Changing Leaves And Wildlife Await You On These 5 Scenic Fall Hikes In Montana
Before most of our beautiful state becomes blanketed in snow, we’ve got a narrow but magnificent window of time for some nice autumn hiking. This is the time before both humans and wildlife tend to hibernate (or fly south) for the winter, so take advantage and spend the next few weekends exploring the great outdoors. These trails all offer stunning fall colors, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some local critters.
Located near Hamilton, Blodgett Canyon is a stunning — and fairly easy to navigate — hike. There are several canyon trails, but the most popular one is 8 miles in length (in and out) and leads to a tranquil waterfall. And in early October, the colors are especially amazing.
Sluice Boxes State Park is an underrated treasure, nestled in the Belt Creek Canyon near Great Falls. And with vibrant orange and yellow foliage set against green pine trees, autumn is the perfect time to visit and hike the 2.8-mile trail.
The leaves are already starting to change at Glacier National Park and the Grinnell Lake Trail is the perfect place to enjoy them. Although it's a 7-mile loop, the trail is easy to accomplish in a day, and if you're lucky, you just might see a moose or some deer.
Located in Custer National Forest near the tiny town of Nye, the Sioux Charley Lake Trail is easy to follow and just the right amount of challenging. The 6-mile stretch is popular for birdwatching in the spring and summer, but this time of year, you're more likely to see colorful leaves.
Located near Darby, this short and sweet 2.5-mile hike is nice and vigorous. Keep an eye out for deer and elk as you head toward the picturesque lake (and wear your orange, as hunters use this trail as well).
Do you enjoy hiking in the fall? For a nice, easy nature walk, check out the Ousel Falls Trail near Big Sky.
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