Finger Lake Trail – Flathead National Forest, Montana

The Finger Lake Trail is a scenic, 2.8-mile hike in Northwest Montana. This easy, well-forested trail features a gentle incline, with rock formations and boulders scattered along the route. At the end of the hike, you’ll find a clearing with a stunning viewpoint overlooking the lake.

To get closer to the water, you have two options:

• Heading left is the more challenging route and may require some scrambling. A ladder was once available for climbing back up after cliff jumping, but it had been removed the last time I was there.
• Heading right provides an easier path down to the shore, allowing you to reach the water’s edge without difficulty.

What You Need to Know

The trailhead is a short drive up a forest service road and is accessible with a 2WD vehicle. Parking is generally available at any time of day, making this a relatively uncrowded hike.

The trail is usually accessible year-round. I’ve hiked it in both summer and fall, and I plan to return this winter to explore it on snowshoes.

The trail is dog-friendly, but I recommend keeping your dog on a leash. This is grizzly bear country, so maintaining control of your pet is essential.

Always carry bear deterrent, such as bear spray, and ensure you know how to use it.

Final Thoughts

The Finger Lake Trail is an easy, scenic hike that I often choose when hosting visitors who may not be avid hikers. It offers beautiful views with minimal effort—perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience.