Overview
Mystic Lake is the most popular full-day destination in the southern Custer Gallatin National Forest, and the trail to reach it is among the most rewarding in the Beartooth Range. The route follows West Rosebud Creek through a narrow canyon with cascades and waterfalls before climbing to a large alpine lake at 8,900 feet, backdropped by the vertical rock walls of the Beartooth escarpment. The lake itself is large enough that the far shore appears distant, and in late evening light the reflections of the surrounding peaks on still water produce the kind of image that ends up framing living rooms.
The trail also serves a second purpose: it is the standard approach for climbers attempting Granite Peak, Montana's highest summit. The route from West Rosebud continues above Mystic Lake to Froze-to-Death Plateau, and overnight parties bound for the summit make their camp somewhere on the approach. Day hikers going only to Mystic Lake have none of those technical ambitions and a thoroughly satisfying objective.
With 1,700 feet of gain over 5.5 miles, the route is not casual, but it is well within reach of fit day hikers who are accustomed to sustained climbing. The canyon section provides consistent shade and the creek provides water throughout, making this a more forgiving route than plateau trails with longer exposed sections.
The Route
Miles 0 to 3: West Rosebud Trailhead to Canyon
From the parking area, the trail follows the West Rosebud Creek canyon through dense subalpine forest. The terrain is moderate in the first mile, then steepens into the canyon proper. At roughly mile 2, the first significant waterfall appears on the right a good rest stop and photography spot. The canyon walls narrow and the creek becomes louder as the trail climbs closer to the headwall. This is the most dramatic section of the trail, with rock walls visible above the forest canopy.
Miles 3 to 5.5: Canyon Headwall to Mystic Lake
Above the canyon, the trail climbs more steeply toward the headwall before arriving at Mystic Lake. A hydroelectric facility on the lake's eastern shore is an unexpected industrial presence in this otherwise wild setting it has operated here for decades under a historical permit. The lake is large enough to walk around, and the views from the north shore toward the Beartooth peaks are spectacular. The water is exceptionally clear.
When to Visit
Mid-July through September is the prime window. The upper canyon and areas near the lake can hold snow into early July in heavy snow years. The trail is well-traveled enough that path conditions are generally reliable after mid-July. September brings quieter conditions and reliable weather.
Check current conditions before your trip using the conditions-checking guide.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry the following for this 11-mile round-trip:
- 3 liters of water capacity; filter for refilling from the creek
- Full rain and wind layers for the lake's exposed shoreline
- Bear spray (grizzly bear territory throughout the drainage)
- Bear canister if staying overnight (required in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness; see our bear canister guide)
- Sunscreen; the lake basin is exposed
- Snacks and a full lunch for a long day
Individual hydration and gear needs vary. Altitude acclimatization is relevant for hikers arriving from sea level take it easier on day one.
Practical Details
No permit is required for day hiking as of 2026. Overnight stays in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness require bear canister use. Self-registration at the trailhead wilderness boundary is standard. Fires are prohibited above treeline and may be restricted at lower elevations during dry conditions.
America the Beautiful passes are not required for the West Rosebud Trailhead. The veteran benefits guide covers fee programs that apply to developed campgrounds near the trailhead.
Getting There
From Red Lodge, Montana, drive north on US-212 to Roscoe (approximately 15 miles), then turn west onto West Rosebud Road. Follow the gravel road approximately 15 miles to the trailhead. From Billings, allow approximately 2 hours. Red Lodge has hotels, a gear shop, and restaurants for pre- or post-hike logistics.