The next mile leads to forested Lower Crystal Lake, the smaller of the two lakes. There are still remnants of historic mining activity. The trail forms a 1.75 mile … CONDON – Crystal Lake holds the unusual distinction of having three trails to choose from — all with different challenges, but all leading into the Mission Mountains Wilderness. Stay on Crystal Lake Road to the Lewis and Clark National Forest boundary, where the road becomes paved. Park at the far end of the lake, past the turnoff to the campground. The trail seems to showcase every tree species in western Montana: gargantuan larch and ponderosa grow shoulder to shoulder with cedar and yew. Area Map: Lolo Forest Visitors Map .USGS Map 1: McGee Peak, Montana - Idaho.Township 18N; Range 30W; Section 22 Length: 3.8 miles.Trail Begins: Forest Road 236.Trail Ends: State Line Road 391. Turn left onto Crystal Lake Road (dirt) and go 5.3 miles to a Y intersection. The first 1.5 miles of trail climbs through the forest on a series of switchbacks which provide a good look at Mount Rainier until the view is eclipsed by Crystal Peak. Follow the paved road and signs to Crystal Lake. You’ll Love Digging For Crystals At This Unique Montana Park. Crystal Lake Shoreline Loop Trail (404) is very easy to hike, as it follows the shoreline of Crystal Lake and is almost level. From Lewistown, take US Highway 87 north 8.7 miles to Forest Access sign (Crystal Lake Road). Crystal Lake And while numerous routes—including a canoe portage—access Crystal, the best day hike is the 2.2-mile, dessert-first descent from the upper Bunyan Lake trailhead. We all know Montana is a gem, but it’s actually called The Treasure State because it’s full of them. Crystal Lake sits in the same drainage as Lindbergh Lake, just north of the community of Seeley Lake. Bear left and go 3.9 miles to Recreation Area sign. https://www.enjoylewistown.com/lewistown-montana-outdoors/crystal-lake The trail provides access to the entire shore with opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, fishing, picnicking, etc. The lovely open basin containing Upper Crystal Lake lies .5 mile beyond the lower lake. The Crystal Lake Scenic Drive is a twenty-four mile route that leads to the clear waters of Crystal Lake, a mountain lake tucked away deep in the Big Snowy Mountains of Central Montana. Find information about Crystal Lake National Recreation Trail, a Montana trail Our rich mineral reserves have been a major part of our economy in the past, and these days, you can still find gold, sapphires, and other stones all over the state. Turn left at sign, continuing on Crystal Lake Road, and go 12.7 miles to campground. There is a paved parking area with space for about 8 vehicles, a vault toilet and potable water at the trailhead. 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