BLUEBIRD LAKE DISPERSED SITE 22

Open — Forest roads accessing the trailhead are snow-closed from late fall through spring. Winter access requires over-snow travel. Summer season typically runs July through September depending on snowpack.

About

Bluebird Lake Dispersed Site 22 is a primitive backcountry campsite situated at one of the scenic alpine lakes in the Ten Lakes Scenic Area of Kootenai National Forest. Located in the extreme northwest corner of Montana near the Canadian border, this remote area features over 89 miles of trails through rugged, glacier-carved terrain with spectacular mountain views. The site is accessed via the Highline Trail from a trailhead on Forest Road 319, approximately 20 miles off Highway 93 near Eureka. The Ten Lakes Scenic Area is part of the Whitefish Range and contains designated wilderness study area lands where motorized vehicles are prohibited, except for over-snow vehicles in winter. The hike to Bluebird Lake passes through spruce forests and open meadows, with Paradise Lake also accessible along the route. The area is known for abundant wildflowers in spring and summer, huckleberry picking, and excellent fishing opportunities. Many visitors opt for overnight backpacking trips to fully explore the basin. This is true dispersed camping with no facilities whatsoever. Campers must be self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles. Forest roads accessing the trailhead are typically snow-closed from late fall through late spring, making winter access possible only by snowshoe, cross-country ski, or snowmobile over considerable distances.

Directions

From Eureka, take Highway 93 north. Turn onto Forest Road 114 or 319 and travel approximately 20 miles to the Highline Trailhead. Hike the Highline Trail approximately 3.5 miles to reach Bluebird Lake. Forest roads are rough and typically impassable when snow-covered.

Nearby Campgrounds