Hike to Dickey Lake

*Parking for this hike is very limited, as the parking area can hold one, maybe two, vehicles. 

This 5.2 mile roundtrip hike begins near Essex, Montana, at 4,620 feet of elevation, and leads to a small, hidden lake nestled in the Great Bear Wilderness. Immediately after leaving the parking area, you will need to cross Dickey Creek. If you walk upstream 20 yards, there is a log lying across the river. It is not recommended to attempt walking across this log, however the water at this spot is shallow and makes for an easy crossing. After crossing the creek, bushwhack back to the main trail.

In the first mile, parts of the trail are covered in foliage, including stinging nettles, so full length pants are recommended. Throughout the first two miles, the brush along the edge of the trail is quite dense and is often above head height, so it is worth making plenty of noise to ward off the possible wandering bear. Over this period, the trail has a very mild grade, and you only gain about 700 feet of elevation. 

At mile 2.3, the trail begins to climb at a steep grade, and should you lose the trail under a lingering snowfield, continue towards the small scree field to the left of the waterfall to recover. The last three tenths of a mile is difficult, but pays off once you reach the small alpine lake. 

Here you can relax along the bank and have a snack, water, or just enjoy the view. As seen in the photos, the lake was frozen when I reached it at the end of June, but in the later season it may be worth a dip! Also, if interested, there is plenty of space to pitch a tent or hang a hammock.