What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Fish Lake Trail
The Fish Lake Trail is a long out-and-back trail that leads right down to the Fish Lake BLM site. The somewhat challenging route features beautiful scenery and impressive views of the surrounding mountain peaks. You can bring your dogs on the hike as long as they stay leashed, and the best time to visit is between March and October.
Length: 8.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Blossom Lakes Trail
The Blossom Lakes Trail is one of numerous lovely hikes found within Lolo National Forest, which lies roughly 25 miles northeast of Fish Lake. In addition to being a quality hiking route, the out-and-back trail is also popular for horseback riding and backpacking. There are plenty of great camping opportunities found along the trail as well. The route will take you through lush greenery and near several placid lakes. If you plan on spending much time near the water or camping in the area, don't forget the bug spray!
Length: 5.5 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Maclay Flat Nature Trail
Another excellent trail in Lolo National Forest is the Maclay Flat Nature Trail. The scenic loop trail is short and easy to traverse, featuring a level, surfaced path and breathtaking mountain views. There are benches found along the route, and the trail is suitable for wheelchairs and mobility equipment. You can hike the trail, run it, or just take a pleasant, leisurely walk surrounded by the serenity of nature. You can bring your pups with you, and they can be off-leash in some areas.
Length: 1.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing & Boating
Visitors to the Fish Lake area will have plenty of quality opportunities to do some angling. Of course, the primary option is casting a line in Fish Lake itself, which is regularly stocked with both rainbow and cutthroat trout. Another option is the nearby St. Joe River, which is inhabited by mountain whitefish, cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, bull trout, and brook trout. The river also caters to several types of boating. There's a boat launch at the Shadowy St. Joe Campground, and certain sections of the river are perfect for advanced whitewater rafting.
Climbing
There aren't too many established climbing areas near Fish Lake, but there is the Lolo Climbing Area, which is located near Lolo Hot Springs, MT. The area features routes for bouldering, sports climbing, and trad climbing. Within the Lolo Climbing Area, the most popular sections are Elk Rock, Heap, and Tor Rock, which offer a variety of difficulty levels for both experienced and inexperienced climbers.
Wildlife Viewing
Much of the area surrounding Fish Lake consists of dense forests, and those woodlands are home to many different species of wildlife. While you're fishing or relaxing by the lake, you may spot a moose, elk, or mule deer come by to have a drink. You may even catch a glimpse of cougars, timberwolves, black bears, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, or mountain goats while you hike and explore the site. The area is also inhabited by golden eagles, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, herons, and thirty different varieties of ducks.
Picnicking
The Fish Lake area serves as a serene setting to enjoy a picnic. You likely won't have access to any tables at the BLM site, so you'll need to bring along your own setup. Many visitors choose to stake out spots right on the shores of the lake, as having a picnic next to the water always makes for a memorable experience. Plus, you'll be surrounded by the lush forest scenery while you eat.
