Pros & cons
PROS
- Unsigned side path to Becker keeps crowds a notch lower than nearby high‑use lakes
- Optional extension toward Albino Lake delivers big views with little extra effort
CONS
- Early‑season creek ford can be knee‑deep and chilly
- Unmarked junction and braided paths can cause brief routefinding hiccups
- Short boulder/scree stretch near Becker can be awkward for some hikers
Island Lake Trailhead by Island Lake Campground off the Beartooth Highway; large lot and toilets, with easier parking on shoulder‑season weekdays.
Expect an early creek ford, an unsigned junction toward Becker/Albino, brief boulder/scree near Becker, potential grizzly encounters, fast‑changing high‑elevation weather, and occasional braided social trails.
Overview
This is a scenic, mostly gentle out‑and‑back from Island Lake to Becker Lake across the Beartooth Plateau’s lake‑studded country. Plan for about 8.0 miles total (round trip) with roughly 700–720 feet of gain. The grades are friendly, but you’re hiking above 9,000 feet, so the altitude adds effort.
What You’ll See
The route strings together classic Beartooth scenery: Island Lake to Night Lake, past small ponds and rock gardens, then into the Becker basin. Expect mirror‑calm water on still mornings, wildflower pockets in wetter spots, and a short spur to a pretty cascade near an unnamed lake. Views open wider if you continue beyond Becker toward Albino Lake and Lonesome Mountain.
Route Notes
Start at Island Lake Trailhead. Within the first 0.1–0.2 miles, there’s a real creek crossing—knee‑deep in early July; usually a simple rock‑hop by late summer. Past Night Lake, watch for an unmarked junction: a clear path heads east between two ponds toward Becker/Albino. If the trail begins a steep descent, you’ve drifted toward Beauty Lake—turn back to find the fork. Near Becker, a brief boulder/scree section adds a bit of spice and turns some parties around.
Difficulty, Time, and Conditions
Most hikers will spend 3–3.5 hours moving time, longer with photo breaks. Terrain is easy to moderate; expect occasional mud early season and light rock hopping between closely spaced lakes. Braided/social paths appear in places—bring a downloaded map to stay on line.
Wildlife, Geology, and Fishing
This is grizzly country—carry bear spray and stay alert. Anglers frequent these lakes for trout. Underfoot are some of North America’s oldest rocks: ancient Precambrian gneiss and granite that form the broad Beartooth Plateau, which is why the walking feels so open and lake‑rich.
Best Time to Hike
July through September is the sweet spot. Early July brings higher creek flows, lingering mud, and more bugs. By August–September the ford is easier, trails are drier, and weekday crowds thin. Mornings offer calmer water for reflections and better light on the lakes; afternoon storms can build fast at this elevation.
Logistics and Tips
Park at Island Lake Campground/Trailhead off the Beartooth Highway; large lot and toilets reported. Trekking poles help at the ford and on the short talus. Waterproof footwear or camp sandals are handy in July. Dogs are common here; mind the ford and keep wildlife in mind. If you want a shorter option, turn around at Night Lake for a 2.5–3 mile sampler.
Where it starts
45.0036, -109.5147Wildlife on this trail
Near Becker Lake Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayGlacier Lake TrailShort, steep climb to a jewel-toned alpine lake off Beartooth HighwayChallenging · 4.4 mi · 3 hr
3.1 mi awayBeartooth Pass OverlookTop-of-the-world views at the highway’s 10,947‑ft high pointPullout · Parking
3.9 mi awayHellroaring Plateau TrailWind-scoured alpine stroll to lake overlooks if you earn the accessModerate · 5 mi · 4 hr
4 mi awayTwin LakesQuick pullout for alpine lakes and big viewsPullout · Parking
4 mi awayIsland LakeAlpine lake with boat ramp, trail access, and quiet high‑country vibeTrailhead · Parking
4.4 mi awayBeartooth Basin Summer Ski AreaNo‑frills summer turns on a steep alpine headwall
5.4 mi awayBeauty Lake TrailAlpine lakes out-and-back with a waterfall and big Beartooth viewsModerate · 4.4 mi · 2.3 hr
5.4 mi awayBeartooth Lake Loop TrailAlpine lake loop with creek fords and big Beartooth views.Moderate · 7.8 mi · 3.8 hr
