Lava Lake

based on 157 tracks & routes #53 hike out of 148 in
5.1 mi
Distance
2 hrs 26 min
Time
terrain
1,599 ft
Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult out and back trail to Lava Lake in Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area.

This popular and heavily traveled hike is a steady incline up to the scenic Lava Lake. Hikers can plan to sit on the large rock formations at the water’s edge before heading back down to the trailhead. It is also a popular camping area for those backpacking up to the lake.

Getting Started

This hike is very popular in the warmer seasons but less so in winter. The parking lot fills quickly in warmer seasons so plan ahead if you are arriving later in the day. The trailhead includes outhouse toilet facilities and borders the Gallatin River.

Taking Children

This is a good hike for kids if they are OK with the distance. In the summer, a swim in the lake can be a refreshing reward after the steep climb.


Sights to See


    Rate this Hike

    user_profile
    1 year, 10 months ago
    Steep incline pretty much the whole way. Going down was a breeze. Pretty rocky though
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    user_profile
    2 years, 9 months ago
    As z
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    user_profile
    6 years, 11 months ago
    Lake is amazing...not super hard
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    user_profile
    1 year, 9 months ago
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    1 year, 10 months ago
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    2 years, 1 month ago

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    3 years ago
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    4 years, 2 months ago
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    4 years, 9 months ago
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    4 years, 10 months ago
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    5 years, 11 months ago
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    6 years, 10 months ago
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Public Tracks

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CalmSequoia7184 6 years, 1 month ago
Lava Lake Trail
Moderate uphill, rocky trail, 2 seasonal creek crossings, lake is beautiful. Busy spot though.
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MintRainbow2683 2 weeks, 6 days ago
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Jeremy Garcia 1 month, 2 weeks ago
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HeroicOlive1088 3 months, 3 weeks ago
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Ian Kell 5 months, 4 weeks ago
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SteepField3921 10 months, 2 weeks ago
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MildBeach8169 10 months, 2 weeks ago
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GladBirch4005 1 year, 1 month ago
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Gavin 1 year, 6 months ago
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marqanz 1 year, 9 months ago
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Allison H 1 year, 10 months ago
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QuietSwamp4460 4 years, 7 months ago
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SteepBasin9397 5 years, 5 months ago
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ThinRun7254 5 years, 6 months ago
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justin.pennel 5 years, 11 months ago
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Steve 6 years, 11 months ago
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BJORN BORG 7 years, 11 months ago
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HugeBeach9741 8 years ago
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Peter Billman 9 years, 3 months ago
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NobleStream9763 11 years, 9 months ago