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Hawkins Lakes Trail

Kootenai National Forest, Montana · 3 min read

Distance
7.8 mi
Elevation Gain
2,000 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
July through September
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
6 / 10

Trailhead Amenities

Restroom
None
Parking
Free
Cell Service
No Signal
Water
Nearby
Camping
Dispersed
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Two alpine lakes in a remote Purcell Mountains basin
  • Old-growth larch and spruce forest throughout the approach
  • Exceptional solitude in the Kootenai's least-visited mountain range
  • Native cutthroat fishing in both lakes
  • Wildlife habitat for grizzly bears, black bears, and wolverine

Overview

Hawkins Lakes sit in a remote basin in the Purcell Mountains of the northeastern Kootenai National Forest, accessible via a 7.8-mile round trip through old-growth larch and spruce forest that sees minimal foot traffic. Located in Montana's Lincoln County near Eureka, this trail reaches terrain in the Purcell Mountains that is even less visited than the Cabinet Mountains to the south, which are already remote by most standards.

The Purcell Mountains in Montana are geologically distinct from the Cabinets, composed of younger sedimentary rock that creates a different landscape character. The Hawkins Lakes basin sits in a bowl surrounded by forested ridges rather than dramatic granite cliffs, giving the destination a quieter, more intimate atmosphere than the high-relief Cabinet peaks.

The Route

Trailhead to Lower Larch Forest (0 to 2.5 miles)

The trail begins in mixed conifer and transitions quickly to old-growth western larch and Engelmann spruce. The lower drainage is creek-side walking with abundant water access points. The forest is genuinely old, with trees of substantial diameter throughout.

Mid-Trail Climb (2.5 to 3.5 miles)

The trail steepens as the drainage narrows toward the lake basin. The larch continues through the mid-section and the forest floor shows the moist, moss-covered character of the northern Kootenai drainages.

Hawkins Lakes Basin (3.5 to 3.9 miles)

The lower lake appears first, then the upper lake visible from the basin rim. Both lakes are clear and relatively shallow. The surrounding ridges provide enclosure without the dramatic vertical relief of the Cabinets. The upper lake is the conventional turnaround point.

When to Hike

July through September covers the accessible season. October is excellent for fall larch color but snow is possible at the lake elevation.

What to Bring

Bear spray is required in this grizzly recovery zone. Many hikers carry 2 to 3 liters of water with creek filtration available on the approach. Fishing gear and a Montana license add value at the lakes. No restroom at the trailhead.

Trailhead Access

Hawkins Creek Trailhead is in the Purcell Mountains east of Eureka, reached via Highway 93 and local forest roads. High-clearance vehicle required. No permit or fee required (as of 2026). No restroom. Limited parking for 6 to 8 vehicles.

Dogs are permitted with strict control given the grizzly presence.

Nearby

Hawkins Lakes is in the northeastern Kootenai, an area less visited than the Cabinet or Tobacco Valley sections. Ten Lakes Scenic Area Trail is to the northwest. Northwest Peak Trail is to the northwest near the Canadian border. The Cabinet Mountains and Libby-area trails are 60 to 90 minutes west for those combining destinations.

Check access road conditions using the USFS guide before the drive. Follow Leave No Trace principles throughout this remote and ecologically sensitive drainage.

Trailhead Parking

Gravel pull-out at the Hawkins Creek Trailhead in the Purcell Mountains area east of Eureka. Space for 6 to 8 vehicles. High-clearance vehicle required.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Hawkins Lakes Trail take?
The 7.8-mile round trip with 2,000 feet of gain takes most hikers 4 to 5.5 hours. The moderate grade is distributed across the full distance, making this a sustained but not punishing effort.
Is Hawkins Lakes Trail dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are permitted on Hawkins Lakes Trail. The remote, low-traffic environment suits dogs well. Keep dogs under strict control given the grizzly bear presence in this drainage.
Is fishing available at Hawkins Lakes?
Yes. Both lakes hold native cutthroat trout and receive virtually no angling pressure. A Montana fishing license is required (as of 2026). The upper lake typically offers better fishing as it is less disturbed.