The short answer
Quake Lake is about 105 miles (roughly 2 hours) from Bozeman, near West Yellowstone. On August 17, 1959, a powerful earthquake triggered a massive landslide that dammed the Madison River and formed the lake in weeks. A visitor center tells the story, and Hebgen Lake next door is a favorite for fishing and boating.
What to do
Top things to do at Quake Lake & Hebgen Lake
Earthquake Lake Visitor Center
Exhibits and views of the slide that killed 28 people and created the lake.
Ghost trees
Drowned trees still stand in the water, a striking photo stop.
Hebgen Lake
Big-water fishing, boating and campgrounds.
The Madison loop
Return via West Yellowstone and Big Sky for a full-circle day.
By van
Getting there in a van
Drive to Ennis, then south on US-287 along the Madison to Quake Lake. Continue to West Yellowstone and back up US-191 for a loop.
- US-287 along the Madison is open range in places — watch for cattle.
- The visitor center lot is roomy enough for full-size vans.
- A loop via Ennis and Big Sky is about 220 miles — plan a full day.
Pack list
What to bring to Quake Lake & Hebgen Lake
- Fishing license
- Binoculars
- Layers
- Lunch — services are sparse
FAQ
Quake Lake & Hebgen Lake: common questions
How was Quake Lake formed?
The 1959 Hebgen Lake earthquake caused a mountainside to collapse into the Madison River canyon, damming the river and creating Earthquake Lake.
Is the Quake Lake visitor center open year-round?
No, it operates seasonally in summer. Check Custer Gallatin National Forest for current hours.
Things to do here
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