Visit Big Sky Hiking Guide

Page 1

‘Find Your Trail #HIKEBIGSKY 1


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Contents 3

BIG SKY INFORMATION

24 BACKPACKING

4

BIG SKY MAP

26 REFUEL

7 INTRODUCTION

28 PROVISIONS

8 CANYON

29 RELAX

14 MEADOW

30

HIKING DIRECTORY

20 MOUNTAIN

There’s a lot more to Big Sky than the endless views and wide-open skies that give this Montana destination its name. Big Sky is an R-Destination. Come Recreate, Recharge, Rejuvenate, Reboot and Return home Refreshed. Big Sky offers unlimited access to outdoor recreation: the wet and wild whitewater experience, blue ribbon trout streams, backcountry hikes, meandering wildlife and widespread wildflowers. It’s made of a welcoming community filled with people who have chosen Big Sky, for the week or forever. This is an area full of adventure, and vibrant with entertainment options to suit a variety of individuals and groups, from families to businesses, to all-guys or gal’s trips, meetings, family reunions, romantic getaways and weddings. If that isn’t enough, Big Sky is your gateway community to Yellowstone National Park adventures, where geologic wonders and rugged nature are in a summer or winter day’s visit with the West Entrance to the Park accessible to the south in just under an hour. In winter, Big Sky is home to the BIGGEST SKIING IN AMERICA® with over 5,800 acres of skiable terrain spread across four mountains, 4,350 vertical feet and 85 km of award-winning Nordic trails. We invite you to come experience it all for yourself and #visitbigsky. 3


1.5 mi

Lee’s Pool

mi 1.0

MAP

Madison Village

Ulery’s Lake Camp

A23

BIG SKY RESORT

( Lift tion

struc

r con

unde 18 )

in 20

Camp Sacajawea

TRAIL LEGEND BIG SKY RESORT e Tw

TOWN CENTER

en

Trail Type Hike Only Trail Bike Only Trail Multi Use Trail Freeride Bike Trail

Easiest

Moderate

er

BIG SKY & GREATER YELLOWSTONE VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER

Ho

Difficult

me

r

Fish Camp

Gallatin County

Time to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): 50 miles #FLYBZN

Madison County

Distance to Yellowstone National Park: 50 miles


MEADOW VILLAGE

TOWN CENTER

Gallatin Canyon Trail


6


S Big ky At the intersection of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, the Gallatin Ranges and the Madison Ranges sits the town of Big Sky. From our gateway to adventure, we can count almost 60 trailheads within 10 miles of town! The canyons, meadows, and mountains that meet in Big Sky are some of the best-kept secrets of the hikers who have fallen in love with the West. Whether you’ve just conquered Lone Peak, meandered to Beehive Basin, or stormed to the top of Storm Castle, when the hiking here wraps for the day, the adventure is just beginning. Beyond the trailheads, easy access to world-class fly fishing, epic whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and more make Big Sky’s outlets to adventure just as convenient as they are epic. And when the sun has set, we’ve got a few ideas on where to relax and recharge. So lace up those boots, grab some provisions from town and hit the open trails. The wildflowers, cool mist of mountain streams, and cool wind through the forest are waiting to welcome you. Here’s everything you’ll need to know to get started.

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Canyon 8 8


The Gallatin River Canyon connects Big Sky to Bozeman with Highway 191 skirting the river that carved through the canyon. Look up when you’re driving in, because that’s where these trails will be taking you.

9 9


Day Hikes STORM CASTLE PEAK CANYON

5 miles

ROUND TRIP

1900ft

ELEVATION GAIN

A steep trail with amazing views from trailhead to summit. When you get to the top, you’ll be rewarded with views overlooking the entire Gallatin Canyon and then some. Plus, a photo op through a natural arch perfectly frames the view.

TRAVEL TIP We’d recommend tackling Storm Castle earlier in the day. The switchbacks take you through gorgeous mountain meadows that spill into the canyon, but that means there isn’t a lot of shade to protect you from the midday sun. It can get pretty toasty up on that mountain!

