The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Lolo National Forest

Embark on the Morrell Falls National Recreation Trail #30, a moderate hike that winds through a vibrant forest of mixed conifers. This 5.4-mile (8.7 km) route features a gentle elevation gain of 303 feet (92 metres), leading you along a rolling path to the impressive Morrell Falls. You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 19 minutes, enjoying the serene atmosphere and the sound of cascading water.

When planning your visit, note that the trailhead offers convenient parking and even dispersed campsites if you wish to extend your stay. An outdoor toilet is available for use. Remember that while the trail is generally closed to motorized vehicles, snowmobiles are permitted after December 1. Always be prepared for wildlife encounters, especially with bears, as you explore this beautiful area.

This trail is a highlight in Montana's Lolo National Forest, known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystem. As you approach the falls, you will pass Morrell Lake, which provides stunning views of the Swan Mountains. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like beaver, deer, and elk, making the experience even more immersive and connected to nature.

Embark on the Blossom Lakes Trail out and back, a moderate hike that takes you through lush green forests and past an old canal from the mining era. You will cover a distance of 7.0 miles (11.2 km) and gain 1435 feet (437 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 3 hours and 33 minutes to complete. The route leads you to the serene waters of Blossom Lake and the impressive Pear Lake, offering beautiful mountain views and diverse scenery with huckleberry bushes, fir, and larch trees.

To plan your visit, the trailhead is conveniently located at Thompson Pass, making it an accessible option for a day trip. While day hikers do not need specific permits, if you are considering backpacking, campsites are available at both Blossom Lake and Pear Lake. The trail is particularly popular during the autumn months when the larch trees turn a vibrant golden color, creating a spectacular display.

This route in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests is known for its rich natural environment, showcasing a variety of flora including wildflowers and abundant huckleberry bushes. The presence of the old mining canal adds a historical layer to your journey, connecting you to the region's past. The changing seasons bring different beauty, with fall offering especially colorful shrubs alongside the golden larches.

The Lake Dinah Trail offers a classic Montana hiking experience, leading you through mature pine forests and open meadows before culminating at a pristine alpine lake. This moderate 4.4-mile (7.1 km) round trip route involves 533 feet (162 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours and 1 minute to complete. You'll navigate uneven terrain with roots and rocks, and the final ascent to Lake Dinah is steep and rocky, rewarding you with expansive views of the lake, the Swan Range, and the Seeley Lake Valley.

Before you head out, be aware that the last mile of the access road to the trailhead is rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for a smoother journey. The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including bears, so it's smart to carry bear spray. Remember that the trail is closed to motorized vehicles year-round, ensuring a peaceful hiking environment.

Lake Dinah itself is a beautiful glacial alpine lake, sitting at an elevation of 6,476 feet. It's a popular spot for fishing, boasting a self-sustaining rainbow trout population, and offers a refreshing opportunity for swimming on warmer days. You'll find suitable campsites at Lake Dinah and nearby Lake Elsina, making it a great option for an overnight adventure.

The Access to Upper Marshall Trail offers a deep dive into a genuine backcountry experience, winding through lush forests and moss-covered paths. You'll trace attractive waterways like Calamity Brook and Herbert Brook, eventually reaching Flowed Lands, where a short spur provides outstanding views of the tranquil area. The terrain constantly changes, from rugged sections with boardwalks to steep, muddy herd paths higher up, providing a true wilderness feel.

This is a difficult 10.0-mile (16.1 km) hike with 2188 feet (667 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 5 hours and 6 minutes to complete. Navigation can be challenging in the upper sections due to unmarked paths, and stream crossings can be hazardous, especially in wet conditions. Plan to start early from the Upper Works Trailhead, a historical access point, to ensure parking and allow ample time for the challenging route.

Mount Marshall is one of the Adirondack 46 High Peaks, named after wilderness advocate Robert Marshall. While its summit is tree-covered, a nearby spur trail offers expansive panoramic vistas. This trail is valued for its solitude and immersive wilderness experience, making it a great option for those seeking a less crowded challenge compared to some neighboring peaks, particularly if you're working on the 46er list.