Are dogs allowed on Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481)?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481) but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481)?

No, Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481) does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481)?

Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481) is rated difficult. It is 9.3 miles long with 1,286 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Is Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481) suitable for kids?

Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481) is not typically recommended for young children due to length, exposure, or technical terrain. Older kids with hiking experience may be fine — use your judgment based on your family's comfort level.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Montana trail conditions

Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481) route map

DifficultOut and Back

Helena National Forest/Montana

Heart Lake via Mainline Trail (#481)

Lincoln, Montana

9.3 mi

Distance

1,286 ft

Elev. Gain

Out & Back

Route Type

Difficult

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

A simple hike through the wilderness to a beautiful mountain lake is a perfect trail for anyone looking for a taste of Montana. Hikers take off from the Indian Meadows trail and go into the pine and aspen forests. The trail gradually climbs before the first junction with the Heart Lake Trail, where hikers can either head directly to the lake or continue onwards to the second junction. The Heart Lake Trail has campsites that are well-maintained, and plenty of fishing opportunities for hikers and backpackers.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

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Elevation Profile

Min:1,726 ft

Max:1,997 ft

493 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by United States Forest Service

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Managing agency

United States Forest Service
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Address:MT

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context