LAVA LAKE 6 miles

ROUND TRIP

1600ft

ELEVATION GAIN

TRAVEL TIP

One of the most scenic hikes in Gallatin Canyon, the Lava Lake trail follows Cascade Creek to a mountain lake chilling at 7,115 feet. From the lake, you have the option to make your way up to the ridge, but we might also recommend a little swim instead. With little river crossings, natural staircases, and even a chance to pick some huckleberries if the season is right, it’s a great hike for any age level. Just save some time for a leisurely picnic at the top. 10

The turnoff to the trailhead is a bit tricky, and you can’t turn onto it straight from the highway when travelling FROM Big Sky. To safely access the trailhead, drive past the turnoff and make a U-turn at the next highway entrance. This will enable you to safely access the turnoff by turning right off the southbound side of the highway.


PORCUPINE CREEK 5 miles

LOOP

465ft

(longer or shorter options possible)

ELEVATION GAIN

Located right where the canyon meets the meadow, Porcupine Creek’s trailhead sits at the doorstep of town and is a favorite amongst locals. With interconnecting loops and rails, you can make the hike as long or as short as you’d like. This is a bonus for anyone nursing sore calves after the more challenging Storm Castle trek. TRAVEL TIP The access to Porcupine Creek is sometimes limited by the Forest Service depending on the season. Stop by the Big Sky & Greater Yellowstone Visitor Information Center to double check any access restrictions. Or just to say hi.

TAYLOR FORK Mileage and elevation gain varies based on trail picked. Adjacent to Yellowstone National Park, the Taylor Fork region is a local favourite for hiking, camping, horseback riding, and more. Check out trails like Bacon Rind, Cache Creek, Lightning Creek, Sage Creek, or throughout this unique landscape.

TRAVEL TIP

Seek out color– In fall, the Aspen and Cottonwood tree leaves are magnificently gold and red.

TOP HIKES

Still craving more? Check out these other canyon favourites that appeal to a variety of skill levels.

Taylor Fork Area

0

Just outside of Yellowstone, the Taylor Fork Area is home to elk, grizzly bears, and plenty of other wildlife who call this part of the state home. With hikes like Tumbledown Lake, the wildflower basins, waterfalls, thick forests and rock formations showcases some of the best of the region’s unique landscapes.

MULTIPLE TRAIL LOOPS

Fawn Pass Trail

2,000

Fawn Pass rewards hikers with some pretty spectacular Yellowstone views, and possibly some bear sightings. So make sure you’re Bear Aware at all times on this moderate trek. The trail ends at a meadow and a small lake, ideal for a quick snack before heading back on the trailhead.

18 miles ROUNDTRIP

10,705

Scrambling and some serious elevation gain sound like your style? Check out Dudley Creek Trail, close to Big Sky and home to some epic views, plus an alpine lake! It’s also possible to climb to the peak of Mt. Wilson here if you’re looking for some serious bragging rights.

12 miles ROUNDTRIP

Dudley Creek Trail

SEE PAGE 30 FOR THE COMPLETE LIST OF AVAILABLE HIKES

EASY

MODERATE

DIFFICULT

11

CANYON

the Upper Wapiti Trailhead to customize your journey


Adventures

CANYON

The Gallatin River Canyon wouldn’t be what it is today without the star of the show: The Gallatin River! So when you’re back at somewhere around 4,000 feet, appreciate the canyon from a new level.

WHITEWATER RAFTING

ZIPLINING

For those of us who aren’t content to stay on the

now must be a the perfect time to fly through the air.

riverbank and might need to cool off after a long hike,

A shorter excursion, but still just as fun, ziplining in

Whitewater Rafting is calling our name. With quite

Gallatin Canyon lets you embrace these mountains from a

a few operators in the Gallatin Canyon, you’ll easily

different angle. The Gallatin River Zipline (tours available

find a departure location convenient to where your

through Montana Whitewater) takes you zooming from

last hike ended. Montana Whitewater is located near

platform to platform at the base of the mountain range,

Storm Castle while Geyser Whitewater is closer to town

and then even over the Gallatin River itself.

