offers gorgeous views year-round.
If you love fishing or hunting in Montana, you'll love the new camo collection from our friends at Wear Your Roots and Realtree. These cozy t-shirts and sweatshirts are the perfect complement to life outdoors — and we always love having a hoodie with us for those chilly mornings and evenings spent waiting for the fish to bite. Use code Montana for 10% off your purchase.
Fairy Lake is undoubtedly one of the best fishing spots in Montana. When you visit, remember that motorized boats are not allowed but you're welcome to launch a canoe or kayak.
Have you visited Fairy Lake? If you have any tips for visiting, we'd love to hear them in the comments. And, if you'd like to make your trip into a long weekend, consider staying at a centrally located vacation rental.
