The Unrivaled Canyon Hike In Montana Everyone Should Take At Least Once

Hiking season may be winding down in Montana, but it won’t be long before we’re back on the trails again. Blodgett Canyon, which is named for an area settler named Joseph Blodgett, is considered to be the most picturesque canyon in the Bitterroot National Forest. And it happens to have a beautiful trail that takes you straight to a waterfall.

The Blodgett Canyon Trail is about 7 miles out and back.

The trail itself is considered easy and is good for all skill levels.

To reach the trail from Hamilton, drive west on Main Street until you reach the bridge over the Bitterroot River.

Turn right on Ricketts Road, then take a left on Blodgett Camp Road. After about a mile and a half, you’ll find the Blodgett Creek Campground and Trailhead. There are two parking lots, one of which is the Blodgett Creek Campground lot.

The hike to the falls is about 3.5 miles, and it’s full of gorgeous scenery.

The trail is nice and well-maintained, though it does get narrow in parts.

The canyon was carved out by ice age glaciers, which left behind U-shaped valleys and carved granite mountains, cliffs and cirques.

And you’ll see them all.

Take some time to relax by the waterfall.

It’s relaxing and beautiful. And if you're up for walking about 30 minutes further, you'll find a second waterfall.

This area is also known for its wildlife.

Depending on the time of year, you might see elk, mule deer or bighorn sheep.

The Blodgett Canyon trail is one of the more scenic hikes you can take in Montana. Here are some other trails that lead you to breathtaking places.