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
Waterton Overlook Trail
The Waterton Overlook Trail is a unique hike as it begins by crossing the border by boat from Canada to the United States, making a passport necessary to do this hike. The hike is family-friendly and gives you a small workout but rewards you with beautiful views. Immerse into nature with this spectacular hike.
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Quartz Creek Trail
Quartz Creek Trail is a relaxing hike on a remote trail in Glacier National Park. The hike takes you through mostly forested areas and opens up to occasional meadows filled with wildflowers in the summer months. In the spring, Quartz Creek can be dangerous with high, heavy water flow, so be mindful of this if you are hiking during these months as you have to cross the creek towards the end of the trail.
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Fish Lake Trail
Fish Lake Trail is a mix between relaxing and heart pumping. The start of the trail takes you through a dense forest as you begin to ascend along Gunsight Pass Trail. After a workout, you are rewarded with the serene setting of lily-pad-covered Fish Lake.
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Howe Ridge Trail
Howe Ridge Trail is a hike through a forested area that was burned by a previous fire and is experiencing regrowth throughout. There are wonderful views during this hike; however, the new trees that are growing are beginning to obscure the sights slightly. During this trail, you will be able to see stunning views of Lake McDonald and the surrounding mountain peaks.
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Snyder Ridge Trail
Hiking through Snyder Ridge Trail takes you through a forest for most of the trail that follows the ridge along the way. The views for most of the hike are of the surrounding dense forest until you come closer to the end of the trail. The last few miles will open up to small creeks and beautiful views of Fish Lake.