Lake Five

Environmental bellwether: cold, clear water with low plankton; highly sensitive to pollutants

Environmental bellwether: cold, clear water with low plankton; pollutant sensitivity

From Whitefish, MT, drive east on US-2, then turn onto Lake Five Road and follow it to Paul’s Memorial Fishing Access. The viewing dock at Paul’s Memorial gives lakefront views, and the Lake Five Resort sits on the shore. The lake’s coordinates are 48°29′N 113°59′W. Public access to the lake is via Paul’s Memorial Fishing Access and requires a Montana Conservation Pass or a valid hunting or fishing license. Parking is available at Lake Five Resort and at Paul’s Memorial Fishing Access; specific capacity isn’t published, and parking can be tight during peak Glacier National Park periods.

No designated Lake Five trailheads; near Glacier National Park's broader trail network

Nearby Glacier National Park trails; no direct Lake Five water-to-trail link

Paul’s Memorial Fishing Access dock; Lake Five Resort lakefront

Golden hour sunsets from the lakeshore; dock vantage with mountain backdrop; lakefront cabins at the resort

Dock at Paul’s Memorial; Lake Five Resort lakefront; shorelines at sunset

Kokanee salmon, rainbow trout stocked; mule deer, marmots, varied birds; bears frequent nearby areas

Mountain weather with rapid changes; afternoon thunderstorms possible; fire restrictions in dry seasons

Glacier National Park, Lake McDonald, Flathead River, Flathead National Forest

Nearest groceries in Whitefish; Lake Five Resort services; Paul’s Memorial facilities

Partial; viewing via Paul’s Memorial Fishing Access; Lake Five itself not detailed

Bear spray recommended; keep children close to water; vault toilets available

Paul's Memorial Fishing Access; Lake Five Resort; Whitefish amenities nearby