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Best wildlife hikes in Montana
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Best wildlife hikes in Montana

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Montana.

Most popular hikes

1

Medium

Champagne Falls

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

2

Easy

Swan River Hiking Trail

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

3

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. 2 days

4

Easy

Cox Lake Loop

Lewis and Clark County, Montana · star 4.7 (16) · 4.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 2 min

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

Haystack Pass and Garden Wall Trail via Highline Trail

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

7

Easy

Grinnell Lake, Lake Josephine and Swiftcurrent Lake

Glacier County, Montana · star 4.5 (39) · 11.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 29 min

8

Medium

Lake Louise via Lake Louise Trail

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

9

Medium

Blossom Lakes Trail

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

10

Easy

West Boulder River Trail

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

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Reviews for wildlife hikes in Montana

Rev. Billye Ernser avatar

Champagne Falls

OutriderAspenseeker66 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Prof. Cami Abbott avatar

Swan River Hiking Trail

RavineGraniterover90 · reviewed almost 2 years 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

Moshe Effertz avatar

Cox Lake Loop

TrailmarkerClimber62 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Melanie avatar

Avalanche Lake - Trail of the Cedars

Adventure Seeker · reviewed 10 months 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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