You’ve hiked, you’ve splashed through the river, and

and Porcupine Creek. Both companies offer you plenty of adventure bouncing down the mighty Gallatin. Excursions for beginners to pure adventurers are available, and the water levels in the river are highest (read: more epic) earlier in the summer. TRAVEL TIP Worried about getting chilly? Wetsuits are an option with both companies.

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TRAVEL TIP Wear or bring closed toed shoes, comfortable shorts/pants, and weather appropriate clothing.


FLY FISHING Fly fishing along the Gallatin River... could it be any more iconic? Driving along 191, you’ll see the river’s edge dotted with fly-fishers casting their reels and enjoying the spectacular scene. Want to learn how it’s done? There are plenty of operators out of Big Sky who run tours, from a few hours to a full day. You’ll likely meet your guide at a local shop where they’ll help you get sorted with a fishing license, waders, and more, and then drive you out to the canyon to their own favourite spots. The fishing for all lessons is catch and release, so no pressure to bring home dinner. It’s a great way to learn about the sport from the people most passionate about it! TRAVEL TIP

CANYON

Check out Gallatin River Guides, Montana Whitewater, Geyser Whitewater, or visitbigsky.com for a full list of adventure operators in the canyon.

HORSEBACK RIDING Give your feet a rest and hit the trails on horseback instead. There’s nothing

more

quintessentially

Montana than riding a horse through the meadows and mountains, and horses are also a great way to see more of the backcountry. Outfitters here provide both summer and winter tours, and if you have your own horse, many also offer boarding facilities. Before you saddle up, you’ll want to call into Jake’s Horses, Lone Mountain Ranch, or 320 Guest Ranch to book an adventure. TRAVEL TIP It’s always a good idea to dress in layers no matter what time of year you visit.

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Meadow 14


Where the road guides you from Canyon to Meadow, you’ll find the vibrant community of Big Sky. A hub for local pieces, shops, artisan foods, and classy cocktails, our little town is the gateway to all of our adventures. From mountain sunsets with Lone Peak in the distance to stocking up on provisions for your next big trek, here’s all you need to know about Big Sky’s Meadow region.

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MEADOW

Day Hikes OUSEL FALLS UPLANDS TRAIL 2 miles

ROUND TRIP

500ft

ELEVATION GAIN

1.5 miles

ROUND TRIP

500ft

ELEVATION GAIN

A favourite of locals and visitors alike, the Ousel Falls trail follows the South Fork of the West Fork of the Gallatin River and ends at the base of a 100-foot waterfall. The pool makes

The star of the Uplands trail is the Huckleberry Ridge

a great swimming spot on a hot summer day, and a beautiful

Tuff, a remnant of a volcanic eruption in Yellowstone’s

place to stop for a picnic lunch or thermos of hot chocolate

caldera over two million years ago! The trail also offers

any time of year. Early in the summer, the wildflowers

some great vantage points of the Town of Big Sky, Lone

blanket the trail, and you might even catch a glimpse of the

Mountain, and the landscapes beyond!

ousel bird, or American Dipper, that the falls are named for.

TRAVEL TIP

TRAVEL TIP

This trail can be connected with the Ousel Falls Trailhead via the Ralph’s Pass trail if you’re looking for a longer hike. But watch out for mountain bikers!

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Springtime at the falls is especially epic with runoff from all of that melting mountain snow.


The trail has 3 possible loops, which means you can customize your hike to make it as short or as long as you’d like!

MEADOW

TRAVEL TIP

3 miles

HUMMOCKS TRAIL

ROUND TRIP

A great trail for both hikers and mountain bikers, the Hummocks Trail is close to town and is accessible year round! The moderately challenging trail wanders through the Meadow region’s hummocks with bumps in the landscape which were created by landslides during the ice age.

TOP HIKES

Close to town and great for all skill levels! Black Diamond Trail

0

Shorter in length, but not short on views, the Black Diamond Trail in town is a great option year round. A small incline leads up to a vista with great views back over the park.

