CABINET DIVIDE TRAIL: UPPER CEDAR LAKE AROUND DOME MOUNTAIN

WESTERN MONTANA

Summary

Climb up and around Upper Cedar Lake for dazzling views overlooking the lake and subsequently wrapping around the backside of the slope and winding along Dome Mountain. Keep your eyes open for the many alpine lakes dotting the valleys.

Trail Stats

Mileage: 6.85 Miles RT

Total Elevation Gain: 1,375 ft

Toilet at trailhead: No

Sandwich Spots: Yes

Parking: At Cedar Creek Trailhead

Mileage/EG from Garmin Watch

After setting up our overnight camp along the pristine shores of Upper Cedar Lake, resting our feet and happily devouring lunch, we decided to continue our day’s adventure with hiking beyond our temporary lakeside home. Beginning our trek from the campsite, we headed north on the Cabinet Divide Trail. Our group of four merrily ditched our heavy overnight packs at camp, swapping in the gloriously lightweight daypacks over tired shoulders.

The trail skirts the north eastern side of the lake prior to heading away from the lake to the hills. Most of this lower section is open to the elements. There are minimal trees initially, meaning little to no shade. Unless you head uphill in a thunder storm with spotty rain like we did. Smartest idea? Maybe not. But we never did see a lightning bolt and the storm was not directly overhead. So up we went. It did stop drizzling on us. And the clouds provided some very nice shade.

As the trail gradually climbs, it returns alongside the lake, albeit significantly above the lake. Views continually improved the higher we climbed along the narrow path. Wildflowers dotted the hillside. For those who are fearful of heights, it may be a nerve wracking section but if you can, just appreciate the magnificence below.

After a bit, the trail dives behind a hill, wrapping along the backside where trees are significantly more plentiful. Not too far from here, Doug and I reached an impassable stretch due to snow the first time we ever ventured out here a couple of years ago. Luckily this time there was not a speck of snow hindering our passage.

Wrapping around the mountain we crossed over a bridge, covering a gap in the trail. Back in the campsite we met a gentleman who had assisted in building said bridge. He also said it ALWAYS rains at Cedar Lake. And he had been there many times. So I guess it raining on us both times I’ve been there is not so surprising.

The trail offers picturesque views of the surrounding mountains, small lakes hidden between hillsides and lots of rocks. Rock walls, boulders, old rock slides. We accidentally passed the unmarked trail up to Dome Mountain. Oops. In our defense it looked like a goat path heading straight up a rock slide. One of our counterparts had already tried out his inner billy goat by climbing the previous rocky hillside while seeking an overlook above Lake Cedar. Coming down is always the knee buster and listening to scree falling during his descent was mildly concerning as we could only see him a third of the time. He was more than fine.

Speaking of rocks, you’ll walk on quite a few on the backside. The trail switches between packed dirt and, well rock. Of all sizes. You pick, it’s up there. If you get tired of walking, there are innumerable places to pause, plop down and enjoy the majesty of your surroundings. Preferably with snacks. Life is better with snacks.

Overall the main trail is nicely maintained. Go as far as you want. Turn around when you want. Just remember if you left camp you have to return. And it’s just as many miles back down.