This summer has been a scorcher in Montana, and residents and visitors have been flocking to every river, lake, and reservoir they can find.

While iconic spots like Flathead Lake grab national headlines, there are several beautiful locations in Big Sky Country that often fly under the radar. Sometimes you need to take the road less traveled to discover the true wonders on the Treasure State.

Summer will be gone before you know it, and the opportunity to access the state’s mountain lakes is fading fast. Take advantage of the warm weather while you can and make the most of the long days.

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Tucked away in the Bridger Canyon near Bozeman, Fairy Lake remains one of the state's best-kept secrets. It's a hidden oasis that attracts many visitors during the summer.

The road to Fairy Lake has been closed most of the summer due to road improvements, but it recently opened. If you plan to visit Fairy Lake before winter arrives, you need a capable vehicle. The road can be extremely rough at times.

From Bozeman, the drive takes about an hour, and you’ll definitely want a vehicle with decent clearance to navigate the rugged road leading up to the trailhead. It’s a small price to pay for the serenity that awaits. Pack your gear, hit the road, and savor these final, golden weeks of the season in the beautiful, pristine mountains of Montana.

If you've never been to Fairy Lake, right now is a great time to check it out.

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