1.6 miles ROUNDTRIP

Ralph’s Pass

597

Connecting the Uplands Trail and the Ousel Falls Trail, Ralph’s Pass is a moderate hike with boardwalks and takes in mountain views over to Lone Peak in addition to journeys thorugh forest and meadows.

2.7 miles ROUNDTRIP

Reflector Loop

951

A great hike for when you’re a little short on time, the Reflector Loop can be a stunning showcase of mountain wildflowers if you plan your summer hiking right! It’s a popular trail for birdwatching too!

4 miles ROUNDTRIP

SEE PAGE 30 FOR THE COMPLETE LIST OF AVAILABLE HIKES

EASY

MODERATE

DIFFICULT

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MEADOW

Adventures MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS Every Thursday night, Big Sky locals and visitors alike join in for a free summer concert series put on by the Arts Council of Big Sky. Listen to live music at free outdoor summer concerts every Thursday night in Town Center Park. Bring a picnic blanket and a chair (some people even bring their own couches) and get comfy for the show. Food trucks from all over are on hand for an easy dinner, and some of our local craft breweries will be serving up some of their finest librations as well.

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Music in the Mountains is Montana’s finest free outdoor concert series.


MEADOW

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Mountain 20


One road in, one road out, and it’s all leading to the Mountain. From town’s elevation at about 7,000 feet, Lone Peak stretches from the horizon to a staggering 11,166 feet! While you can hike up that beauty (with experience and a sturdy pair of boots, of course), the mountains surrounding its prominent peak shouldn’t be overlooked. Here are some of our top picks for where to get trekking in the big mountains of Big Sky.

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MOUNTAIN

Day Hikes BEEHIVE BASIN 6.6 miles

ROUND TRIP

TRAVEL TIP

1500ft

ELEVATION GAIN

Named one of the world’s greatest hikes for the stunning alpine terrain with lakes and towering peaks, Beehive Basin is a relatively easy hike with a big payoff. Enjoy views of Lone Peak and the Lee Metcalf Wilderness from several points throughout the hike, stopping for the best view of the towering peaks and wilderness at the alpine

As one of the best hikes in the west, this trail can get a little crowded. Best to get hiking early. And if you rise early enough, sunrise from the trail is beautiful and you’ll get the stunning basin all to yourself in time for breakfast.

lake at the top. We’ll let the photos do the talking for this one.

WILSON PEAK 12 miles

ROUND TRIP

A tough hike with an amazing payoff, Wilson Peak is nestled between Jumbo, Gallatin, and Table Peak in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The hike takes you up along Dudley Creek, before arriving at Dudley Lake. For many, this is where the trail ends, but for others, it’s just the beginning! From the lake, a scramble can take you up to the top of Wilson Peak at over 10,700 feet in elevation, where you’ll be able to see the Spanish Peaks laid out before you. It’s a spectacular view, that’s for sure. 22


LONE PEAK EXPEDITION

LONE PEAK 10 miles

ROUND TRIP

TRAVEL TIP 3600ft

ELEVATION GAIN

Home to Big Sky Resort, Lone Peak is the most iconic peak in all of Big Sky! While it’s more exciting to climb to the summit via the southeast ridge. The hike starts at Big Sky’s Mountain Village at 7,500 feet and follows mellow trails to the base of the ski run called BoneCrusher. From here, it’s a scramble over loose scree and across

hike up to Lone Peak (and hundreds actually do race up it during “The Rut” every year)? Well if you need a bit of help, you can take a ride up to the top instead. The Lone Peak Expedition at Big Sky Resort

MOUNTAIN

there is a tram to the summit at 11,166 feet,

If you’re planning to summit the peak in the winter season, make sure to bring crampons and an ice axe to prepare for any type of conditions!

You know how we mentioned you can

takes guests up to the top of the mountain during summer using a lift, an all terrain vehicle, and then a really epic gondola. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, goats, and plenty of downhill mountain bikers.

vertigo inducing drops to the summit.

TOP HIKES

The Mountains are calling and you must go? Don’t forget to check out some of these other high-elevation favourites too!

