Directions: From Clearwater Junction turn north on Highway 83 and travel approximately 26 miles to the sign for Lake Alva. Follow the sign
through the campground to the boat launch.
Latitude-Longitude: 47.18.846 / -113.34.939
Elevation: 4,198 ft.
Lake size: 298 acres
Land ownership: National forest
Facilities: There is a large public boat launch and parking area at the northeast end of Lake Alva. There are also outhouses but no running water.
Boating regs: Standard boating regulations for the state of Montana.
How to launch: Launch from the concrete boat ramp, or from the gravel beaches on either side of the boat ramp.
Description of paddle: A circumnavigation of this lake is about 3.5 miles. At the north end of the lake is a grassy marsh which is good waterfowl-watching habitat. About half way down the lake is a small island which could serve as a break or lunch stop. The Clearwater River outlet is at the south end of the lake.
Potential issues: During summer, moderate to strong winds generally come up in the afternoon, and that can make the trip across the lake challenging and potentially dangerous. Also, summer thunderstorms can bring not only lightening but strong winds on the leading edge of the front. In July and August powerboats ply the lake from about 10 in the morning until dusk, potentially creating rough water conditions.
