Otter Lake

Otter Lake

Cooke City, Carbon County, MT
0mi²
ft
Directions
Lake Information

Otter Lake, located in Carbon County, Montana, is a stunning 61.2-acre alpine lake nestled at an elevation of 9,790.8 feet. This pristine mountain lake offers an exceptional wilderness experience for hikers, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore one of Montana’s most remote and beautiful landscapes. Known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse fish species, Otter Lake is a true gem in the Beartooth Mountain range, offering solitude and natural beauty that few other locations can match. To access Otter Lake, hikers can take Trail #567 from Kersey Lake, a well-established trail that leads through the picturesque landscape of the Beartooth Wilderness. The trail offers stunning views as it winds through lush forests and meadows, providing glimpses of the surrounding peaks and valleys. From Kersey Lake, the trail continues to Russell Lake, where adventurers can then head east for approximately three miles to reach Otter Lake. The hike is moderately challenging, with the rugged terrain offering both beauty and a sense of adventure as you make your way through the wilderness. Otter Lake is set in an area of pristine wilderness, surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests. Its waters, cold and clear, reflect the stunning mountain scenery that surrounds it. The lake sits in a secluded basin, providing a peaceful and serene environment where visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature without the distractions of modern life. Whether you're fishing, hiking, or simply relaxing by the shore, the atmosphere of Otter Lake is one of tranquility and awe-inspiring natural beauty. The fishing at Otter Lake is excellent, making it a popular destination for anglers seeking to catch some of the area's most prized fish. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including arctic grayling, brook trout, and lake trout. These species thrive in the cold, clear waters of the lake, providing anglers with the chance to test their skills and enjoy a rewarding fishing experience. The lake’s diverse fish population, combined with its stunning setting, makes Otter Lake an ideal spot for both novice and experienced anglers alike. Wildlife in the area surrounding Otter Lake is abundant, and visitors may encounter a range of animals, from elk and deer to smaller creatures like squirrels and birds. The Beartooth Mountains are also home to a variety of bird species, making this area a great location for birdwatching. The peaceful environment of Otter Lake, coupled with the surrounding wilderness, makes it a prime spot for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The landscape is also dotted with wildflowers during the warmer months, adding vibrant colors to the stunning backdrop. Otter Lake is a remarkable destination for anyone seeking an authentic backcountry experience in Montana. With its breathtaking scenery, excellent fishing opportunities, and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Whether you are hiking the trails, fishing for lake trout, or simply enjoying the serenity of the mountains, Otter Lake offers an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful and remote parts of the Beartooth Wilderness.

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Current Conditions

33°F°
Feels like 24°F°
MostlyCloudy
Today's High
39°F°
Today's Low
24°F°

Water Temperature

°F
Updated: (Jan 1)
Sign in to contribute temps.

Current water temperature for Otter Lake is null°F.

Current Snapshot

Wind8 mph WNW (Gust 15 mph)
Pressure
30.05 inHg
Visibility12 mi
Humidity60%
Cloud Cover86%

Forecast: Tuesday, Apr 29

Day 1 of 9

Hourly Insights

7 AM
27°F°
10 AM
31°F°
1 PM
37°F°
4 PM
38°F°
7%

Temperature

High
39°F°
Low
24°F°

Precipitation

Chance24%
Amount2.9"
Typesnow

Wind

8mph
Avg Speed
Gusts up to
24mph
CalmModerateStrong
Max Speed12 mph

Sun, Moon & UV

Sunrise12:10 PM
Sunset2:22 AM
Moon PhasewaxingCrescent
Max UV Index6 (High)

Solunar Fishing Forecast

Action Rating
4/5

Todays action is rated a 4 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)

Major Times (Best)

8:43 PM - 11:13 PM

6:00 AM - 6:00 AM

Minor Times (Good)

12:28 PM - 1:58 PM

6:00 AM - 6:00 AM

Outlook for Tuesday at Otter Lake

Expect temperatures ranging from 24°F to 39°F. There's a 24% chance of snow, potentially bringing around 2.9" snow. Winds will be averaging 8 mph, with potential gusts reaching up to 24 mph. The maximum UV index will be 6 (High), so plan sun protection accordingly. For anglers, today's fishing action is rated 4/5 (Todays action is rated a 4 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). Look for the best bite times during the major periods around 8:43 PM and 6:00 AM, or try the minor windows near 12:28 PM and 6:00 AM for potential early morning or evening action. Check back for the latest conditions and forecasts for Otter Lake.

Lake Map Views

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Lake Information

Elevation
N/A
Area
0 mi²
Coordinates
45.055, -109.740

Weather Forecast

Tuesday

39°F
24°F

Wednesday

36°F
24°F

Thursday

41°F
22°F

Friday

50°F
26°F

Saturday

53°F
32°F

Sunday

51°F
35°F

Monday

39°F
30°F

Tuesday

42°F
30°F

Wednesday

46°F
32°F
Tuesday - 4/29/2025
39°F
24°F
12am
25°F
~°F
30.10 hPa
4 mph
W
G: 9 mph
2am
24°F
~°F
30.11 hPa
5 mph
W
G: 10 mph
4am
24°F
~°F
30.11 hPa
6 mph
W
G: 11 mph
6am
26°F
~°F
30.09 hPa
7 mph
W
G: 15 mph
8am
28°F
~°F
30.07 hPa
8 mph
W
G: 16 mph
10am
31°F
~°F
30.02 hPa
9 mph
WSW
G: 18 mph
12pm
35°F
~°F
29.94 hPa
10 mph
WSW
G: 19 mph
2pm
38°F
~°F
29.88 hPa
12 mph
W
G: 22 mph
4pm
38°F
~°F
29.85 hPa
11 mph
WSW
G: 24 mph
6pm
37°F
~°F
29.83 hPa
9 mph
WSW
G: 21 mph
8pm
34°F
~°F
29.84 hPa
7 mph
WSW
G: 18 mph
10pm
32°F
~°F
29.87 hPa
5 mph
WSW
G: 15 mph

Water Temperature History

Trends for Otter Lake

Current Temp

Sign in to view

Latest recorded surface temperature.

Lowest in Period

N/A

Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.

Average in Period

N/A

Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.

Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months

Surface temperature over the selected period.

Weather Forecast

Wind speed and pressure trends

Hourly Wind Forecast

Wind Direction

274°

Pressure

1019 mb

Cloud Cover

6%

Visibility

17 miles

Daily Pressure Forecast

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Frequently Asked Questions About Otter Lake

Get accurate, up-to-date information about conditions at Otter Lake.