Coolidge Trail

1,161

Located at Big Sky Resort, this trail is open to mountain bikers and hikers and is a great way for hikers in the spring, summer, and fall to appreciate the natural beauty around the Big Sky Resort without needing to ski!

4.5 miles ROUNDTRIP

Mountain to Meadow

550

Brought your mountain bike and can’t wait to head on an epic downhill journey? Add the Mountain to Meadow trail to your list! Weaving in and out of forest, and taking you from Big Sky Resort back into town, this is one you won’t want to miss.

6 miles ONE WAY

North Fork – Ridge Trail Loop 9FS 403)

1,462

Located between Big Sky Resort and town, the North Fork Loop is a great alternative to Beehive Basin, and still lets you take in the spectacular Spanish Peaks! This trail is another one that’s also really popular with mountain bikers!

2.9 – 4 miles ROUND TRIP

SEE PAGE 30 FOR THE COMPLETE LIST OF AVAILABLE HIKES

EASY

MODERATE

DIFFICULT

23


Backpacking

Looking for something a little

tougher to get you out further into the wilderness? Here are a few of our top picks for backpacking routes close to Big Sky. Before setting off on these trails, make sure that you’re properly prepared for the elements, aware of your fitness levels, and are familiar with Bear Aware practices. Also, ensure you’re following “Leave No BACKPACK

Trace” principles so that your visit’s impact on the ecosystem is minimal.

SPANISH PEAKS 15.7 miles

OUT AND BACK

3,559ft

ELEVATION GAIN

This legendary trail is a favorite of experienced adventurers. The loop ventures to Beacon Point, drops down to Thompson Lakes, goes up and over Summit Lake, then drops down into Mirror Basin and down the

GALLATIN CREST TRAIL Up to 48 miles ROUND TRIP

10,000ft

ACROSS SEVERAL PEAKS

trail to Spanish Creek. It’s a stunning way to explore a

The trail follows the backbone of the Gallatin Range

vast section of the Spanish Peaks while taking in views

from north to south. It typically begins or ends at

of surrounding peaks.

Hyalite Canyon and ventures down to the border of Yellowstone National Park. With stunning views of the Madison Range and Paradise Valley this is one that you shouldn’t miss. It takes about 3-6 days, covering miles

Before setting off on these trails, make sure that you’re properly prepared for the elements, aware of your fitness levels, and are familiar with Bear Aware practices. Make sure you’re following “Leave No Trace” principles so that your impact on the ecosystem is minimal.

of beautiful backcountry terrain, and while you can access it via a few trails, it is never intersected by a road or highway. Meaning this trek is a great way to truly get off the grid.

TRAVEL TIP

Invest in a good camera with a large zoom lens for photos.

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HILGARD BASIN

19 miles

ROUND TRIP

4366ft

ELEVATION GAIN

Hilgard Basin is located south of Big Sky in the Madison Range. Surrounded by the highest peaks in the range, the basin is spotted with numerous named and unnamed

TRAVEL TIP

Always plan your trip according to your skill set, knowledge, and physical ability.

BACKPACK

alpine lakes that are prime spots to camp and fish. From a basecamp in the basin, other trails are also accessible if you’re interested in expanding your exploration of this mountainous wonderland.

CINNAMON CREEK TRAIL 8 miles

ROUND TRIP

2680ft

ELEVATION GAIN

Located about 11 miles south of Big Sky, Cinnamon Creek is a back trail which features a river, wildflower meadows, a pine forest and stunning views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Rated as moderate, visitors can hike, mountain bike, or use the marked equestrian trail. Dogs are also welcome to enjoy the space.

TRAVEL TIP

When out with dogs, please keep a close eye on them and remember to be Bear Aware.

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REFUEL

Refuel A major perk of trekking out to Big Sky on a hiking trip? You can be as close to or as far away from modern conveniences as you choose. For those who would love to trade in the camp stove for a sit-down restaurant, here are a few places in town and close by that we’d recommend.

COMPASS CAFE Steele Pressed Juicery Coffee?

Fresh

pressed

juices?

• Acai bowl

Breakfast?

• Caprese panini

Compass Cafe’s got all that and

• Upper Morning Star juice

Kombucha?

