Guided Alpine Lake Float and Hike - Southern Bitterroot Mountains

Darby, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (66 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

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    Other
    Freshly Filtered Water from Snowmelt
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    Other
    Bear Spray
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    Other
    Backpacks
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    Other
    Packraft Rentals (4 per group limited by FS)
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    Other
    Wilderness First Responder and Leave No Trace Certified Guide
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    Other
    Local Plant and Animal Identification
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    Other
    Guide carries GPS Communicator, First Aid Kit
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    Other
    Huckleberry Picking - Mid July to Sept
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    Snacks
    Local Beef Jerkey, Vegan Jerkey, Trail Mix, Assorted Dried Fruit, Natural Protein Bars, GoMacro Bars, Lara Bars.
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    Other
    Sciencey Nature Talks
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    Other
    Silly Guide Jokes
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    Other
    Trekking Poles

Excluded

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    Other
    Clothing / Hiking Clothing
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    Other
    Hiking Shoes
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    Other
    Sunscreen
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    Other
    Raincoat (always bring just in case of emergency)
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    Other
    Transportation - Transportation services are available! Please contact us to help you get a ride!
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    Other
    Warm Clothing if forecast is chilly - we have backups if you need!

Meeting Point

The final 5 miles to the trailhead is on dirt service road. Please proceed slowly, about 20 mph. Most vehicles will make it to the trailhead without issue! Parking for long vehicles, trailers, and low clearance vehicles available at Coyote Coulee Trailhead.

Meeting point

Lost Horse Observation Point Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 , United States

End point

End Point

The final 5 miles to the trailhead is on dirt service road. Please proceed slowly, about 20 mph. Most vehicles will make it to the trailhead without issue! Parking for long vehicles, trailers, and low clearance vehicles available at Coyote Coulee Trailhead.

Meeting point

Lost Horse Observation Point Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 , United States

End point

What to expect

Embark on a day hike and float on a serene alpine lake! Hike up a glacially carved canyon with a local expert guide in the Bitterroot Mountains. Along the way, your guide will identify local plants and animals and talk about the natural history of the Bitterroot! Once you reach the lake, you'll float on the lake in inflatable packrafts. Your guide will also make you fresh tea or coffee for you to enjoy while you float, all while leaving no trace! Then, you'll pack up and head back to the trailhead on this out-and-back trail. Packrafts, backpacks, trekking poles, bear spray, and safety equipment rentals are included in the price. One packraft setup (packraft, paddle, life vest) for each adult or youth ticket, up to 4 rafts (our permit restricts us from more). Your guide carries two packraft setups. Book a private tour to guarantee the guide carries your gear. Trail Mix, Beef and Vegan Jerky, and Cliff/Lara/Granola Bars are given to you in your snack bag! Your guide will also carry a water filter, first aid kit, Garmin GPS communicator, and other basic tools needed for an outing in the backcountry. Hikes are around 6 - 8 mi with significant elevation gain (> 1000 ft).
1

Coyote Coulee Trailhead

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Embark on a day hike and float on a serene alpine lake! Hike up a glacially carved canyon with a local expert guide in the Bitterroot Mountains. Along the way, your guide will identify local plants and animals and talk about the natural history of the Bitterroot! Once you reach the lake, you'll float on the lake in inflatable packrafts. Your guide will also make you fresh tea or coffee for you to enjoy while you float, all while leaving no trace! Then, you'll pack up and head back to the trailhead on this out-and-back trail. Packrafts, backpacks, trekking poles, bear spray, and safety equipment rentals are included in the price. One packraft setup (packraft, paddle, life vest) for each adult or youth ticket, up to 4 rafts (our permit restricts us from more). Your guide carries two packraft setups. Book a private tour to guarantee the guide carries your gear. Trail Mix, Beef and Vegan Jerky, and Cliff/Lara/Granola Bars are given to you in your snack bag! Your guide will also carry a water filter, first aid kit, Garmin GPS communicator, and other basic tools needed for an outing in the backcountry. Hikes are around 6 - 8 mi with significant elevation gain (> 1000 ft).

2

Hamilton

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Anyone in general good health can complete one of these trips. Please inquire before booking!
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Bitterroot Backpacking

What our experts say

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    Bring a raincoat, it's essential!
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    Consider visiting nearby Hamilton for lunch.
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    Don't forget sunscreen for sunny days.
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    Be prepared for water crossings on trails.
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    Enjoy fresh tea while floating on the lake!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Bitterroot National Forest with the Alpine Lake Float and Guided Hike in the Bitterroot Mountains. This unique adventure combines a challenging hike through a glacially scoured canyon with a relaxing float on an alpine lake. As you immerse yourself in the rugged grandeur of this pristine wilderness, your experienced guide will ensure your safety and enrich your journey with fascinating insights.

What to expect?

Prepare for an unforgettable 6-mile hike through the stunning Bitterroot National Forest. With a total elevation gain of 1200 feet, the trail takes you to a high elevation backcountry lake that will leave you in awe. Once there, you'll embark on an inflatable packraft and paddle around the lake, soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery. While you enjoy the peaceful float, your guide will prepare a delicious backpacker-style lunch, offering you a taste of Pad Thai, Pasta Primavera, or Beef Stroganoff.

Who is this for?

This adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and anyone seeking an extraordinary experience in a pristine wilderness setting. Whether you're an experienced hiker or new to hiking, this guided tour is designed to accommodate all skill levels. Bring along friends, family, or even solo travelers looking to connect with nature and make lasting memories.

Why book this?

What sets this experience apart from others is the combination of a thrilling hike and a serene float on an alpine lake. Bitterroot Backpacking is the only guide service offering this unique activity, making it a truly one-of-a-kind adventure. With packrafts, backpacks, trekking poles, bear spray, and safety equipment provided, you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without worrying about gear. Moreover, your guide will be equipped with a water filter, ensuring you can stay hydrated with crisp mountain creek water along the way.

Good to know

Before embarking on this adventure, keep in mind that the trails may not always be well maintained, and there might be seasonal creeks to cross. However, with the expertise of your guide, these challenges will become part of your incredible journey. As an extra treat, you'll receive a snack bag filled with Shar Trail Mix, Beef and Vegan Jerky, and Lara Bars to keep you energized along the way.

Reviews

Previous adventurers who have embarked on the Alpine Lake Float and Guided Hike in the Bitterroot Mountains have praised this experience for its unparalleled beauty and unique blend of hiking and paddling. They have lauded the knowledgeable guides for their expertise and ability to provide a safe and memorable journey. The peaceful float on the alpine lake and the mouthwatering backpacker-style lunch have been highlights of the trip, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the adventure. Overall, participants have expressed sheer satisfaction with the performance and quality of this unforgettable experience.

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