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Storm Lake Trail

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Montana · 3 min read

Distance
8 mi
Elevation Gain
1,800 ft
Difficulty
moderate-hard
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
8 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Remote alpine lake with minimal visitor traffic
  • Dense subalpine forest transitioning to open cirque terrain
  • Strong cutthroat trout fishing in the lake
  • Views of the Pintler Range peaks from the lake basin

Overview

Storm Lake occupies a classic cirque basin below the Continental Divide in the Pintler Range, one of the ranges that make up the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The 8-mile round-trip and 1,800-foot climb earn a moderate-hard rating that is honest the upper trail is sustained and rocky but the destination is an alpine lake that sees little traffic despite being one of the more accessible high-country lakes in this section of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.

The forest character on this trail is particularly fine. Dense Engelmann spruce and subalpine fir create a cathedral-like lower trail, with shafts of light through the canopy and the constant sound of the creek below. Above treeline, the terrain opens into the rocky, open cirque that holds Storm Lake at approximately 8,700 feet. The lake is named aptly afternoon thunderstorms roll through the basin regularly in July and August, adding drama to the surroundings.

For hikers interested in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness but not ready for the full 12-mile loop, this is an excellent introduction. The terrain types are similar and the views from the lake basin approach those from the divide passes, but the total commitment is lower and the chance of bad weather catching you above treeline is reduced.

The Route

Miles 0 to 3: Trailhead to Mid-Forest

The trail begins near 6,900 feet and gains elevation steadily through spruce-fir forest. The path is well-maintained and easy to follow in the lower section, with trail register at the wilderness boundary around mile 1. The creek that drains Storm Lake runs parallel to the trail in sections, providing water access. By mile 2.5, the trail steepens as it approaches the cirque headwall.

Miles 3 to 4: Cirque Headwall to Storm Lake

The final mile involves the route's most sustained climbing, roughly 600 feet as the trail switchbacks up the headwall into the cirque. At the top, the terrain suddenly levels and Storm Lake appears. The lake sits in a rocky basin with sparse krummholz on its shores and the Pintler peaks visible to the west. The far shore is the most sheltered spot for a rest or lunch break.

When to Visit

July through September is the reliable window. The cirque and upper trail can hold significant snow into July in heavy years. September is an excellent choice the upper basin is quieter and the weather is generally stable, though early-season snow is possible by late month.

Check current trail conditions using the conditions-checking guide before your trip.

What to Bring

Many hikers carry the following for Storm Lake Trail:

  • 2-3 liters of water with filter or purification tablets
  • Full rain gear; afternoon storms are common in the basin
  • Insulating layer for the exposed lake shoreline
  • Bear spray (bear activity in this wilderness)
  • Bear canister if staying overnight
  • Fishing gear and Montana license

Individual needs vary. The moderate-hard rating means this route is not appropriate for beginners without sustained hiking experience.

Practical Details

No permit is required for day hiking as of 2026. Self-registration at the wilderness boundary trailhead register. Fires are prohibited above treeline. Dispersed camping is permitted with Leave No Trace practices.

Getting There

From Anaconda, Montana, take forest roads south toward the Storm Lake drainage. The Pintler Ranger District in Anaconda can provide current road numbers and conditions. The trailhead is approximately 15-18 miles from Anaconda by forest road. High-clearance vehicles are recommended. Butte is approximately 25 miles east of Anaconda via MT-1.

Trailhead Parking

Storm Lake Trailhead, accessed via forest roads south of Anaconda, Montana. Gravel road access. Parking for 10-15 vehicles.

← Back to Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Storm Lake good for fishing?
Yes. Storm Lake holds cutthroat trout and sees limited fishing pressure due to the distance and elevation gain required to reach it. A Montana fishing license is required.
How does this trail compare to the Anaconda-Pintler Loop?
Storm Lake Trail is shorter and gains less elevation than the Pintler Loop, making it a good warm-up option for hikers not ready for the full loop. It reaches similar terrain types dense forest, then open cirque in a more contained route.
Are there camping opportunities at Storm Lake?
Dispersed camping is permitted in the national forest. The lake basin has flat areas suitable for small camps. Bear canisters are required for overnight stays in the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness.
What is the trail surface like?
The trail is well-defined in the lower forest sections and becomes rockier as it approaches the cirque. No technical scrambling is required, but the terrain becomes rough in the final mile.
Is there water on the trail?
Yes, particularly in the lower sections where streams cross the trail. Filtering or treating all water is strongly recommended. The lake itself is a reliable source near the turnaround.