Lake Como National Recreation Trail

The Lake Como National Recreation Trail #502 is 3.0 miles long. It begins at Road 1111 and ends at Trail #580. To do an "out and back" hike to the falls on this north shore trail, it is about 6 miles round trip. Or you can continue for the 7.1 mile loop around the lake.

This is an easy trail on the north side of Lake Como and is open to hiking and biking. The trail is paved for the first 1/4 mile. This hike offers spectacular views of Como Peaks, osprey, and wildflowers. Just beyond the junction of Trail #580 you will be rewarded by a beautiful waterfall. No horses are allowed on Trail #502. The Selway Bitterroot Wilderness boundary is located approximately 1/2 mile beyond the Lake.

Trail #502 joins with Trail #580 at the west end of Lake Como. Trail #580 is open for horseback travel. This trail provides a 7.1 mile loop around the lake. Trail #580 continues west beyond the lake accessing Elk Lake, 9 miles from the Wilderness boundary then on to Bell Lake on the Idaho side of the Divide.

Parking for mountain bikers is located below the spillway. Parking for hikers is located at Lake Como trailhead. Camping for RV's is located at Lake Como Campground, while the upper campground offers tent and smaller trailer campsites.

The trail is open for the following uses: Hiking and Mountain Biking.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Type

Standard/Terra Trail — A trail that has a surface consisting predominantly of the ground and that is designed and managed to accommodate use on that surface.

General Information

Contact Name: Darby Ranger District

Contact Phone: 406-821-3913

Darby Ranger Station administrative office in the winter.

Address: 712 N. Main Darby, MT 59829
Phone: 406-821-3913
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Trailhead/Starting Points

Trailhead is located near the entrance to the Lake Como Upper Campground. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, you will need a $5 parking pass.

Directions

From Darby, MT travel north for 4 miles on Highway 93. Turn west (left) onto Lake Como Rd. Follow for 3 miles turn north (right) to remain on Lake Como RD, follow for 0.7 miles and turn left and then an immediate right towards beach area. Continue 0.5 miles.

From Hamilton, MT travel south for 16 miles on Highway 93. Turn west (right) onto Lake Como Rd. Follow for 3 miles turn north (right) to remain on Lake Como RD, follow for 0.7 miles and turn left and then an immediate right towards beach area. Continue 0.5 miles.