Hebgen Lake is a popular stillwater fishing, boating, and swimming spot, mainly because it's conveniently located for visitors of West Yellowstone and those who call southwest Montana home. But did you know this lake has a rather sinister history and didn't exist a century ago?
The next time you find yourself in this area, lace up your hiking boots and check out the Cabin Creek Trail. Despite the bizarre and tragic way the lake was formed, this is still a remarkably beautiful area, and the trail showcases it beautifully.
Hebgen Lake is also known as Earthquake Lake. In fact, you may only know it this way.
Technically, the lake formed in 1914, when the Montana Power Company impounded the Madison River with the concrete-core Hebgen Dam. Back then it was much, much smaller. Then, in August of 1959, a devastating 7.5-magnitude earthquake hit the area, causing a huge avalanche of rock, soil, and trees to cascade down from the south wall of the Madison River Canyon. A lot of vacationers were camping in the area for the weekend and 28 people lost their lives.
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The aftermath of the earthquake was horrible, aside from one side effect -- the tiny Hebgen Reservoir was now a full-sized lake.
This out-and-back hike is ranked as a fairly easy one on AllTrails, so if you're capable of walking nearly five miles, you'll be able to enjoy it. Parts of the trail are rather narrow and steep, so you'll want to take it slowly.
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The hike takes you through a gorgeous canyon, a broad valley, and a dense forest.
Montana has had a few substantial earthquakes since that fateful day in 1959, but nothing registering a 7.5, and nothing that changed the entire landscape like this one did. Still, Hebgen is a beautiful lake, and we're lucky we get to enjoy it.
There is something about the fall in Montana that makes you want to spend all of your time outdoors. It could be the cooler weather, the dread of the upcoming snowy weather, or the vibrant fall foliage that transforms our great state. If you are like me, there is no better time to head out on a hike than in the autumn months, and Star Peak Lookout Trail is one that you may want to consider. This Montana trail is a bit challenging and nearly 9 miles long, but the views are stunning and when the autumn colors are at their peak, you’ll feel like you are walking through a fall foliage wonderland — it’s pure perfection.
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The Star Peak Lookout Trail is located in the Kootenai National Forest, just a short drive from Noxon. You’ll find the trailhead near the Big Eddy Campground, along the Clark Fork River.
The Star Peak Lookout Trail deserves a spot on your bucket list ... but it’s not for beginning hikers. This hike is difficult with some steep and challenging climbs. You’ll want proper equipment and lots of endurance to tackle this trail.
And when I say there are some strenuous climbs, I mean it. This is an out-and-back trail that is just shy of nine miles. Throughout this trail, you will climb approximately 4,000 feet in elevation. The first half of this trail is a fairly steady climb. Make sure to take plenty of breaks to give your calves the rest they desperately need and deserve.
The second half of this adventure eases up slightly but it’s still a challenge as you’ll be quite tired from the first half of the hike. However, I recommend you don’t focus as much on the effort required to complete this hike but rather on the scenery surrounding you. You will capture beautiful views of both the Clark Fork River and Bull Lake along your way. And even just the mountain landscapes are enough to stop you in your tracks. You will certainly be trekking through beautiful country.
As you climb, you’ll make your way up to Star Peak Lookout. This is actually a unique destination as this was the first forest lookout tower in the area. You’ll not only enjoy the lookout tower at the top of your climb, but you'll spot an old stone cabin that was built in 1910. The Star Peak Lookout is on the National Historic Lookout Register.
The hike to the lookout is beautiful all year long, although, it is best during the summer and early fall months. When you tackle this trail in the fall, and when the colors are at their peak, you’ll feel like you are walking through a fall foliage wonderland. It’s a gorgeous escape from the worries of reality.
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As you hike to Star Peak Lookout, make sure you pay attention to the weather as it isn’t uncommon to encounter snow as you climb. Keep an eye out for wildlife as well and always be prepared for any type of animal encounters. You can bring your favorite furry friend with you on this adventure but he or she must be kept on a leash at all times.
Star Peak Lookout is magnificent but tiring. It’s a hike that will challenge you in more ways than one. But, Mother Nature truly outdid herself here — the views and vibrant colors are unforgettable.
