Fairy Lake is a moody green lake located in the northwestern section of the Gallatin National Forest, in Gallatin County, Montana. It is nestled at the base of the Sacagawea Peak in the Bridger Mountains in the south-central part of the state. With a considerable elevation of 7,557 ft (2,303 m), the best season to hike Fairy Lake Trail is during the warm time of the year from mid-July through mid-September. It's also a popular destination for fishing, camping, and swimming. In winter, the road to the lake is impassable.
Fairy Lake Trail can be accessed from Fairy Lake Road not far from Bozeman, Montana. A 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) trail to the lake features wildflowers in the summer and the rope swing mid-way across the lake. If you plan to spend the night there, the lake is close to the Fairy Lake Campground that doesn't have a reservation system. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so make sure to arrive early.
Practical info
What is the ideal timeframe to plan a visit to Fairy Lake in Montana?
Fairy Lake in Montana is best visited from mid-July through mid-September when the weather is favorable for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and swimming. Access to the lake is limited during winter due to the road being impassable, so tourists are advised to plan their trips accordingly to avoid disappointment. Show more
What is the location of Fairy Lake in the Gallatin National Forest?
Fairy Lake is situated in the northwestern region of Gallatin National Forest, which is in Gallatin County, Montana. It is nestled at the base of the Sacagawea Peak, located in the Bridger Mountains' south-central part. Interested tourists can access Fairy Lake through Fairy Lake Road, which is only a short distance from Bozeman, Montana. Show more
What is the elevation of Fairy Lake?
Fairy Lake is elevated at 7,557 ft (2,303 m)above sea level offering visitors a unique hiking experience via its 1.2 miles (1.9 km) long trail. The summer wildflowers make the hike breathtaking. Visitors planning to hike should take necessary precautions like drinking enough water, sustained sunscreen use, and carrying appropriate gear due to the high altitude. Show more
What recreational activities are available to tourists at Fairy Lake?
Fairy Lake offers tourists a wealth of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, camping, and swimming. The lake is famous for its rope swing located mid-way across the lake, adding a unique thrill for visitors. Its scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Show more
Is it possible to reserve space at the Fairy Lake Campground?
Fairy Lake operates on a first come, first serve basis. Visitors are advised that the campground is only open during the summer months, from mid-June through Labor Day. Therefore, visitors should plan their trips accordingly and aim to arrive as early as possible to secure a spot without an advanced reservation system in place. Show more
