Lava Lake
The most popular alpine lake hike in Gallatin Canyon, climbing about 5 kilometers through the forest to a lake surrounded by mountains.
The Lava Lake trail begins near Bridge 34 beside Highway 191 and climbs through the forest alongside the canyon stream. The one-way distance is about 5 kilometers with a climb of about 500 meters, and the round trip takes about 4 hours. The destination is a clear alpine lake surrounded by peaks of the Madison Range, where you can picnic and fish, and some people swim in summer. Entry is free. The trail is on the edge of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, so carry bear spray and hike with a companion. Parking spaces are limited on weekends, so arrive early.
Opening hours
All day (daytime recommended)
Nearby sights
- Gallatin Canyon
- Ousel Falls
- Big Sky Resort
- Bozeman Hot Springs
- Hyalite Canyon
- Palisade Falls
- American Computer & Robotics Museum
- Museum of the Rockies