Sypes Canyon In Montana Will Have Acres Of Wildflowers In Bloom This Spring

In Montana, winter sometimes comes long before the calendar says it does, and it tends to stay long past its welcome. Luckily, spring is officially on the horizon, and it won't be too long before Montana finally gets that memo. Spring is wildflower season in the Treasure State, and it's only a matter of time before Sypes Canyon will be covered by them. Hike the Sypes Canyon Trail near Bozeman and see for yourself.

Sypes Canyon lies just north of Bozeman, although you'll certainly feel lightyears away from civilization when you're here.

To reach it, follow Bozeman's Spring Hill Road to Sypes Canyon Road. Follow that road for about 3 miles. Veer right at the Y in the road, and you'll come to a parking area.

The Sypes Canyon Trail is a 6.2-mile hike that is ranked as moderate.

This means that, while it's not an overly challenging trek, it might be a bit too much for beginners.

The wildflowers start to bloom in April and continue to thrive through June.

For Gallatin County locals, these wildflowers are a sure sign of spring's arrival.

As soon as the snow melts, Glacier lilies and shooting stars (pictured here) start to pop up.

Lupine, larkspur, and arrowleaf balsamroot soon follow.

By late May, the entire 6.2-mile trail is typically covered in acres and acres of wildflowers.

Needless to say, this makes the steep climbs and rugged terrain much easier to endure.

In addition to the lovely wildflowers, the sweeping views make this trail a popular one.

The trail crosses several seasonal creeks before finishing off with beautiful views of the Gallatin Valley, the city of Bozeman, and several mountain ranges.

The Sypes Canyon Trail is open all year, but late spring is when it really thrives.

Add it to your list this year -- it will make spring's arrival that much sweeter.

Do you have a favorite spring hike in Montana?