Hearst Lake

Trail Details

Miles
11.6 Round Trip

Elevation Gain
2800ft

Difficulty Level
Moderate

Trailhead Coordinates
46.135858, -112.987189
* Google maps does not give accurate directions – do not rely on them! Reference these coordinates while looking at a road map.

Trail Description

Hearst Lake located in the Anaconda Mountains is a nearby hike to the town of Anaconda. The trailhead is literally right next to the town. We did this in winter, but imagine it would be a beautiful hike in the summer too. The trail starts out hiking through an open rolling field. After a mile, it meanders through aspen forest and then transitions into a softwood forest. You will get a brief view looking back at Anaconda before going around a noticeable bend to the left. Around this bend is where you start to head up Hearst Lake’s valley. After a few miles, you start to get some ridgeline cliff views. You will eventually see a small unnamed lake off to the left, which is not Hearst Lake. Go only .3 miles and you will arrive at Hearst Lake. Fantastic views of Mt Haggin can be seen from here on a clear day!