The Camas Lake Trail Is A Perfectly Refreshing Summer Hike In Montana

We've enjoyed a nice, warm start to our summer here in the Treasure State, which is just the way we like them. That also means that even our hiking trails that stay the snowiest are enjoying an early melt. The Camas Lake Trail usually has snow well into June, but this year, it's looking nice and inviting.

The Camas Lake Trail is located in the Bitterroot Valley, not far from the little city of Hamilton.

There are few lakes in the Bitterroot Mountain Range as accessible as Camas Lake -- most require at least eight miles of hiking to reach.

The Camas Lake Trail is 5.6 miles out-and-back, meaning it takes half the time and effort to reach the shores as most of the other lake trails in the area.

And while it's not a short hike, it involves a gradual, moderate climb, so it's not too challenging for even a beginner to attempt.

In the early weeks of summer, you'll often find meadows of wildflowers that pop up as soon as the snow melts.

This area truly shows off the diverse beauty of our state.

The beginning of the trail winds around the mountain before entering a canyon in a shaded wood, then crossing Camas Creek on a footbridge.

Then, before you know it, you'll be at Camas Lake.

The lake is so crystal clear, you'll probably spot some trout swimming and jumping in the water.

We highly recommend sticking around for awhile and enjoying a picnic as you take in the views.

This trail is accessible from early May until the end of September, but July and August seem to be its peak months.

Of course, that does mean you'll be sharing the trail with others, so you'll want to start early in the day if you prefer to hike alone.

The Camas Lake Trail is one of the most enjoyable hikes in the entire Bitterroot range.

If you'll be in the area before summer's end, check it out and see for yourself.

To learn more about the hike, visit its page on AllTrails.

Have you ever hiked the Camas Lake Trail? Do you have a favorite summer hike in Montana? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below, then check out our previous article for more Treasure State trails in to check out this season.