Top 9 Lakes in the Cabinet Mountains

The Cabinet Mountains offer a diverse range of lakes, including pristine alpine lakes nestled among rugged peaks, glacial lakes fed by permanent snowfields, and larger reservoirs like Lake Koocanusa. You'll find everything from remote mountain lakes to those suitable for water activities.

Yes, several lakes are great for families. Ashley Lake Road offers scenic views along Ashley Lake, which is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Rexford Beach on Lake Koocanusa is another family-friendly spot with facilities, ideal for swimming and spotting wildlife like osprey and eagles. Upper Stillwater Lake is also noted as family-friendly.

For dramatic scenery, consider Leigh Lake, cradled beneath the near-vertical cliffs of Snowshoe Peak. Little Ibex Lake also sits amidst a dramatic backdrop of tall peaks with excellent views of Snowshoe Peak. Granite Lake is another stunning option, filled by the Cabinet Mountains' last glacier and dominated by A-Peak.

The Cabinet Mountains Wilderness is home to diverse wildlife. Visitors often spot grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, elk, and moose. The lakes and surrounding forests provide habitats for many species, and you might even see osprey and eagles fishing in larger lakes like Lake Koocanusa.

Absolutely. Hiking is a primary way to experience the lakes. Trails range from moderate to challenging, leading to destinations like Leigh Lake, Lower Geiger Lake, and Upper Cedar Lake. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking in the Cabinet Mountains guide.

Beyond hiking, the lakes and surrounding areas offer various activities. Many lakes are popular for fishing, especially for cutthroat trout. Larger lakes like Ashley Lake and Lake Koocanusa are great for swimming and boating. You can also explore mountain biking trails, such as those listed in the MTB Trails in the Cabinet Mountains guide, or enjoy scenic cycling routes like the Ashley Lake Loop mentioned in the Cycling in the Cabinet Mountains guide.

The best time to visit is generally during the summer months for hiking and water activities. Some trails, like the one to St. Paul Lake, are particularly pleasant for summer hikes. For stunning fall colors, consider visiting Leigh Lake, where the surrounding area can be ablaze with orange and red hues.

Yes, Granite Lake is notable for being fed by the Cabinet Mountains' last glacier on Snowshoe Peak, featuring a waterfall and the prominent A-Peak buttress. Little Ibex Lake is also fed by permanent snowfields, remnants of the former Ibex Glacier.

Lakes like the Geiger Lakes (Lower and Upper) provide a true wilderness experience, with trails passing through diverse subalpine vegetation. St. Paul Lake is another remote alpine lake, known for its pristine nature and impressive views of St. Paul Peak, offering a sense of solitude.

Yes, backpacking is a popular activity. While campsites around Leigh Lake can be limited due to its popularity, it's a rewarding destination. The Cedar Lakes, particularly Upper Cedar Lake, are ideal for overnight backpacking trips due to their challenging trails and spectacular views. Dispersed campsites are also available around St. Paul Lake.

The hike to St. Paul Lake is special for its journey through an old-growth forest of hemlock and giant cedars, featuring a lush, mossy floor and numerous ferns. The lake itself is nestled in a cirque at the foot of St. Paul Peak, offering impressive views and several tall waterfalls, making it a favorite for photographers.

Wanless Lake, the largest lake in the Cabinet Mountains, is best viewed from higher elevations. You can get scenic views overlooking Wanless Lake from Lost Buck Pass, which is accessible from Upper Geiger Lake, or from Goat Peak.