12 Scenic Trails To Explore In Montana, One For Each Month Of The Year
If more hiking is on your to-do list this year we have some great trails to tackle. Hiking in Montana is incredible, and the hiking season lasts longer than you think. In fact, on some of the scenic trails in Montana, it’s possible to hike all year long.
We’ve compiled a list of 12 of the best hiking trails in Montana, one for each month of the year, to inspire you to lace up your boots and tackle some new territory. Feel free to create your own list or hike these trails anytime they’re open. Just make sure to be respectful and leave no trace.
Located near Bozeman, Sypes Canyon is fairly easily accessible to reach, even in the wintertime. At about six miles long, it isn't the best option for beginners, but moderate or advanced hikers will love seeing it covered in soft, white snow.
The Beehive Basin is one of Montana's most visually stunning areas, and winter is the perfect time to tackle this seven-mile trek, as long as you have snowshoes or cross-country skis. You'll also want to make sure you drive to the trailhead in a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
Grotto Falls is a much easier, much more accessible 2.4-mile trail located near the small town of Emigrant. In early March, the waterfall is almost always still frozen, and it's gorgeous.
Located near Livingston, Pine Creek Falls is a fairly easy 2.5-mile trail that is best enjoyed from spring to fall. And if you go early on a mid-April morning, you'll probably have it all to yourself.
Pine Creek Falls, Pine Creek Rd, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Camas Lake Trail is an underrated gem that's located near Hamilton. This 5.5-mile trek is best enjoyed in mid-spring, and once you've wrapped up your hike, you can enjoy an incredible sunset here.
Camas Lake, Montana 59936, USA
6. June: Avalanche Lake via the Trail of the Cedars
June is when the snow begins to melt at Glacier National Park (at least in some areas). And that's when we recommend hiking to the gorgeous Avalanche Lake, one of the park's main attractions. It may not be warm yet, but if you go in June, you'll beat the summer crowds.
Summer is wildflower season in Montana, and the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail at Glacier National Park is an amazing place to go to see them. This five-mile trail is bursting with vibrant blossoms from July - September.
The Lava Lake Trail, which is located near Bozeman, is one of the most popular hikes in Montana. That being said, it's popular for a reason ... the six-mile, round-trip hike has quite the visual reward at the halfway point.
This easy, popular, 2.5-mile hike has not one, but two stunning waterfalls along the way. And seeing it all when the leaves are just beginning to turn is magical.
This gorgeous trail is located about 86 miles west of Missoula, near the town of Superior. You don't have to hike the entire seven-mile trail to get glimpses of the amazing fall foliage, but you'll definitely want to. It's that gorgeous.
It wouldn't be a Montana bucket list without an old railroad hike. The Milwaukee Railroad Trail is located just a few miles south of Butte, spanning about four miles and offering a glimpse into our history.
Once you hike to a frozen waterfall, you'll want to see more. Celebrate winter's return with a trip to Palisade Falls, a mile-long trail that is great for all skill levels. While the hike is quite popular in the summertime, it's nice and peaceful all winter long.
Palisade Falls, Montana 59047, USA
Now that you have a list of some pretty amazing scenic trails in Montana, it’s time to plan that next hike. Which one of these trails will you hit first? Is one of your favorites on this list? Share a few inspirational stories so we can all get the hiking bug dancing like a bumble bee over a spring flower.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
The OIYS Visitor Center
More Montana hiking trails to get excited about
December 15, 2022
Chris Muras
What is the most beautiful hike in Montana?
You know what they say about beauty and the ole beholder… That being said, hiking in Montana is good for the soul because there are so many beautiful hikes in Montana. Here are a few beautiful Montana hikes that aren’t too challenging but have amazing views:
Read more about these scenic trails in Montana and see the amazing views you can look forward to here.
What is the longest trail in Montana?
The longest trail in Montana is the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDT). This fearsome trail stretches nearly 3,100 miles and starts at the U.S. Mexico border in southern New Mexico, stretching along the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana, before finally wrapping up at the Canadian border several states later. Montana can lay claim to the longest section of the trail with 820 miles running through the state.
It is a popular destination for dedicated hikers seeking an extreme challenge. Along its route are isolated trails passable only by foot or horseback, leading to stunning scenic vistas that rival some of North America’s most beautiful national parks. To conquer it would take anywhere from four to eight months of hike-camp-repeat trekking. It’s not for the faint of heart but if peace and serenity are what you seek then this trail should definitely be on your bucket list!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Montana In Your Inbox
Thank you! You'll receive your first newsletter soon!
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
