Kootenai Lakes
The beautiful water isn't the only attraction for those headed to Kootenai Lakes.
Plan Around Kootenai Lakes
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Kootenai Lakes Details
The beautiful water isn't the only attraction for those headed to Kootenai Lakes. It's an area known for an abundant moose population, so keep your eyes open for wildlife and expect to share the trail for this popular hike. The trailhead is just south of the Goat Haunt Ranger Station. The Goat Haunt area is known for its rugged beauty and remoteness and is often called "the gateway to the northern wilderness of Glacier National Park." Most visitors arrive to the quiet area via boat from Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. You'll want to take the Waterton Valley Trail. The fairly flat hike takes you through a nice forest. As you near the lakes, you'll start to catch glimpses of the Citadel Peaks, known for their spire shapes, in the distance. You'll get a clear view of these peaks, along with the famous Porcupine Ridge, from the shore of Kootenai Lake (the largest of the lakes in the area). It's a sight that feels as wild as a backcountry spot days into the park, yet you can reach it in just a few miles. Remember, Glacier is grizzly country. Carry bear spray, make noise and travel in groups. The trailhead is at Goat Haunt, via the Waterton Valley Trail.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
2.8 miles
Estimated time
2.4 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Kootenai Lakes
Compare nearby parks around Kootenai Lakes when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Kootenai Lakes
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Kootenai Lakes while the map context is still fresh.
0.1 mi away
Goat Haunt Overlook Trail
The Goat Haunt area is known for its rugged beauty and remoteness.
0.1 mi away
Lake Francis Trail
If you imagine a backcountry lake in Glacier National Park, it likely would look something like Lake Francis.
0.1 mi away
Lake Janet Trail
The spires and peaks that make up Porcupine Ridge in Glacier National Park surround Lake Janet.
0.2 mi away
Rainbow Falls Trail
This easy hike offers some of the best Glacier has to offer, with only a short walk.
6.5 mi away
Waterton Townsite
Goat Haunt is a launch point for easy day hikes, and long backcountry adventures, but you won't find any services in this area of the park. The closest place to stock up is Waterton Townsite in Canada.
