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Hiking and camping are two of Montana’s top summer pastimes, so when we get a chance to combine them, we should take advantage of it. The Windy Mountain Loop does just that, starting at the Thain Creek Campground and winding in a scenic 8.8-mile loop through the Highwood Mountains.

The Thain Creek Campground is located in Highwood in Chouteau County.
Tracy Lords / alltrails.com
It's a small but scenic mountain campground with just 12 campsites, and it's the starting point for this beautiful trail.
The trail heads north for 1,000 feet to a junction, where you'll go east for a 2.3-mile climb along Briggs Creek.
Tracy Lords / alltrails.com
During this stretch, keep a close eye out for views of Highwood Baldy, the tallest peak in the Highwood Mountains.
While you're welcome to hike this trail any time that it's accessible, summer is definitely the best season to make the trek.
Tracy Lords / alltrails.com
Nearly the entire loop is bursting with colorful wildflowers, which you'll see at every turn.

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After passing a small saddle at mile 2.5, you'll turn left onto Trail 454 and hike to Windy Mountain Pass.
Jim Stoner / alltrails.com
And there will be plenty of wildflowers along the way.
After Windy Mountain Pass, you'll enjoy a nice, slow 2.7-mile descent along Thain Creek.
Tracy Lords / alltrails.com
Make sure to check out the views from the top of the mountain - they're incredible.
This 8.8-mile trail is popular among hikers and bikers alike.
Ken Speidel / alltrails.com
However, its off-the-beaten-path location is unknown even to many Montanans, so unless you embark in the middle of a busy weekend, you should enjoy plenty of peace and quiet.
After your lengthy hike, you'll be more than happy to return to your campsite and relax at Thain Creek Campground.
Tracy Lords / alltrails.com
This is the ultimate getaway for anyone craving the peace and quiet of nature.

The Windy Mountain Loop trail is ranked as moderately difficult, so beginner hikers should take a seasoned pro with them. If you’re a total trail novice, start with one of these easier hikes for mere mortals.

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