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Best river hikes in Montana
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Best river hikes in Montana

Go with the flow on these riverside adventures! From gentle streams to powerful rapids, these hikes offer constant companionship with the sound of rushing water.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Montana.

Most popular hikes

1

Extra difficult

Great Divide Trail

Glacier County, Montana · star 4.5 (15) · 1192.6 km · Est. 48 days

2

Medium

Mystic Lake via West Rosebud Trail

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

3

Medium

The Beaten Path

Park County, Montana · star 4.7 (17) · 39.6 km · Est. 2 days

4

Easy

Big Creek Lakes and Big Creek Trail

Ravalli County, Montana · star 4.4 (40) · 31.2 km · Est. 2 days

5

Easy

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.5 (47) · 9.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 17 min

6

Medium

Champagne Falls

Gallatin County, Montana · star 4.5 (38) · 11.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 1 min

7

Medium

Black Canyon of the Yellowstone

Park County, Montana · star 4.7 (13) · 34.8 km · Est. 2 days

8

Easy

Swan River Hiking Trail

Flathead County, Montana · star 4.4 (47) · 6.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 23 min

9

Easy

Rattlesnake Trail

Missoula County, Montana · star N/A (0) · 54.8 km · Est. 2 days

10

Difficult

Black Mountain, Pine Creek Lake and Jewel Lake via Pine Creek Trail

Park County, Montana · star 4.6 (31) · 19.2 km · Est. 6 hrs 41 min

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Reviews for river hikes in Montana

باران پارسا avatar

Great Divide Trail

باران پارسا · reviewed almost 6 years ago

star star star star star

Dr. Helga Weimann avatar

Mystic Lake via West Rosebud Trail

HillWanderer82 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

avatar

The Beaten Path

Jason Whatley · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Simply amazing. Started at Cooke City and fought mosquitos for first several miles, but it was worth every bite. I’ve never seen such splendor. I would recommend at least two days, but three if want to really enjoy it.

Terry Romaguera DVM avatar

Big Creek Lakes and Big Creek Trail

GlacierNaturelover76 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Melanie avatar

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Adventure Seeker · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

The Trail of Cedars is a very busy trail that's more like walking on a deck that leads to the Avalanche lake trail. Along the way, you will pass many water features, including some waterfalls and eventually, this leads to Avalanche Lake. Good trail, but way too many people.

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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