The best walks and hikes around Lake Koocanusa
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Hiking around Lake Koocanusa offers diverse terrain within the Kootenai National Forest, characterized by dense woodlands, mountain ascents, and lakeside paths. The region features varied elevation changes, from gentle lakeside loops to more challenging climbs up peaks like Alexander Mountain and Webb Mountain. Trails often follow creeks and offer views of the expansive lake, providing a mix of forest immersion and open vistas.
Best hiking trails around Lake Koocanusa
- The most popular hiking route is Swisher Lake Campground Trail to…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
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5.89km
01:32
40m
40m
If you're looking for an easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) hike that takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes with just 140 feet (43 metres) of elevation gain, the Swisher Lake…
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17.3km
06:27
1,080m
1,080m
The Pacific Northwest Trail from Koocanusa Bridge to Webb Mountain offers a demanding journey through diverse Kootenai National Forest terrain, culminating in spectacular panoramic views. You'll start near the impressive…
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6.84km
02:46
540m
540m
Embark on the Alexander Mountain Trail #270, a moderate hike that takes you through the natural beauty of Northwestern Montana. This route covers 4.3 miles (6.8 km) and involves a…
1.08km
00:17
0m
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Embark on an easy hike along the Little Hoodoo Trail, a peaceful route through the Kootenai National Forest in Montana. As you walk, you will experience a natural ground surface…
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6.94km
01:51
70m
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The Pacific Northwest Trail: Rexford Bench Loop offers a delightful and accessible forest walk, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll wander through the peaceful Kootenai National Forest, enjoying the quiet…
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Tips from the Community
Sophie Creek is a great spot for a picnic on the sandy beach as you watch the creek flow into the Kootenai River.
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The Koocanusa Bridge is the highest and longest bridge Montana. It also overlaps with the Pacific Northwest hiking Trail, which begins in Montana and ends in Cape Alava on the coast of Washington State.
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Alexander Mountain has a wooded summit, so doesn't provide particularly good views. However, most hikers turn back at the overlook well below the top of the mountain, so proceeding to the peak offers a longer, more isolated hike if that's what you're after.
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The Alexander Mountain Trail departs from this location. You can hike all the way to the summit, or simply stop about half-a-mile up the trail at the overlook with views of Lake Koocanusa. There is parking available at this trailhead.
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A rocky outcrop provides views of Koocanusa Lake and the encompassing valley. Alexander Mountain Trail continues to gain elevation after this, but the opportunity for views diminishes.
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Koocanusa Bridge is the tallest and longest bridge in Montana. It spans the width of the Kootenai River where it forms Koocanusa Lake. Parking is available on both sides of the bridge.
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5,988-foot-tall Webb Mountain is home to a fire lookout tower that was built in 1959. There is a vault toilet on the premises, and the lookout tower can be rented for overnight stay from the U.S. Forest Service at a cost of $45 per night. The summit offers expansive views of the Kootenai River and the surrounding mountains.
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Ninety miles long, Lake Koocanusa got its name from a contest. Alice from Rexford, Montana, came up with the name using the first three letters of the Kootenay River, Canada, and USA.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Lake Koocanusa?
Hiking around Lake Koocanusa offers a diverse landscape within the Kootenai National Forest. You'll find dense woodlands, challenging mountain ascents, and serene lakeside paths. Trails often follow creeks and provide a mix of forest immersion and open vistas of the expansive lake.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Lake Koocanusa has several easy trails. For a gentle walk following a creek through the forest, consider the Swisher Lake Campground Trail to Sophie Creek. Another accessible option is the Pacific Northwest Trail on Lake Koocanusa loop, offering pleasant lakeside views.
Are there any loop trails around Lake Koocanusa?
Yes, there are loop options available. The Pacific Northwest Trail on Lake Koocanusa loop is an easy 6.9 km route. Additionally, the Surveyors Lake loop in nearby Kikomun Creek Provincial Park offers a shorter, easy 2 km loop.
What are some challenging hikes with significant elevation gain?
For a more strenuous experience with expansive views, the Pacific Northwest Trail from Koocanusa Bridge to Webb Mountain is a difficult 17.3 km path featuring significant elevation gain. Another moderate challenge is the Alexander Mountain Trail to Alexander Mountain, a 6.8 km route through mountain forest.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lake Koocanusa?
The best time for hiking around Lake Koocanusa is typically from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, trails are clear of snow, and the forest is vibrant. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any specific permits required for hiking in the Kootenai National Forest around Lake Koocanusa?
Generally, day hiking in the Kootenai National Forest does not require specific permits. However, it's always advisable to check with the local Forest Service office for any current regulations, especially if you plan on overnight camping or entering designated wilderness areas.
What are the typical trail lengths around Lake Koocanusa?
Trail lengths around Lake Koocanusa vary significantly. You can find shorter, easy loops like the 2 km Surveyors Lake loop, moderate trails around 6-7 km such as the Alexander Mountain Trail, and longer, more challenging routes like the 17.3 km Pacific Northwest Trail to Webb Mountain.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints along the trails?
Many trails offer scenic views of Lake Koocanusa itself, often through breaks in the dense forest. Mountain ascents, such as the one leading to Webb Mountain, provide expansive panoramas. You'll also find trails that follow creeks, adding to the natural beauty of the Kootenai National Forest.
Is there public transport available to reach the trailheads around Lake Koocanusa?
Public transport options directly to trailheads around Lake Koocanusa are generally limited. Most visitors access the area by private vehicle. It's recommended to plan for personal transportation to reach your desired starting points.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Lake Koocanusa?
The trails in Lake Koocanusa are appreciated by the komoot community for their varied terrain, from gentle lakeside paths to challenging mountain climbs. Hikers often praise the immersive forest experience and the scenic views of the lake.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in the area?
For families, the easier trails are a great choice. The Swisher Lake Campground Trail to Sophie Creek is an easy 5.9 km route that follows a creek, making it suitable for a family outing. The shorter Surveyors Lake loop is also a good option for younger children.
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