Kootenai Lakes Trail

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
2-2.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
8.9 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
111 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

Kootenai Lake Trail is in an interesting spot as it’s located right at the border of Canada and the United States. Your hike to the Kootenai Lake Trail actually begins on the Waterton Valley Trail and takes you through a beautifully green forest with relatively no elevation. Kootenai Lake is surrounded by the Porcupine Ridge, which holds the Citadel Peaks and makes for a wonderful setting.

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Route Description for Kootenai Lakes Trail

The hike for Kootenai Lake Trail begins at the Waterton Valley Trail, which you have to make sure you follow as the Waterton Lake Trail begins from the same point; however, the signs are pretty clear. Wandering through a beautifully green forest, you will come to the Kootenai Lake Trail junction after 4.0 km of hiking. Follow this trail and it will lead you to the stunning Lake of Kootenai, where you will be speechless as you gaze at the incredible site. This is an out and back trail, so follow the same route that you came in on.

Getting to the Kootenai Lakes Trail Trailhead

For the Kootenai Lakes Trail, it is easiest to get to the trailhead by boat, unless you want to do 7 hours of hiking! Take the boat from Goat Haunt Montana and it will bring you to Waterton Lake, where you can find the trailhead.

Route Information

  • When to do

    April - October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    Kootenai Lakes backcountry campground

  • Pets allowed

    No

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Low

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Kootenai Lakes Trail Elevation Graph

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Kootenai Lakes Trail Reviews

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