Hikes in Montana
Montana is a state of big mountains, abundant game, clean rivers and incredible lakes. For travellers who make the journey, it is also a place to find solitude, as much of the state is still in the same condition it was 100 years ago, before it was heavily settled. We love Montana, and exploring the mountains on foot or ski, the lakes in canoe, and the rivers by kayak, is the best way to explore this state.
Montana is full of so much nature to discover – and you’ll definitely feel like an explorer, as there are lots of places that aren’t crowded, and a hiker or biker can simply get away from the maddening crowds.
In winter, Big Sky and Whitefish offer world-class skiing, and midweek you’ll have the ski runs mostly to yourself. Winter is also a great time to explore Montana on XC skis or snowshoes and fall in love in the tranquility of a Montana winter.
Summer in Montana is more crowded, as campgrounds fill up and tourists flock to the cabins that fringe the great lakes that you can find throughout the state. There is still plenty of space to hike in the Rocky Mountains, ride your bike on beautiful, quiet roads or backpack. Glacier National Park is a highlight of the state, but not the only place to spend your time.
Hiking regions in Montana
Best Hikes in Montana
Sky Lakes and Hanging Valley Loop Trail
Immerse yourself in Montana’s Cabinet Mountains and discover a hidden alpine oasis on the Sky Lakes and Hanging Valley Loop. Sweeping mountain views and several crystalline alpine pools await you after an arduous climb through the preserved wilderness abundant with a diversity of flora and fauna—what are you waiting for? Let’s go.
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Geiger Lakes via Lost Buck Pass Trail
The Geiger Lakes via Lost Buck Pass Trail is a demanding and dynamic day-hike in the Kootenai National Forest that uncovers a hidden oasis in the preserved wilderness. While the climb is relentless, conquerors are rewarded with two scenic and secluded alpine pools flanked by the ridges anchored by Carney Peak.
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Bear and Baree Lakes Loop Trail
Sweeping views of the Cabinet Mountains, crystalline alpine lakes, and enchanting woodlands await you on the Bear and Baree Lakes Loop Trail. This high-country hike is demanding and dynamic, requiring endurance and navigational skills—though the scenery and solitude are well worth the hassle.
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Star Peak Lookout Hike
Hike up to the historic lookout tower above the clouds on the Star Peak Lookout Trail. Reserved for experienced hikers with good endurance and proper equipment, this arduous ascent is no walk in the park—but those who make it to the summit are rewarded with spellbinding vistas.
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Kootenai Falls Trail
The Kootenai Falls Trail is a fun family adventure in the Kootenai National Forest that showcases the beauty and grandeur of the famed waterfall that cascades down the Kootenai River. This scenic hike is a must-add to your hiking itinerary—trust us.
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Swisher Lake to Gateway Boat Camp Hike
Explore northern Montana and come within 0.3 km of the Canadian Border on the Swisher Lake to Gateway Boat Camp Hike. Shared with equestrians, this scenic adventure traces the scenic riverbanks of the Kootenai, exhibiting a diversity of flora and fauna along the way.
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South Fork Ross Creek Trail
The South Fork Ross Creek Trail is a pleasant trail that explores an enchanting grove occupied by ancient giant red cedars. Traveling through the Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area, hikers can learn all about the ecology and history of the unique environment before discovering a hidden waterfall.
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Henry Lake Trail
Discover a hidden oasis in northern Montana on the Henry Lake Trail. This family-friendly expedition into the preserved wilderness is quite scenic—wander through a swathe of lush woodlands up to an idyllic lake nestled amongst the crags of Mount Henry.
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Little Spar Lake Trail
Hiking the Little Spar Lake Trail is an unforgettable experience. This high-country hike travels through a variety of terrains, most of which are washed out or overgrown—so navigation is no easy feat. Dynamic and demanding, the spell-binding scenery showcased along this route is worth the sweat.
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Callahan Creek and Historic Railway Trail
Hiking the Callahan Creek and Historic Railway Trail is easy-going and impressively scenic. Steep in history and unrivaled in its natural beauty, this pleasant trail is ideal for those seeking a peaceful hike that the whole family can enjoy.
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Ant Flat Historical Site Nature Trail
Seeking a family-friendly adventure near Eureka? The Ant Flat Historical Site Nature Trail is a scenic and informative stroll that explores one of the first administrative sites in northwest Montana. Today this area is now used as a natural resource education center and the trails are lined with interpretive signage.
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Rainbow Lake Trail
Sweeping views of the Wigwam Drainage, Galton Range, and the Ten Lakes Basin await you on the Rainbow Lake Trail. This scenic high-country hike in Northern Montana explores Rainbow Lake before summiting Poorman Mountain, overlooking Eureka and the mountainous landscape.
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Murphy Lake Hike
The Murphy Lake Hike is a family-friendly adventure in the Kootenai National Forest that explores the forested shoreline of an idyllic lake. This short but scenic trail boasts the perfect opportunity to get the whole family outside into the fresh air.
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Flower Creek Trail
The Flower Creek Trail is an arduous day hike, but let us tell you, the payoff is worth it! Featuring lush woodlands, scenic streams, montane meadows, idyllic lakes, and sweeping mountain views, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another hike quite as scenic in the Kootenai National Forest.
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Engle Lake Trail
Spellbinding alpine scenery awaits you on the Engle Lake Trail. This scenic and steep high-country hike explores lush subalpine woodlands, vibrant montane meadows, and scree fields before reaching the idyllic lake flanked by Engle Peak’s slopes.
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Bluebird Lake via Highline Trail
The Bluebird Lake via Highline Trail is a marvelous adventure in the Kootenai National Forest that begs your exploration. This relentless climb into the high country progresses through lush woodlands and meadows alongside meandering creeks to the shoreline of an idyllic alpine lake.
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Engle Peak Hike
The Engle Peak Hike is an arduous ascent up to the summit of a famed Cabinet Mountain. While there is no doubt that this is a strenuous adventure, it is impressively scenic. Bring plenty of water and don’t forget your camera—the panoramic views from the summit are postcard perfect.
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Teepee Mountain Trail
Sweeping mountain views await you on the Teepee Mountain Trail. This gorgeous high-country hike demands a sweat, but the scenery from the summits is well worth the effort, trust us! Those who head out in the early summer will enjoy gorgeous displays of wildflowers.
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Shannon Lake Hike
Discover an idyllic lake in the Kootenai National Forest on the Shannon Lake Hike. This family-friendly adventure contours the timbered ridges above the Kootenai River along the Historic Highway 2 West. We love this hike, and we think you will too.
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Bighorn Trail #42
The Bighorn Trail #42 is an exciting expedition that explores the riverbanks of the Kootenai River. Shared with mountain bikers, this route boasts a more secluded, and arguably more scenic way to experience the Kootenai Falls.