Spanish Peaks Wilderness in Montana

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Spanish Peaks

Located just north of Big Sky and Moonlight Basin, the Spanish Peaks Mountain Range is part of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, full of rugged alpine peaks, abundant wildlife, hidden lakes, and miles of explorable forest.

  • The Spanish Peaks Unit is one of four areas within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, located in southwest Montana. 
  • Enjoy fishing, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, camping and cross-country skiing. 
  • Whitewater raft in Bear Trap Canyon or explore Bear Creek Wildlife Management Area.

What can I see and do within the Spanish Peaks?

Hiking and Backpacking
The best way to access the Spanish Peaks is via hiking trail:

  • North Fork Trail: Head 9.7 miles into the saddle above Bear Basin. You'll be right in the heart of the peaks. Just west of Lone Mountain Ranch, head north along the North Fork Road to the trailhead.
  • Deer Creek Trail: A few miles north of the Big Sky turnoff on US 191, cross the Gallatin River to the Deer Creek Trailhead. There are a number of loop options that access high alpine lakes and peaks. Link it up with the North Fork Trail for a great backpacking loop.

Spanish Creek Cabin
Access the north side of the Spanish Peaks via Spanish Creek Road off of US 191. Hike 3.5 miles to the cabin and spend the night. Reservations required.

Rafting Bear Trap Canyon
On the northern edge of the Spanish Peaks, hop on an exciting 9-mile stretch of Madison River whitewater through Bear Trap Canyon.

Where are the Spanish Peaks?

The Spanish Peaks Range lies at the northern end of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness area within the Gallatin National Forest. As a subset of the Madison Mountain Range, they are easily viewable to the north of Moonlight Basin.

Who can I call with more questions?

Call the Gallatin National Forest at (406) 587-6701.