Lunch?

more! Stop by for a post-trail bite, or get your day started with something healthy.

GALLATIN RIVERHOUSE You know what goes well with BBQ? Epic views. And you’ll find both here. Kick back in the beer garden overlooking the river or maybe take a seat at one of the swings at the bar. This is one of our favourite places to grab a Montana Mule and enjoy the sunset after a day well spent.

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LOCAL CHOICE

LOCAL CHOICE • Pretzel sticks • Fried pickles • Chicken dinner


BUCK’S T-4 With

wild

game,

hand

HUNGRY MOOSE cut

sandwiches, and a pretty great bar, Buck’s T-4 is another Big Sky Legend. Some of our favourite menu options:

Pheasant

Quesadillas,

Montana trout, Bison Brisket. We

LOCAL CHOICE • Pheasant quesadilla

A deli and grocery store all in one, Hungry Moose is an ideal spot to pick up a picnic lunch for a day out

• The duck

on the trails. Opening early, you

• A glass of red wine

might want to grab your breakfast and morning coffee too. Alongside

won’t reveal how this place got its

the deli, you’ll find plenty of

name, you’ll have to hear it once

provisions for your day ahead.

LOCAL CHOICE • Breakfast burrito

• Homemade granola bar • Everything trout bagel

you’re there!

REFUEL

HORN & CANTLE Local food, a fantastic chef, and iconic Montana atmosphere. Need we say more? Horn & Cantle at Lone Mountain Ranch is one of our favourite spots to fill up after a day outdoors with some authentic food and drink.

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GEAR GUIDE Sun block

nt e l l e p e r t c Inse

Camera

Socks

PROVISIONS

Smartphone Bear spray

Pack Water bottle

Hat

WHERE TO SHOP Big Sky Sports

East Slope Outdoors

Gallatin Alpine Sports

Grizzly Outfitters

50 Big Sky Resort Road, PO Box 160001, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-995-5840

44 Town Center Ave, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-995-4369

169 Snowy Mountain Circle, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-995-2313

11 Lone Peak Dr ste 101, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-551-9470

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RELAX From affordable, family-friendly, hotel units to five-star luxury penthouses and private homes, Big Sky has something to appeal to everyone’s taste.

Where to stay if you don’t want  to camp

THE LODGE AT BIG SKY

320 GUEST RANCH

Discover a rustic hideaway in the heart of Big Sky’s Mountain Village and wake up to mountain views of Lone Peak, Big Sky, and Moonlight Basin or enjoy views of the Gallatin Valley.

Founded in 1928, this historic (and 4-star) hotel offers cabins and chalets to its guests. The ranch is home to delicious local cuisine and some pretty amazing horseback riding too.

75 Sitting Bull Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-995-7858

205 Buffalo Horn Creek Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 | 406-995-4283

LONE MOUNTAIN RANCH

THE RESIDENCE INN BIG SKY – THE WILSON

BIG SKY RESORT

50 Big Sky Resort Road, Big Sky, 59716 | (800) 548-4486

RELAX

Big Sky Resort offers the finest range of slope-side accommodations in Big Sky, MT. From hotels to condos to Montana-style cabins to luxury homes, Big Sky Resort has the ideal option for your preferences and budget.

Named one of National Geographic’s unique lodges of the world, Lone Mountain Ranch offers cabins nestled in the scenic Montana landscape. 750 Lone Mountain Ranch Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 | 406-995-4644

Big Sky’s newest mountain retreat – centrally located in the heart of the Big Sky community and a short drive to some of Montana’s most fascinating sites. This resortinspired destination hotel provides the perfect place to stay during your Big Sky adventure. 145 Town Center Avenue, Big Sky, Montana 59716 | 406-995-9000

BUCK’S T–4 Close to town and home to an amazing restaurant, this spot gives you easy access to the road to the Canyon and the river is nearby too! 46625 Gallatin Rd, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-995-4111

RAINBOW RANCH LODGE Originally built in 1919 and named “The Halfway Inn” because of its location halfway between Bozeman and West Yellowstone, the Rainbow Ranch Lodge has undergone many changes in its 90+ year life. 42950 Gallatin Rd, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730 | 406-995-4132

