Backpack to Cosley Lake

Browning, Montana

Save

View all 7 photos

All 7 photos

Save Review Directions Add Photo

Details

Distance

27.2 miles

Elevation Gain

475 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Angela Crampton

This hike makes for a nice stop on a backpacking circuit through Glacier's backcountry, or for just one overnight jaunt when all the popular permits are taken. With minimal elevation gain, the trail takes you through valleys and across bridges, with mountain walls towering above, in the distance.

The hike goes through different wooded areas, open fields, and passes by the ranger's ranch. In no time, you will be able to see the aqua blue colors of Cosley Lake, as you approach the campground for the night.

The campground has pit toilets and a bear bag hanging station, along with a cooking area and 4 flat camp spots with lake access. Dare to take a plunge in the lake’s cool waters, and cleanse your sweaty skin as the sun sets behind the mountains, and the moon and stars shine vibrantly.

Be aware that deer like to graze around the campground, so try to avoid spooking them on your nightly bathroom break. And don’t forget, Leave no Trace.

For more pictures and information, check out my full blog wrap-up of hiking to Cosley Lake.

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Camping

Photography

Backpacking

Hiking

Bathrooms

Lake

Picnic Area

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Backpack to Cosley Lake Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Backpack to the Foot of Glenns Lake

Starting from the Chief Mountain Parking Area, take the trail to the left of the bathrooms at the end of the parking lot (left of the bathrooms if you are facing the bathrooms and the main road is to your right). You will quickly hike to a wooden kiosk. Read this kiosk for any pertinent information about the area such as trail warnings or wildlife warnings (you should be informed when you pick ...

Hike to Crypt Lake

The hike begins with a gradual climb through shaded forest, which thins as you progress into the hanging valley. Along the way, you will pass by three amazing waterfalls: Twin Falls at 3.5km (2 mi), Burnt Rock Falls at 5.6km (3.5 mi) and the 600ft Crypt Falls at 8km (5 mi). There is also a 1km (0.6 mi) side hike for Hell Roaring Falls. It is recommended to take this path on the way back to ensu...

Hike Bear's Hump, Waterton Lakes NP

The trailhead is located at the Visitor Center of Waterton Lakes National Park. The trail is very well maintained, but know that the elevation gain is quick - in less than a mile you gain 738 ft. Roundtrip is 1.7 miles and is totally worth the short but strenuous hike.When you reach the top there is an area with a bench to rest and eat snacks or lunch. Make sure to bring a water bottle or two. ...

Stargaze at the Top of Bear's Hump

Bear's Hump is one of the shortest hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park. Fortunately, it also offers one of, if not the best, views of the small mountain town of Waterton and surrounding peaks. At 2.8 kilometres and 200 meters of elevation gain round trip, this hike can be done in about an hour with family. If you are one to push yourself on hikes, then it can easily be done in about 45 min...

Explore Cameron Falls

Located on the west side of Waterton townsite in Waterton Lakes National Park is the iconic waterfall Cameron Falls. Probably one of the most photographed waterfalls in Waterton due to its accessibility The waterfall is practically right off of the road/bridge with easy parking right next to it. There are benches to sit and enjoy the scenery which really adds to the experience of Waterton. This...

Backpack to Poia Lake, Glacier NP

Located in Many Glacier, the Red Gap Pass trail begins at the Apikuni Falls Trailhead located east of the Many Glacier Lodge (if you're looking to check out the falls before your hike, check out Hike to Apikuni Falls at Glacier National Park). The trail starts at a gradual incline and continue this way along the Swiftcurrent Ridge for the first three miles of the hike. The incline is mild, so i...