Hiking & Backpacking
In addition to river rafting, fishing and biking, trail hiking is one of Big Sky's most popular outdoor activities among both visitors and locals. Whether you have 30 minutes to spare, or want to spend an entire day in the field, Big Sky offers tremendous opportunities for outdoor fun.
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Montana Alpine Guides
The leader in guided backpack or climbing trips. Ideal for teens, families or couples who want to experience a unique backcountry adventure. Safe, inexpensive, exciting & fun.
(406) 586-8430
Yellowstone Trip Planner - your personal advisor
Custom planned Yellowstone vacations that connect active visitors with a quality experience of seeing the Park's most popular sights with backcountry walks and hikes.
(406) 222-4621
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.
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
Other pages you might find helpful:
American Long Distance Hiking Association
Learn about hikes and hiking events through the ALDHA.
network of Travel Guides