We've reached the time of year in Montana where it's best to either stay cozy indoors or hit the slopes. But it won't be long before we're out exploring our beautiful state again. And when that time comes, do yourself the favor of finding the Holland Lake and Falls trail in the Flathead National Forest. While Holland Lake remains a popular camping destination, the trail to the falls is highly underrated.
It's no secret that Montana has the most gorgeous lakes in the nation, and Holland Lake is no exception.
The lake covers 400 acres with amazing views of the Swan Range.
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The 3.3 mile trail is located near the small town of Condon in Missoula County.
The trail starts at the end of a parking lot, continuing to a junction.
Choose Trail 416 and follow the shores of Holland Lake, eventually climbing to the base of the falls.
Holland Falls is a beautiful sight, well worth the hike to reach.
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While this trail is obviously more popular in the summertime, it's just as breathtaking this time of year.
There's something especially beautiful about a frozen waterfall.
Hike this incredible trail any time of year -- you won't regret it.
And if you can't bear to leave, you can stay at the Holland Lake Campground when the weather permits.
The best part about the hike to Holland Falls is that it's easy enough for beginners. Here are some other amazing Treasure State trails for mere mortals.
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.
It's a paddler's paradise and no motors are allowed in this lake, so it's a perfectly peaceful experience.
If you brave the elements and decide to spend some time at this lake, you'll be treated to some real visual rewards.
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.
Fairy Lake is right at the base of the Sacagawea Peak, the highest peak in the Bridger Mountains.
While there's plenty of relaxing to be done here, we recommend finding your calm in the form of fishing.
Fly fishing is a great option here and you're likely to find both cutthroat and brook trout.
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.
This is a beautiful spot to remember just how much you love Big Sky country. You'll definitely want to add it to you outdoors bucket list.
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.