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Best backpacking hikes in Montana
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Best backpacking hikes in Montana

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Montana.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Mystic Lake via West Rosebud Trail

Stillwater County, Montana · star 4.6 (38) · 9.4 km · Est. 2 hrs 44 min

2

Medium

Lady of the Lake and Lower Aero Lake

Park County, Montana · star 4.5 (43) · 18.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 40 min

3

Easy

Big Creek Lakes and Big Creek Trail

Ravalli County, Montana · star 4.4 (40) · 31.2 km · Est. 7 hrs 32 min

4

Medium

Sundance Pass,September Morn Lake and Keyser Brown Lake via Lake Fork Trail

Carbon County, Montana · star 4.5 (34) · 39.6 km · Est. 10 hrs 39 min

5

Medium

Haystack Pass and Garden Wall Trail via Highline Trail

Glacier County, Montana · star 4.4 (43) · 24.4 km · Est. 6 hrs 36 min

6

Medium

Lake Louise via Lake Louise Trail

Madison County, Montana · star 4.3 (36) · 10.7 km · Est. 2 hrs 57 min

7

Medium

Blossom Lakes Trail

Sanders County, Montana · star 4.4 (39) · 11.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 57 min

8

Easy

West Boulder River Trail

Park County, Montana · star 4.4 (30) · 14.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 20 min

9

Easy

Rock Island Lake Trail

Park County, Montana · star 4.6 (35) · 11.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 29 min

10

Difficult

Lucifer Lake Trail

Lake County, Montana · star 4.5 (32) · 11.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 47 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in Montana

Dr. Helga Weimann avatar

Mystic Lake via West Rosebud Trail

HillWanderer82 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Mr. Hope Morissette avatar

Lady of the Lake and Lower Aero Lake

ForestWildtracker74 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Terry Romaguera DVM avatar

Big Creek Lakes and Big Creek Trail

GlacierNaturelover76 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Mary Ziemann avatar

Sundance Pass,September Morn Lake and Keyser Brown Lake via Lake Fork Trail

TrailmateMountaineer11 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Jeanett Carroll avatar

Haystack Pass and Garden Wall Trail via Highline Trail

MountainForester81 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Montana

What is the climate like for hiking in Montana?

With Montana's continental climate, the summer season, from June to September, offers the most comfortable hiking conditions. The weather is typically warm and sunny, making trails in areas like Glacier National Park particularly inviting. However, afternoon thunderstorms are common, so hikers should be prepared.
Autumn, from September to November, showcases vibrant fall colors, with milder temperatures ideal for hiking. Winter, though, is severe, with heavy snowfall limiting access to many trails. Spring can be unpredictable, with lingering snow and wet conditions in many areas, delaying the hiking season.
Therefore, the best time to hike in Montana is generally summer, particularly in July and August. Hikers should always check weather conditions and trail status ahead of time, using resources like the Montana Wilderness Association (https://wildmontana.org/discover-the-wild/hike-wild-montana) for detailed information.

Do I need a permit to hike in Montana?

Hiking in Montana often doesn't require permits, but certain areas like Glacier National Park require them for backcountry camping. Check specifics with relevant park services or on the official U.S. National Park Service website (https://www.nps.gov/index.htm) to ensure adherence to local rules and regulations.

Is wild camping allowed in Montana?

Wild camping in Montana's national forests is generally permitted, subject to specific rules and restrictions. It's recommended to verify local regulations via the U.S. Forest Service website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/activity/superior/recreation/camping-cabins/?recid=36905&actid=34). Always follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.

Are there mountain rescue services in Montana?

In case of an emergency while hiking in Montana, contact local authorities by dialing 911. The county sheriff's office typically coordinates search and rescue efforts. Hikers can also refer to the Mountain Rescue Association's website (https://mra.org/) for additional resources and safety information.

Are there dangerous plants in Montana?

Montana's trails take hikers through diverse ecosystems, from grasslands to alpine meadows, populated by prairie flowers, Ponderosa pines, and western larch. Hikers should be aware of poison ivy in lower altitudes. More information can be found on the Montana Field Guide website (http://fieldguide.mt.gov/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Montana?

Hikers in Montana may encounter diverse wildlife such as elk, moose, bears, and mosquitoes. It's crucial to keep a safe distance from large mammals and carry bear spray when in bear country. The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks website (http://fwp.mt.gov/) offers detailed wildlife encounter guidelines.

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