Turquoise Lake Backcountry Site is located in Flathead National Forest, MT, surrounded by forested terrain and mountainous landscapes. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during cooler months to highs in the 70s during warmer months. Nearby attractions include the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and the Continental Divide Trail, offering opportunities for hiking and exploration.

Camping can be limited due to the rugged terrain. If camping, please use Leave No Trace ethics, as this is an extremely fragile environment and a pristine area. 

Backpacking is the perfect way to visit some very beautiful and unique areas in remote locations such as in designated wilderness. Please remember to bring adequate gear and supplies, and remember to check the weather before you strike out on the trail. Trail condition reports area start, but remember to call the ranger district for the area in which you will be traveling before you go for any specific information and current conditions.

This trail is typically clear and snow-free by early to mid-July 

Follow Trail 690 as though heading to Glacier Lake through the mature forest along Glacier Creek. In about one mile the trail will approach the junction of Trail 690 and Trail 742, stay right on Trail 690 and start heading up the numerous, but well-graded switchbacks. While on the switchbacks don’t forget to look down onto Glacier Lake and into the basin in select locations. Trail 690 takes off to the hikers’ right towards Crescent Lake, while trail 708 will continue contouring the hillside, crossing rocky slopes and offering fantastic views of the area ahead. After climbing a couple more switchbacks, the forest becomes sparse and opens up into an alpine environment. Keep a close eye out for mountain goats on this trail. The trail then narrows and descends along rocky ledges down to Lagoon Lake. Due to rocky conditions, stock use in not recommended past Lagoon Lake From Lagoon Lake, an unmaintained trail skirts around, over, and down rock ledges to the roaring outlet of Turquoise Lake.

Turquoise Lake Backcountry Site

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, St. Ignatius, MT has a lot to offer. St. Ignatius is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Montana camping adventure.

St. Ignatius

The Best Camping Near St. Ignatius, Montana

Absolutely beautiful backpacking loop! About 6 miles in you will reach your destination of turquoise lake. I camped here on 6/19 and it was absolutely beautiful despite the “winter weather” This is a dispersed site so you can set your tent up anywhere within reason at the lake, however the terrain here is VERY rugged and most sites won’t fit anything larger than a 1 person backpacking tent. There are a few spots that can fit stuff bigger, but they’re a pain in the butt and you’ll probably have to walk far to set up a cook site/bear hang. Hang your food! There’s lots of wildlife at this lake and you will more than likely be neighbors with some goats. If you come in June prepare yourself for bugs.
You MUST pack out what you pack in. You can filter water from the lake, but I would recommend hiking in with water as well.

Photos of Turquoise Lake Backcountry Site

Real photos from real campers