These 8 hikes in Montana will make you swoon for Big Sky Country

15.07.2024 - 20:58 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 15, 2024 • 6 min read

The vast landscapes of Montana are studded with towering mountain ranges (the state's name comes from the Spanish word for mountain), sparkling lakes and endless prairies. It's right up there as one of the titans of hiking in the USA with the sheer scale of trails available.

While Glacier National Park is understandably the star attraction for most visitors – it's home to some of the best trails in the state – don't sleep on the rest of Big Sky Country. This is the fourth largest state in the US, and with just over one million residents, you're going to stumble across more wildlife than people on your hikes.

With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. We've got you covered with our pick of the best hikes in Montana and the top tips you need to ensure a wonderful time is had by all.

Tips for hiking in Montana

Best hike for beginners in search of stunning views
5.9 miles round trip; elevation of 757 feet; easy

Within Glacier National Park, close to the west entrance, is Avalanche Lake, easily the most trafficked trail in the entirety of Montana. It begins on a wooden footbridge through old-growth cedars and hemlock, before ascending gently alongside the glacial melt of Avalanche Creek. Despite the trail's popularity, the scenery is rich and evocative of Montana's deepest wilderness, with wildflowers like glacier lilies and critters of all kinds visible until reaching the crystal blue waters of Avalanche Lake. This easy trail is great for novice hikers or those without too much time to go deep into the backcountry. 

Best hike for seeing glaciers up close
11.2 miles round trip; elevation of 2181 feet; challenging

On the Eastern side of Glacier National Park is the Grinnell Glacier Trail, a popular route among experienced hikers who want to see the park's namesake glaciers up close. This incredibly scenic trek has waterfalls, wildlife – including grizzlies and mountain goats – and panoramic views of lakes, forests and mountain peaks. The hardest part of this challenging hike comes at the end when a series of switchbacks leads hikers to the glacial lagoon beneath Grinnell Glacier. Bring walking sticks, water, rain gear and anything else required for an all-day hike.  

Best hike for views above the clouds
8.6 miles round trip; elevation of 2037 feet; challenging

Montana's beauty is not contained only within Glacier National Park. Just beyond the borders are more hiking opportunities to explore, including one of the best hikes in Whitefish: the Danny On Memorial Trail. This dog-friendly trek is steep and challenging but with plenty of rewards. On the right day, hikers can find themselves experiencing an inversion, watching the clouds roll by below them. This trail