It’s no secret that we enjoy having our space here in the Treasure State — social distancing is second nature to Montanans. And while being out in the great outdoors on a beautiful hiking trail is the perfect way to get away from it all, some of our more popular trails can stay perpetually packed, especially in the summertime. But if you’re an experienced hiker who can handle a lengthy trek, just head to the Turquoise Lake Trail for stunning views, wide-open spaces, and no other human in sight.

Turquoise Lake is one of Montana's true hidden gems, located on the western edge of the Mission Mountain Wilderness near the town of Condon.
Lindsey Battle / alltrails.com
If you live in the Flathead or Swan Valley, this spot might be a local favorite -- but plenty of Montanans have never even heard of it.
The Turquoise Lake Trail is quite the adventure, and it's definitely not recommended for beginners.
Dana Prestridge / alltrails.com
It's over 11 miles in its entirety, so unless you start early in the morning, you might want to make it a backpacking trip.
The trail starts off as a fairly steady nature walk, but it won't be long before you're in for quite a climb.
Kim Robb / alltrails.com
The higher you climb, the better the views get, and soon you’ll see Glacier Lake stretching out in the valley below. You'll either see or pass six beautiful alpine lakes on the trail.

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About three miles into the hike, just after a series of switchbacks, you'll pass a clearly marked fork in the trail.
Kevin Hager / alltrails.com
Continue left toward Turquoise along Turquoise Lake Trail #708.
Before you know it, you'll reach Turquoise Lake, which lives up to its name.
Scotty Livengood / alltrails.com
After reaching these heights, you'll begin your descent to the lake, should you choose to hike this far.
Turquoise Lake is famous for its trout fishing. If you do spot other people here, that's likely what they'll be doing.
Kim Robb / alltrails.com
It's also close to the smaller Lace Lake, where the fishing is rumored to be even better.
Obviously, the water is extremely cold, but it's also pretty inviting on a hot summer day.
Dana Prestridge / alltrails.com
Feel free to wade in or even go for a swim before making the hike back to the trailhead.

Would you embark on an 11.6-mile hike if it led to gorgeous views like this? What other Montana hikes would you recommend? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

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Turquoise Lake, Montana 59868, USA