Oldman Lake

Overview

Oldman Lake is a quiet, high-country tarn tucked into a dramatic cirque below Pitamakan Pass, framed by Mount Morgan and the horn of Flinsch Peak. It feels remote without being unreachable, making it a sweet payoff for hikers who want solitude and big-mountain scenery without committing to the park’s longest routes.

The Hike In

Most people reach the lake from Two Medicine via the North Shore Trailhead. Expect roughly 12.8–13.2 miles round trip with about 1,850–2,073 feet of gain—solidly a hard day hike for most. The path follows Dry Fork, passes a few junctions, and then swings into the cirque. Early in the season, you may find lingering snow near the top and higher creeks running high; only some crossings are bridged, so plan accordingly. Above treeline, wind can be a real factor, especially around Pitamakan.

What You’ll See

This is textbook Glacier geology: a U-shaped valley, arêtes, and a tarn nestled in a steep-walled bowl. You’ll notice striking red and green layers of ancient Belt Supergroup rock, with Flinsch Peak’s sharp horn looming above the shoreline. The lakeshore is inviting for lunch, lounging, and—when conditions and regulations allow—casting a line along accessible banks.

Camping & Logistics

A designated backcountry campground sits just off the lake with four individual campsites, a vault toilet, and a metal bear-hang frame (bring your own rope). Backcountry permits are required for overnights. There’s typically a bathroom at/near the trailhead in the Two Medicine campground area, but don’t count on cell service. Bring plenty of water and a filter; there are no potable taps on the trail.

Wildlife & Safety

Bears (both species) and moose are regularly reported along this corridor. Huckleberry patches can draw bears in late summer. Make noise in brushy sections and around blind turns, carry bear spray, and use proper food storage at camp. Give wildlife plenty of space.

Extend the Adventure

If you have gas in the tank, tack on about 1.5 miles and roughly 880 feet of climbing from the lake up to Pitamakan Pass for sweeping views. Strong hikers sometimes link the bigger Dawson–Pitamakan loop, but it’s long, exposed, and not something to underestimate.

Best Time to Visit

June through September is prime. Early season can bring snow on upper miles, and creek crossings may be splashy during runoff. Winds tend to build as the day goes on, so start early to beat both gusts and afternoon thunderstorms and to give yourself time to linger at the lake.

Quick Essentials

Dogs aren’t allowed on this backcountry trail. A park entry fee is required. Cell coverage is unreliable to nonexistent, so download maps ahead of time.