Directions: From Clearwater Junction turn north on Highway 83 and travel approximately 6.4 miles. The first boat launch site is at the state park day use area on the west side of the highway. The second launch option is located approximately 3 miles north of state day use area. Look for a wide turnout on the left just before the end of the lake.
Latitude-Longitude: 47.05.590 / - 113.24.168
Elevation: 3,907 ft.
Lake size: 631 acres
Land ownership: National forest, state of Montana, Plum Creek Timber and private.
Facilities: The state day use area is open May 1st to Dec. 1st. The campground is open May 1st to Sept. 30th. The other launch site has no
facilities and is open year round. In winter this site is used by ice fishermen.
Boating regs: Standard boating regulations for the state of Montana.
How to launch: At the state day use area, launch off the concrete boat ramp or gravel beach next to the boat ramp. Launch off the dirt ramp at the second launch site north of the campground.
Description of paddle: Since this lake borders busy Highway 83, it doesn't fill the bill for a peaceful wilderness paddle. Circumnavigation of the lake is approximately 9 miles. Private cabins are scattered along the eastern shoreline. Legendary Lodge, a camp belonging to the Diocese of
Helena, sits at the south end of the lake and is used during the summer months. The University of Montana owns Sourdough Island about half way along the eastern shore. The quietest setting can be found at the north end of the lake. Paddlers may also make their way up the Clearwater River channel for a short distance. Bird life is abundant back in these channels.
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.
