Lady of the Lake

Difficulty: Moderate
Trip Type: Multi-Day Backpacking / Day Hike
Distance: ~1.9 miles from starting trailhead
Elevation: 8,981 feet
Coordinates: 45.06789, -109.89070
Time: ~1 hour from starting trailhead
Access: Maintained trail with low elevation changes. Departs from the Lady of the Lake Trailhead.
Bugs: Minimal (little to no bugs)

Getting there

The multi-day backpacking route departs from the Lady of the Lake Trailhead. Please note that this is a thru-hike itinerary; our group dropped one vehicle off at the Beaten Path Trailhead first, then jumped in the truck and drove over to the Lady of the Lake Trailhead to begin hiking. This ensures a vehicle is waiting for pickup at the other side when you finish the trip.

The hike

Getting to Lady of the Lake is a very easy and pleasant hike, spanning roughly 1.9 miles from the starting trailhead with about 270 feet of vertical elevation gain. The approach follows a very nice, highly maintained trail that presents minimal strenuous climbs, making it a great opening stretch for the first day of the trek.

Tips & safety

• Trail Navigation: Once you pass the shoreline of Lady of the Lake, you will immediately be met with a distinct split in the trail. To continue along the correct route toward the upper drainage basins, make sure to take the lower path fork.

• Thru-Hike Logistics: Because this extended itinerary finishes at a completely different exit point, ensure your logistics are arranged with a shuttle vehicle waiting at the final trailhead before you set out.

• Fishing: FWP and GNIS data listed for Brook Trout.