Montana’s diverse landscapes, from soaring peaks to lush valleys, offer some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the United States. Whether you’re seeking jaw-dropping glacier views, serene alpine lakes, or cascading waterfalls, Montana has it all. Below, we explore the 10 best hiking trails that should be on every outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list.
1. Grinnell Glacier Trail (Glacier National Park)
- Distance: 10.3 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Highlights: Glacier views, alpine meadows, and stunning lakes.
Grinnell Glacier Trail is one of the most iconic hikes in Glacier National Park, offering breathtaking views of Grinnell Glacier and its surrounding pristine wilderness. The trail winds through lush alpine meadows, past turquoise lakes, and rewards hikers with a close-up view of the glacier. Along the way, you’ll likely spot wildlife like bighorn sheep and bears. While the hike is challenging, the dramatic scenery makes every step worth it.
2. Highline Trail (Glacier National Park)
- Distance: 11.8 miles (point-to-point)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Jaw-dropping cliff-side views, wildflowers, and wildlife.
The Highline Trail is famous for its breathtaking panoramic views and follows the Continental Divide along a dramatic cliffside. Starting at Logan Pass, the trail offers an unforgettable experience with its wildflower-filled meadows, stunning ridgelines, and frequent wildlife sightings, including mountain goats and marmots. Though the drop-offs can be a bit unnerving for some, the trail is well-maintained and accessible for hikers of various experience levels.
3. Avalanche Lake Trail (Glacier National Park)
- Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Dense forests, stunning lake views, and waterfalls.
Avalanche Lake Trail is a perfect family-friendly hike in Glacier National Park. The trail begins in a dense forest filled with towering trees and eventually opens up to breathtaking views of Avalanche Lake, surrounded by cascading waterfalls from the surrounding cliffs. The relatively short distance and moderate difficulty make this a popular trail for all ages.
4. The Beaten Path (Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness)
- Distance: 26 miles (point-to-point)
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highlights: Alpine lakes, waterfalls, and remote wilderness.
For seasoned hikers and backpackers, The Beaten Path in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness is an incredible multi-day adventure. This trail showcases Montana’s remote beauty with countless alpine lakes, stunning waterfalls, and towering mountain peaks. With a total distance of 26 miles, the trek offers solitude and serenity in one of Montana’s most pristine wilderness areas.
5. Pine Creek Lake Trail (Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness)
- Distance: 10 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highlights: Alpine lake, rugged peaks.
Pine Creek Lake Trail is a challenging hike with steep inclines that reward you with a spectacular alpine lake surrounded by craggy, snow-capped peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass cascading waterfalls and dense forests. While the ascent is demanding, the sight of the crystal-clear Pine Creek Lake nestled among the mountains makes it all worthwhile.
6. Sacagawea Peak (Bridger Mountains)
- Distance: 4.2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
- Highlights: Panoramic views of the Gallatin Valley.
Sacagawea Peak is one of the tallest peaks in the Bridger Range and offers a steep but rewarding hike. The trail takes you through alpine meadows before reaching the summit, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Gallatin Valley. The relatively short distance makes this a great option for hikers looking for a rewarding challenge without an all-day commitment.
7. Ousel Falls Trail (Big Sky)
- Distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Beautiful waterfall, family-friendly.
Ousel Falls Trail is a short, easy hike perfect for families and those looking for a quick outdoor escape near Big Sky. The well-maintained path winds through a forest before arriving at the scenic Ousel Falls, where you can enjoy the soothing sound of water crashing into the rocks below. This trail is ideal for beginners or anyone seeking a peaceful nature walk.
8. Hyalite Lake Trail (Gallatin National Forest)
- Distance: 11 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Forests, waterfalls, alpine lake.
Hyalite Lake Trail is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This moderate hike leads through beautiful forests, past waterfalls, and ends at a serene alpine lake. Hyalite Lake is a great destination for both day hikers and those looking to spend the night camping. The surrounding peaks and wilderness make this a peaceful retreat into nature.
9. Mount Sentinel “M” Trail (Missoula)
- Distance: 1.9 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Iconic “M” on the mountain, views of Missoula.
The Mount Sentinel “M” Trail is a short but steep hike that’s popular with Missoula locals and visitors alike. The trail zigzags up the side of Mount Sentinel to a large “M” that represents the University of Montana. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Missoula and the surrounding valley. It’s a quick hike but a perfect way to see the town from above.
10. Hidden Lake Overlook (Glacier National Park)
- Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Mountain goats, stunning lake views.
Hidden Lake Overlook is another must-do trail in Glacier National Park. This moderate hike offers some of the best views in the park, leading to a spectacular overlook of Hidden Lake. Along the way, you might spot mountain goats and other wildlife grazing in the meadows. The combination of wildlife and scenery makes this one of the most popular trails in the park.
Montana is a paradise for hikers, offering a wide range of trails that cater to all skill levels, from easy waterfall hikes to challenging backcountry treks. Whether you're exploring the glacier-carved valleys of Glacier National Park or the remote wilderness of the Absaroka-Beartooth range, Montana’s trails offer some of the best hiking experiences in the country. Grab your boots, strap on your camera, and get ready to discover the natural beauty that awaits you on Montana’s trails!
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