Hiking
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Information & Maps on many local hiking/biking/fishing trails.
Montana Alpine Guides - Guided Hikes
The leader in guided backpack & hiking trips into area forests. Ideal for teens, families or couples who want to experience backcountry adventure.
(406) 586-8430
Alpine Lake
© Vertical Media
6 Local Hikes in the Big Sky Area
Lava Lake - The reward of reaching Lava Lake is well worth tackling the somewhat steep
trail that turns into switchbacks just before reaching your destination. The hike to
the lake is about 3 miles and should take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours depending on the
hiker. Plan on spending a little time at the lake for pictures and bring a sandwich for
lunch. The trail does continue on if you decide you want to hike longer. To get to the trailhead drive approximately 15 miles north towards Bozeman to just past
the 35-mph bridge. You will actually have to drive past the Lava Lake trailhead sign to
the next pullout, turn around and then pull into the road.
Porcupine - This trail begins in a fairly open area perfect for wildflower viewing
(depending on the season) and can be as long or short as you would like it to be. The
trail begins alongside Porcupine Creek, but soon splits of, offering a number of trails
to follow. Take a trail that goes to the left to follow First Creek; another trail off
to the right; or just continue to follow Porcupine. All of these trails will connect with
a much larger trail system, for which we recommend buying a map. To get to the trailhead drive 1 mile south on highway 191 to the Porcupine Trailhead sign.
Take a left and drive on the dirt road until you reach the parking lot.
Teepee - This is an easy open hike with a gradual incline leading to trails within
Yellowstone
National Park. It is a great one for kids or those not accustomed to lots of hiking.
To get to the trailhead drive approximately 14 miles south of Big Sky. The trailhead is on
the left and is the last trail before crossing into Yellowstone National Park.
Alpine Medow
© Vertical Media
Beehive Basin - This is a great hike leading to a few beautiful mountain lakes. It is a perfect
half-day hike and is generally pretty easy, but be warned that the last bit is steep and you
are at a pretty high elevation. To get to the trailhead drive the Big Sky Spur Rd approximately 9-10 miles until it turns to
gravel. Continue until the end taking a right immediately before the Moonlight Basin gate.
Follow this windy road for two miles to the parking area and trailhead.
Lemon's Knob - This short hike is rewarded by wonderful views looking towards
Yellowstone
National Park and Lone Peak. It is a continuous climb that should take between 30-90 minutes
to reach the Knob depending on the hiker. Just follow the trail to the left whenever there is
an intersection. Once you reach the Knob the trail does continue down into Porcupine.
To get to the trailhead drive 5 miles south on 191 and take a left at the Twin Cabins
trailhead (Rainbow Ranch). Park in the Twin Cabins parking lot and the trail starts on the
left.
Deer Creek - This trail is 6- 7 miles to Deer Lake. If you are inspired to go all the way to
the lake bring your rod to try your hand fishing for Grayling. The bridge is also a great
place to take a dip in the chilly waters of the Gallatin when you finish your hike.
To get to the trailhead drive 3.7 miles north towards Bozeman on highway 191, taking a left
at the Deer Creek trailhead.
YOU ARE IN BEAR COUNTRY
There are lots of bears living here with some areas specified as protected habitats for the
Grizzly. Chances are you will never see a bear, but we do recommend people carry bear spray
and make lots of noise when hiking. Hiking in groups of 2 or more is always a good idea.
- content and photo from the Big Sky
Chamber of Commerce
55FOther pages you might find helpful:
American Long Distance Hiking Association
Learn about hikes and hiking events through the ALDHA.
