A worthwhile journey

By MIKE RICHESON

Bigfork Eagle

Traveling to the Turquoise Lake trail head from Bigfork takes a while - almost two hours. With the Jewel Basin and the entire Swan Range to play in, why drive 60 miles for a hike in the Missions?

The destination is spectacular.

Turquoise Lake is tucked in below Mount Shoemaker, Mountaineer Peak and Daughter of the Sun Mountain near the south end of the Mission Mountain Wilderness. The remnants of Sunrise and Mountaineer glaciers feed the lake through a series of waterfalls that cascade down sheer rock faces.

The waterfalls continue as Turquoise Lake feeds into Lace Lake, which feeds into Glacier Lake. Throughout the six-mile hike, you can see these rushing connections racing downhill.

Trail No. 690 will actually take you to numerous lakes in the area. You can pick from Glacier Lake, Heart Lake, Crescent Lake, Island Lake, Lagoon Lake, Lace Lake or Turquoise Lake.

Glacier Lake is just a mile from the parking area and is frequented by those looking for an easy fishing trip. The lake is big and beautiful, but don't fall into the temptation of stopping for the day. Turquoise Lake is another five miles up the trail, but the inclines are moderate, and a brisk pace will put you there in about two hours.

The well-marked trail makes numerous switchbacks as it climbs through dense forest, talus slopes (where you can spot pikas) and giant rock slabs. It's easy to lose the trail near the top when the exposed rock doesn't record foot prints, but by then Turquoise and Lace Lakes are in sight and are easy to find.

Looking up at the peaks, glaciers and waterfalls is overwhelming. Turquoise Lake is the most astounding transparent blue there is, and the cool crisp water is perfect for swimming and fishing.

If you have the time, bring the tent and make this trip an overnighter. There is plenty to explore, and the countless patches of huckleberries will keep you busy.

The area certainly has big game, but the hike is popular. If you do manage to see a bear, an elk or even a deer, count yourself lucky. There are, however, plenty of smaller creatures to observe. Red squirrels, butterflies, mountain birds and pikas are always close by.