These 9 Nature Hikes Will Make You Fall Even More In Love With Montana
There’s no doubt that the Treasure State is an outdoor lover’s paradise, and the best hikes in Montana showcase our state’s finest natural beauty. We’re lucky enough to have hundreds of amazing trails scattered throughout the state, and the following are a few that are so full of stunning scenery, they’ll make you especially thankful to be a Montanan.
This gorgeous six-mile trail is located just north of Bozeman. The hike takes you through a nice shaded forest and ends with an incredible two-mile overlook. Explore this area in the spring when it is covered in wildflowers.
You'll see a little bit of everything on this 4.7-mile trail near Gallatin Gateway including lush forest, rolling hills, and wide, open spaces. It's accessible year-round, but it's especially stunning in late spring because of the wildflowers.
From the fields of wildflowers to the amazing overlook, this Stillwater State Forest trail is incredible. The entire thing is about 18 miles long, but you have plenty of options to break off and take shorter paths like the Lion Mountain Trail.
You will find this 13-mile trail in Glacier National Park near Polebridge. This is a terrific trail if you want to spend a weekend backpacking through the forest and surrounding yourself with Montana's natural beauty. This scenic hiking trail in Montana is rated moderate and you will climb more than 2,500 feet if you complete the entire hike.
The Flathead National Forest holds some of the best hikes in Montana and the Marion Lake Trail is no exception. It's a 4.5-mile moderately challenging loop and the fishing at Marion Lake can be quite good.
The Scenic Point Trail is definitely one of Glacier National Park's most challenging hikes, so attempt it only if you're a seasoned hiker (and take lots of water). The 7.5-mile trek takes you past Apostocki Falls and up a steep climb but just look at this rewarding view. However, if you are looking for a trail that is a little easier in this park but still quite beautiful, consider the Trail of the Cedars Trail.
The Beehive Creek Trail is a quick, easy 1.6-mile path located near Ennis. It is peaceful and relaxing with plenty of wildflowers and natural beauty.
We may be a bit biased, but we think Montana has the best hiking trails in the country. Just look at this beautiful list. What do you think are the best hikes in Montana? Did your favorites make our list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Address: Custer National Forest, Montana 59317, USA
Address: Whitefish Trail, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA
Address: Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
Address: Marion Lake, Montana 59916, USA
Address: Glacier National Park, Montana, USA
Address: Trout Creek Canyon, Montana 59602, USA
Address: Ennis, MT 59729, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Best hikes in Montana
April 26, 2022
Courtnie Erickson
What are some of the best scenic hikes in Montana?
We love to help you find the best hiking trails near me in Montana. However, it can be a tough job as there are dozens of incredible and scenic hikes that are just waiting to be explored. One of our favorite scenic hikes in Montana is the Grinnel Lake Trail in Glacier National Park. This is one of the national park’s most popular trails and for good reason. Not only is this trail gorgeous, but the end views are absolutely incredible. Just make sure you are prepared physically and mentally as this is a 7.1-mile trail and will take quite a bit of time to complete.
What are some easy hikes in Montana?
Some days, you may want to go on a hike but you don’t have the time or energy. On these days, don’t worry! There are several easy hikes that are perfect for a fast afternoon adventure. Check out the Running Eagle Falls Trail, also in Glacier National Park. This kid-friendly hiking trail is just over 0.5-miles long and takes you to a beautiful waterfall.
If you are looking for an easy trail that is just a little longer, consider the Grotto Falls Trail. This trail is located near Bozeman and is approximately 2.4 miles. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of forests, cliffs, and mountains. Plus, the waterfall at the end is spectacular. This is a waterfall hike in Montana that you definitely will not want to miss.
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.
