Find 5 Bucket-List-Level Views in Montana Without Needing To Be an Expert Hiker

If you have spent any time in Montana, you know how gorgeous it can be. From waterfalls and mountains to unique natural features, the Treasure State is home to scenery worthy of a spot on every bucket list. Fortunately, you don’t have to be an expert hiker to see these landscapes in person. The following are five of my favorite easy hikes in Montana, each offering extraordinary views.

1. Trail of the Cedars

• Location: Glacier National Park
• Distance: 0.7 miles

Trail of the Cedars is one of the best family-friendly hikes in Glacier National Park. This is a short loop trail with little elevation gain and a boardwalk path to follow. It’s a popular trail—this isn’t a hike if you are searching for peace and quiet in nature. But, along your way, you’ll experience inspiring scenery from thick forests and small waterfalls to bold and rugged mountains.

2. Ousel Falls Park Trail

• Location: Custer Gallatin National Forest, near Big Sky
• Distance: 1.4 miles

In less than 1.5 miles, you can see one of our favorite Montana waterfalls—Ousel Falls. As you walk to this waterfall, you’ll cross bridges, hike through forests, and come to overlooks with views that will make you fall in love with Montana all over again. The trail to this waterfall is well-maintained, wide, and easy to follow, making it easy for individuals of all ages to spend some time outdoors.

3. Blodgett Canyon Overlook Trail

• Location: Bitterroot National Forest, near Hamilton
• Distance: 2.9 miles

The Blodgett Canyon Overlook Trail is one of the longer trails on our list, but it’s also one of the most scenic. This hike is just under three miles long, has some elevation gain, and is rocky in areas, so you’ll want to watch your step. However, the views along your entire way will leave you speechless. Keep an eye out for wildlife, and give yourself plenty of time to stop and bask in Montana's natural beauty. I particularly love this hike in late summer when the trail is lined with wildflowers, and in the fall, when vibrant autumn colors transform the landscape.

4. Cap Rock Trail

• Location: Makoshika State Park
• Distance: 0.5 miles

This loop trail in Makoshika State Park is easy to follow, short, and unique. It is less than 0.5 miles long but features unique natural features, including a rock bridge, distinctive rock formations, and stunning overlooks. Wear sturdy shoes, as there are plenty of rocks to climb, but be aware that the terrain includes some inclines and steep drop-offs. If you plan to bring kids on the Cap Rock Trail, keep a close eye on them and be prepared to help them on a few climbs.

5. Fairy Lake

• Location: Custer Gallatin National Forest, near Bozeman
• Distance: 0.8 miles

I love Fairy Lake, a beautiful alpine lake just north of Bozeman. One of my favorite ways to view this area is on the Fairy Lake Trail, an easy loop that takes you around the entire body of water. You’ll walk next to towering pine trees, along the gorgeous shore, and into clearings where mountains stand boldly in front of you, creating a scene that looks more like a painting than real life. This trail is flat and less than one mile. However, be prepared to climb some stairs, and don't forget bug spray in the summer months.

Montana has views that inspire and mesmerize—just look at the scenery along the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park or the many natural features in Yellowstone National Park. Fortunately, to enjoy so many treasured scenes, long hikes aren’t needed. What other easy trails in Montana would you add to this list? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear from you.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.