Upper Holland Lake Trail: Complete Hiking Guide

Upper Holland Lake sits at 6,100 feet in the Swan Mountains, offering a challenging but rewarding hike through pristine wilderness to a stunning alpine lake. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about hiking to Upper Holland Lake, including two different trailhead options and what to expect along the way.

Trail Overview

The hike to Upper Holland Lake is approximately 8 miles one-way with 2,000 feet of elevation gain, making it a strenuous full-day hike or overnight backpacking trip. The trail climbs steadily through old-growth forest, crosses multiple creek bridges, and delivers spectacular views of the Mission Mountains across the valley.

Quick Facts:

• Distance: 16 miles round trip (or 14.6 miles via loop option)
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,000-2,050 feet
• Difficulty: Strenuous
• Typical Duration: 7-9 hours round trip for day hiking
• Best Season: Late June through September
• Trail Surface: Well-maintained dirt trail with rocky sections

Two Trailhead Options

You have two choices for starting your Upper Holland Lake adventure, each with unique advantages.

Option 1: Holland Lake Campground Trailhead

This is the most popular starting point, located just past Holland Lake Lodge near the main campground.

Advantages:

• Well-marked trailhead with ample parking
• Restroom facilities available
• Passes by Holland Lake Falls (worth the short detour)
• Better maintained trail with clearer signage

Getting There: From Highway 83, turn east on Holland Lake Road and follow it 3.5 miles to the end. The trailhead is past Holland Lake Lodge on the right.

The trail from this direction follows the north shore of Holland Lake before climbing steadily through switchbacks. You’ll pass the spectacular Holland Lake Falls about 1.6 miles in—absolutely worth the short side trip if you haven’t visited before.

Option 2: Owl Creek Packer Trailhead (Trail #35)

This alternative trailhead offers a quieter, more challenging route via the Holland-Gordon Trail (#35).

Getting There: From Highway 83, turn east on Holland Lake Road. After 2.5 miles, turn right on Owl Loop Road #9558. Continue 0.5 miles and turn right on Road #10121 to the trailhead.

Important Details:

• Limited parking: Only 10-12 spots available
• Trail goes around the south side of Holland Lake
• Heavily used by outfitters and horse packers
• Trail #35 intersects with Trail #415, which leads to Upper Holland Lake

Note: This trailhead has an uphill-downhill timing restriction. Travel uphill before noon and downhill after noon to avoid conflicts with other stock users.

Which Route Should You Choose?

Both routes are beautiful and offer different perspectives of the area. Ideally, experienced hikers should try both eventually. For first-timers, we recommend the Holland Lake Campground trailhead for better facilities and clearer trail markers.

The Hike: What to Expect

First Two Miles: The Climb Begins

The trail starts with a series of steep switchbacks that gain most of your elevation in the first 2 miles. This section is challenging but well-shaded under ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western larch (tamarack) trees.

Expect to climb approximately 1,000 feet in this section. Take your time, bring plenty of water, and enjoy views of Holland Lake below as you ascend.

Miles 2-5: The Swan Front Traverse

After the initial climb, the trail levels out somewhat as it cuts along the cliffside of the Swan Range. This section delivers stunning views of the Mission Mountains across the valley and Holland Lake far below.

You’ll cross several creek bridges and may encounter light runoff through the trail, especially in early season. The path follows Holland Creek upstream, staying close to the water for much of this section.

Miles 5-8: Final Push to Upper Holland Lake

The last 3 miles continue climbing more gradually through pristine wilderness. You’ll pass through alpine meadows that burst with wildflowers in July and August.

Two notable creek crossings feature sturdy bridges, though water levels can be higher in early summer from snowmelt.

Upper Holland Lake

The lake sits in a spectacular cirque basin surrounded by towering peaks including Carmine Peak to the south and Waldbillig Mountain to the east. The crystal-clear water reflects the mountains, creating postcard-perfect views.

Backcountry Camping:

Several established backcountry campsites with stone fire rings are scattered around the north shore. The sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations required.

A basic pit toilet is available—nothing fancy, but appreciated after days in the backcountry. Campsites are well-spaced among trees, providing privacy and bear-safe food storage options.

Fishing:

Upper Holland Lake contains rainbow trout. Bring a lightweight fly rod if you’re planning to stay overnight. Standard Montana fishing regulations apply—you’ll need a valid Montana fishing license.

Important Trail Considerations

Horseback Traffic

This trail sees heavy use from outfitters and horse packers, especially during summer months. Always yield to horses:

• Step to the downhill side of the trail
• Stand quietly and let horses pass
• Don’t make sudden movements or loud noises
• Wait for all horses in the group to pass before continuing

Wildlife

You’re in grizzly and black bear country. Carry bear spray, make noise while hiking, and practice proper food storage if camping overnight.

Mosquitoes

Bring bug spray—mosquitoes can be aggressive, especially near the lake and in meadow sections. Peak mosquito season is late June through mid-August.

Water

While there are plenty of water sources along the trail, always filter or purify water before drinking. Giardia and other pathogens can be present even in pristine-looking streams.

Best Time to Hike

Late June – Early July: Trail is often still snowy at higher elevations. Upper Holland Lake may be partially frozen. Snowmelt creates rushing creeks and waterfalls.

Mid-July – August: Peak season with best weather and wildflowers. Expect more hikers and horse traffic. Mosquitoes are most active.

September – Early October: Excellent hiking with cooler temperatures, fewer bugs, and golden larch trees. Some years see early snow by late September.

Loop Option: Sapphire Lake Extension

Strong hikers can extend the trip to Sapphire Lake, creating a 14.6-mile loop. From Upper Holland Lake, the trail to Sapphire Lake gains another 1,500+ feet over 2.5 miles—a grueling but spectacular climb.

The loop descends via Holland Lookout Trail (#42), completing a challenging but rewarding circuit.

What to Bring

Day Hiking Essentials:

• 3+ liters of water per person
• High-energy snacks and lunch
• Bear spray
• First aid kit
• Navigation (map, compass, or GPS)
• Layers for changing weather
• Rain jacket
• Sun protection
• Headlamp (for late returns)
• Bug spray
• Trekking poles (helpful on steep sections)

Backpacking Additions:

• Lightweight tent
• Sleeping bag and pad
• Backpacking stove and food
• Water filter
• Bear canister or rope for food hanging
• Extra clothes
• Montana fishing license (if fishing)

Stay Nearby at Swan River Lodge

After conquering Upper Holland Lake, relax at Swan River Lodge Unit 7—just 5 minutes from the Holland Lake trailhead. Our comfortable vacation rental offers the perfect base camp for exploring Swan Valley’s incredible hiking.

Book your stay at swanvalleystay.com

Nearby Alternatives

If Upper Holland Lake seems too ambitious, consider these nearby hikes:

• Holland Lake Falls Trail – Easy 3.1-mile round trip
• Holland Lake Trail – Moderate shoreline hike
• Crystal Lake Trail – Moderate 7-mile round trip
• Jim Lake Trail – Moderate alpine lake hike