Discover The Montana State Park That’s Just As Stunning As Glacier

The state of Montana is house to 2 legendary nationwide parks, Yellowstone and Glacier, that are among the many most visited within the U.S. Whereas Glacier remains an underrated gem compared to Yellowstone, its scenic magnificence is acknowledged as one of the world’s best places to visit in 2025. Deemed the “Crown of the Continent,” it boasts dramatic landscapes, towering peaks, pristine lakes, and the long-lasting Going-to-the-Solar Street. With plentiful wildlife, vibrant wildflowers, rugged mountain climbing trails, and unmatched alpine views, it is no surprise Glacier Nationwide Park attracts in over 3.2 million visitors a year. Nonetheless, with this large variety of individuals pouring into the park, you may need to think about a much less crowded and cheaper various simply an hour away.

In northwest Montana, simply southeast of Libby, you may discover the Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park. It includes a string of 18 lakes and entry to greater than 20 miles of shoreline. Whereas that is nothing in comparison with Glacier’s 700+ lakes, this park is a hanging sight—an infinite maze of water, surrounded by untamed forests that supply numerous recreation alternatives. Learn on to find the wonders and adventures ready for you in Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park.

The Montana State Park That is Simply As Gorgeous As Glacier

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Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park is an over-20-mile stretch spanning the cities of Kalispell and Libby in northwest Montana. It is located between the Lolo and Kootenai Nationwide Forests. Among the many 18 lakes it covers are Decrease Thompson Lake, Center Thompson Lake, Higher Thompson Lake, McGregor Lake, Little McGregor Lake, Horseshoe Lake, and Loon Lake. Throughout the day, these crystal-clear waters vividly replicate the majestic mountain ridges and dense pine forests that encompass them. The state park is

Whereas the Thompson Chain of Lakes does not have a solution to Glacier’s Going-to-the-Solar Street or tall mountains, the state park affords a bona fide nature retreat. It’s a peaceable escape, away from the extra touristy parks in Montana, like its two nationwide parks. The Thompson Chain of Lakes has accessible shores, linked to undeveloped forests, the place you’ll be able to take pleasure in totally different out of doors actions. Your complete space is a panoramic labyrinth of reflective waterways and rugged nature.

With so many lakes to select from, every providing totally different sights and scenes, you may probably expertise an unique environment when hanging out on the Thompson Chain of Lakes. Regardless of being one of the in style state parks in Montana, it solely receives over 134,000 guests a 12 months—rather a lot much less busy than Glacier. You are then assured a calming time by the lake, an undisturbed hike, and an general stress-free nature getaway.

Issues To Do In Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, Montana

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Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park is a hidden gem for a variety of water sports activities past swimming. Lots of the 18 lakes within the space, corresponding to McGregor, Decrease Thompson, Horseshoe, and Loon, have boat ramps for public use. These lakes are additionally well-known fishing spots. However for introverts preferring some quiet however scenic fishing, go for Little McGregor or different smaller lakes like Bootjack Lake (solely 12 acres). Trout, yellow perch, Kokanee salmon, and bass are among the many numerous catches within the state park.

The primitive forests of Thompson Chain of Lakes are additionally nice for some land recreation, together with hikes. However one thing Glacier has that the state park does not is thrilling hikes. Whereas getting across the space is usually by means of mountain climbing, given the tough terrain, the park does not actually have formal trails. It has shore walks as an alternative, which is good for households who’ve children, even those that merely need to concentrate on chilling by the water.

Even in the event you’re not massive on out of doors actions, you’ll be able to merely take pleasure in some wildlife viewing. Like Glacier, the world is a habitat for deer, elk, black and grizzly bears, in addition to a number of species of birds, amphibians, and fish. Households and different teams can even arrange a picnic in designated areas, that are sometimes near boat ramps and different amenities like loos.

Lastly, in the event you really feel like extending the journey, the state park has 83 rustic campsites and eight group campsites accessible. As the inside roads of the Thompson Chain of Lakes are largely unpaved, RVs and different bigger campers are higher off on the 17-acre Logan State Park, which can also be inside the Thompson Chain of Lakes, proper on the north shore of the Center Thompson Lake. Sure, there’s a small state park inside the Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park.

Finest Time To Go to Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park

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One of the best time to go to Montana’s Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park relies upon totally on the vibe you are searching for. Summer time is the preferred season within the park as a result of nice heat climate and complete entry to water actions. Whereas you do not have to fret about excessive crowds there, spring and fall see far fewer guests, and the surroundings is simply as vibrant. Fall affords a comfortable go to, with its dreamy foliage colours. You additionally get comfy temperatures for prolonged forest explorations.

Spring, then again, is barely much less predictable when it comes to climate situations. Throughout this time, the roads and trails should still be muddy, however anglers might not thoughts, as it is the prime time for trout fishing. Lastly, it may be difficult to entry the state park throughout winter. Nonetheless, some might discover the solitude price it, in addition to the alternatives for ice fishing, in addition to snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing across the space.

Montana’s Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park is a kind of locations you come to with family and friends for some bonding time. The calm lakes, serene forests, and abundance of laid-back actions create the proper setting for such group holidays. It is also rather a lot cheaper than Glacier Nationwide Park, whose admission charges begin at $20. So, in the event you’re searching for a budget-friendly, adventure-packed, uncrowded, but accessible retreat in Montana, head out to Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park.