Explore Montana: Lake Como
SCHOOL IS OUT FOR THE SUMMER, AND WE ARE READY FOR ADVENTURE. WE’LL BE FEATURING OUR LOCAL TIPS AND GUIDES TO SOME OF THE GREAT ACTIVITIES AND NEARBY ADVENTURES FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES.
My son never leaves home without his trusty snorkel!
You know how someone who is confined makes tally marks on the wall to count the days until they are free? Well, I do that to keep track of how long it’s been since I’ve visited Lake Como.
I exaggerate, but only barely. Lake Como is perfect in all seasons, but in the summer it is one of our family’s favorite spots to relax, splash around, cool off, and generally recreate. Located about an hour and a half past Missoula, Lake Como is a straight shot south on Highway 93. Head about 20 miles south of Hamilton and then turn right on Lake Como Road.
The defining feature is, of course, the beach and crystal clear water, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks. The beach is fairly small, but there’s still plenty of room to social distance. I like to pull a camping chair pretty close to the shore to watch my kids while they splash around in the water or build sandcastles with the gritty sand and some sandcastle molds.
If we ever get bored from all the relaxing, Lake Como has plenty of places to explore. There is a paved trail you can access if you go past the beach parking area, past Wood's Cabin, which you can rent, and park at the trailhead. The paved trail is easy to navigate and is stroller and wheelchair friendly; there are plenty of places to stop and take in the views. The paved part ends, but more ambitious hikers can make their way around the lake.
Kayaks, paddle boards, floating are also welcome at Como from the beach area. Motorized boats can launch across the lake at the boat launch area.
Because Como is a small lake, I feel like I should issue this warning: It dries up fairly quickly in hot years. Last year, I visited Lake Como in mid-August only to find that the water level was so low the boat launch had been removed.
You’ll need to pay a $5 parking pass or, if you’re planning to be a frequent visitor, you can pick up a season-use pass at any Forest Service location. Tent and RV camping are also available. $16 per night per campsite (water/electricity included). Fee includes 1 day use exempt pass to be obtained from the camp host. Passes must be displayed in vehicle when accessing other parts of the recreation area.
