- Ennis Lake is accessible year round.
- The Lake is located 10 miles northeast of the town of Ennis.
- Ennis Lake is shallow allowing the water to be warmer than expected during the summer months.
- On the Lake and in the area, you can enjoy fishing, water sports, and wildlife watching.
Overview
Known by longtime locals as Meadow Lake ( the Forest Service renamed it long ago), Ennis Lake was formed in 1905 when Montana Power built a dam on the Madison River at the head of the Bear Trap Canyon. The lake is shallow -- an average of 8 feet deep; 20 feet at the deepest -- which means the water is warm, just right for water sports particularly in the morning before the wind comes up, and windsurfing in the windy afternoon.
Location/Directions
Ennis Lake is located northeast of the Town of Ennis.
From the town of Ennis, travel north along US highway 287, approximately 6.5 miles. At the McAllister Junction, turn right onto Ennis Lake Road and travel another three miles.
Contact Info
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks
Phone: 406-994-4042
E-mail: fwpgen@mt.gov
Seasons
Ennis Lake is accessible year round. Due to it shallow depth, the Lake freezes during the colder months and ice skating, ice fishing and other winter sports can be enjoyed both on its surface (with caution) and around the shore.
Activities
On the lake, you can enjoy fishing, water sports, camping, and wildlife watching.
- Swimming: Areas are marked off by floating buoys near the lake's Kobayashi Bay.
- Canoeing, Sailing, Kayaking: Boaters can enjoy a free run of the lake and entrance to the river with non-motorized boats, including canoes, sailboats, rowboats, kayaks and even inflatables.
- Fishing: Fish for Brown Trout, Mountain Whitefish, and Rainbow Trout. A fishing license is required.
- Camping: Meadow Lake Campground is primitive (with a vault toilet). It costs $7-12/night and is first-come first-serve. To access the campground, head east from McAllister, Montana on Ennis Lake Road. You'll run into the beach and campground. There is also an RV park nearby, but they do not allow tents. If you have an RV you can call Lake Shore Cabins & RV Park at (406) 682-4424.