Have you ever hiked to Star Peak Lookout in Montana? What was your experience like? Let me know! To learn more about this trail and to read about other hikers’ experiences, visit AllTrails.
Of course, if you want a little easier fall foliage trail in Montana, there are many to consider. Here are just a few other Montana trails you may want to explore during this magical time of the year.
The Breathtaking Small Town State Park in Montana That We Can’t Stop Thinking About
Tongue River Reservoir is a small town state park in Montana worth exploring. This 12-mile-long reservoir is situated along the open prairies of southeastern Montana.
Montana really does pack a punch when it comes to undisturbed, sprawling pockets of nature. We're lucky to have such an incredible array of opportunities when it comes to being outside and enjoying the space as it was intended by good ol' Mother Earth.
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One such place that I cannot stop thinking about is Tongue River Reservoir State Park. Located near the town of Decker in southeastern Montana, this park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in water-based recreation. Decker, with a population of just over 100 residents, is quite small when you think about it. This just means that this state park likely won't be overcrowded when you visit!
Tongue River Reservoir State Park is situated about 10 miles northwest of the Montana-Wyoming border, near the small town of Decker. The park is accessible by car and is about 25 miles from Sheridan, Wyoming, and roughly 100 miles from Billings, Montana. The park’s remoteness offers a peaceful escape, with wide-open skies and scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
The park encompasses more than 12 miles of shoreline around the Tongue River Reservoir, a 12-mile-long reservoir formed by the Tongue River Dam. It spans approximately 642 acres, offering visitors plenty of space to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of southeastern Montana.
The reservoir is surrounded by rolling hills, prairie grasslands, and the Big Horn Mountains in the distance. The park’s main draw is its water activities but it also offers wildlife viewing, fishing, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
The reservoir's expansive size makes it perfect for a variety of boating activities. Whether you’re using a motorboat, pontoon boat, or jet ski, there are several boat ramps around the park for convenient water access.
Fishing is another major draw at the reservoir, attracting anglers from all over. Common catches include walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, crappie, perch, and catfish. During the winter months, ice fishing is a popular activity as well.
While there are no designated swimming beaches, many visitors still enjoy cooling off in the clear waters of the reservoir. This is especially popular during the warmer summer months when the weather is perfect for a refreshing dip.
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For wildlife enthusiasts, the park is a great spot for wildlife viewing. Visitors might spot deer, antelope, and a variety of birds such as waterfowl and raptors like hawks and eagles. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding in the spring and fall seasons.
Camping at Tongue River Reservoir offers over 80 campsites, catering to both tent and RV campers. Some sites are located right on the water, providing stunning views and easy access to the reservoir. The campground offers basic amenities, including drinking water, vault toilets, and a fish cleaning station, though it lacks electric hookups, making it ideal for a rustic experience.
Tongue River Reservoir State Park experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach into the 80s and 90s°F (around 27-35°C), making it perfect for swimming and boating. However, be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.
Winters can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, but this is the best time for ice fishing enthusiasts. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, which is ideal for those looking to enjoy camping, fishing, or wildlife viewing.
When planning a visit to Tongue River Reservoir State Park, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. The park is open year-round, but the camping season typically runs from mid-May to mid-September, depending on weather conditions. Fees include a small day-use fee for out-of-state visitors, while Montana residents with a state park pass can enter for free. Camping fees vary depending on the type of campsite selected.
The park offers basic facilities, including vault toilets and drinking water, but there are no electric hookups or shower facilities so visitors should prepare for a more primitive camping experience. For boaters, there are no specific restrictions for motorboats on the reservoir, though it’s important to be mindful of other boaters, swimmers, and anglers.
Wildlife safety is another consideration. While larger wildlife encounters, such as with bears, are rare, it’s essential to store food properly and keep a safe distance from animals. In warmer months, be aware of the presence of rattlesnakes. Additionally, the rural location means that cell service can be spotty or nonexistent, so it’s a good idea to download maps or navigation tools ahead of time.
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If you want more information about visiting this small-town state park in Montana, then visit the Montana Fish & Wildlife Parks website. Want some more peaceful places in nature? Check out the most remote lake in Montana, perfect for a weekend getaway.
Also, make sure to sign up for an Alltrails Plus membership before you hike! That way you can receive plenty of information before you start your journey.
