PARADISE LAKE DISPERSED SITE 12

Closed — Currently inaccessible due to winter snow at high elevation. Forest roads typically close from late fall through spring depending on snowpack. Summer access generally opens late June or July when snow melts at higher elevations.

About

Paradise Lake Dispersed Site 12 is a primitive backcountry camping location in the Ten Lakes Scenic Area of Kootenai National Forest. This designated scenic area encompasses 14,945 acres of rugged, glacier-carved terrain in the Whitefish Mountains along Montana's Canadian border. The area features over 89 miles of trails winding through high alpine basins, pristine mountain lakes, and spectacular cirques carved by ancient glaciers. Peaks in the area reach over 7,800 feet, with Paradise Lake nestled among subalpine forests of Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, lodgepole pine, and the uncommon alpine larch. As a dispersed site in a Wilderness Study Area, this location provides a true backcountry experience with no developed amenities. The Ten Lakes area is managed to preserve wilderness characteristics and prohibits motorized vehicles except over-snow vehicles in winter. Access is via Forest Roads 114 and 319 from Highway 93 near Eureka, approximately 20 miles into the forest. The fragile high-elevation soils and pristine lakes require careful leave-no-trace practices, with designated campsites at most lakes to protect water quality.

Directions

From Eureka, take Highway 93 approximately 20 miles. Access via Forest Roads 114 and 319 to reach the Ten Lakes Scenic Area trailheads. Paradise Lake requires hiking into the backcountry.

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