A Montana Mountain Town Is A Hidden Treasure For Fishing And Hiking Enthusiasts

Outdoor recreation, breathtaking scenery, and thrilling backpacking adventures await you in this undiscovered gem, a destination that's located just under nine miles south of the Canada-U.S. border in northwestern Montana. With gorgeous lakes, proximity to a top national park, and plenty of hiking trails, the welcoming mountain town of Eureka is an all-season playground for nature enthusiasts. Once inhabited by the Kootenai Native American tribe, Eureka also boasts a storied history as a logging center. You can learn more about the town's fascinating backstory at the Historical Village that's like taking a step back in time. 

Eureka means "I've found it" and that could certainly refer to everything in Big Sky Country. You'll agree when you head into town and views of the Tobacco Valley and Purcell Mountains are waiting to greet you. Known as the "town with the big heart," you'll be drawn to Eureka for its laid-back vibe and welcoming spirit. The nearest airport is Glacier National Park Airport (FCA), just 63 miles away. Eureka is also just 51 miles away from Whitefish — one of the must-visit spots in Montana. 

One of Eureka's main draws is its proximity to Lake Koocanusa, a reservoir spanning 90 miles between Montana and British Columbia. For anglers, Lake Koocanusa offers excellent fishing year-round (as long as you've got a valid Montana fishing license, of course). Highlights include kokanee salmon and the fabled Kamloops rainbow trout, and while you can cast a line from shore, the best catch awaits just a motorboat ride away. While you're waiting to reel in a big one, keep an eye out for eagles and hawks soaring overhead. If waiting for fish to bite isn't your idea of a good time, don't fret — the nearby Kootenai National Forest is the perfect choice for a day of trekking. Spanning over 2 million acres, this massive forest complex has no shortage of hiking trails for stretching your legs. One of the top tracks in the area is the Leigh Lake Trail. This short yet challenging 3-mile hike follows a steep ascent, rewarding trekkers with cascades and views over glassy Leigh Lake.

Eureka isn't lacking in activities when it comes to winter either. Head over to Whitefish to hit the slopes, with over 110 runs for experienced skiers and snowboarders and lessons for all ages and abilities for those just starting out. If you're keen to stay more local, the Tobacco Valley Nordic Club maintains several nearby cross-country ski trails, including Virginia Hills, Edna Creek, and the Foothills. Regardless of the season, if you're looking to see the best of the West by car, Eureka isn't far from an iconic highway considered the most scenic road trip in America. 

Eureka's location gives you easy access to Glacier National Park, less than a two-hour drive away with its ancient ice formations and famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Be sure to check out the Hidden Lake Nature Trail, one of the best hikes in Glacier for wildlife viewing. Just under 3 miles long, this track is ideal for spotting Montana classics like mountain goats, marmots, wolverines, and grizzly bears (although hopefully just from a distance for the latter two). 

For more natural wonders but without the crowds, venture a bit further afield to Lolo National Forest near Missoula, Montana. Here you'll find majestic mountain views, alpine lakes, and thick green forests for hiking and other outdoor recreation. You can explore the Lolo Trail as Lewis and Clark once did, taking in the exquisite scenery and diverse ecosystems. Much like the explorers, you'll find the same celebration in discovery upon completing your hike — eureka!