VACATION RENTALS In addition to hotels, lodges, and ranches, there are countless vacation rentals in and around Big Sky. Check out our website for some of best options! 1569 Lone Mountain Trail, Big Sky, MT 59716 | 888-915-2787 29


HIKE DIRECTORY

#HIKEBIGSKY

CANYON ALBINO LAKE

625

7.25 MILES ROUNDTRIP

BACON RIND TRAIL

203

8.6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

BLACK BUTTE TRAIL TO BIG HORN PEAK

3,105

12.8 MILES ROUNDTRIP

BUCK CREEK RIDGE

2,057

12 MILES ONE WAY

BUFFALO HORN CREEK/320 RANCH TRAILHEAD

1,900

12.5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

CINNAMON CREEK TRAIL

2,650

8.5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

DALY CREEK TRAIL

1,779

9.4 MILES ROUNDTRIP

DEER CREEK TRAIL TO DEER LAKE

3,313

11.8 MILES

DUDLEY CREEK TRAIL

10,705

ELKHORN CREEK TRAIL (FS 165)

1,341

10.6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

FAWN PASS TRAIL

2,000

18 MILES ROUNDTRIP

GALLATIN CANYON (OPHIR SCHOOL) TRAIL GALLATIN RIVERSIDE TRAIL GARNET MOUNTAIN HELL ROARING CREEK TRAIL LAVA LAKE PORCUPINE CREEK PORTAL CREEK AND HIDDEN LAKES RAT LAKE

0

2.5 MILES ONE WAY

200

5.5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

2,855

8.2 MILES ROUNDTRIP

500

5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

1,600

5.5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

770

4.5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

9,050 230

6 MILES 1.75 MILES ROUNDTRIP

SAGE CREEK TRAIL

2,250

10 MILES ROUNDTRIP

SKYRIM TRAIL LOOP

4,652

21 MILE LOOP

SPANISH CREEK & MIRROR LAKE

2,256

7.5 MILES ONE WAY TO MIRROR LAKE (Variable)

SPECIMEN CREEK TRAIL

2,325

16.4 MILES ROUNDTRIP

STORM CASTLE TRAIL

1,930

5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

SWAN CREEK TABLE MOUNTAIN FROM LAVA LAKE TAYLOR FORK AREA TEEPEE CREEK TRAIL

638

1.5–2.8 MILES ROUNDTRIP

5,874 –

16.3 MILES MULTIPLE TRAIL LOOPS

900

6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

TWIN CABIN/LEMON DROP TRAIL

1,135

3.7 MILES ROUNDTRIP

WAPITI CREEK TRAIL (FS 35)

2,005

8.3 MILES ONE WAY

WINDY PASS (FS 82) AND GOLDEN TROUT LAKES (FS 83)

8,185

6 MILES

EASY 30

12 MILES ROUNDTRIP

MODERATE

DIFFICULT


MEADOW BLACK DIAMOND TRAIL

NONE

0.8 MILES ONE WAY

CRAIL RANCH TRAIL

NONE

2.6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

FIRST YELLOW MULE (FS 162)

2,964

6.6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

460

3 MILES ROUNDTRIP

KIRCHER TRAIL

NONE

0.3 MILES ONE WAY

LITTLE WILLOW WAY

NONE

0.8 MILES ONE WAY

LONE PEAK TRAIL

400

6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

OUSEL FALLS TRAIL

265

1.5 MILES ROUNDTRIP

RALPH’S PASS

597

2.6 MILES ROUNDTRIP

REFLECTOR LOOP

951

4 MILES ROUNDTRIP

HUMMOCKS TRAIL

SECOND YELLOW MULE (FS 42)

2,737

8.4 MILES ROUNDTRIP

SOUTH FORK LOOP

NONE

1 MILE LOOP

445

UPLANDS TRAIL

2 MILES ROUNDTRIP EASY

MODERATE

DIFFICULT

MOUNTAIN –

COOLIDGE TRAIL

4.5 MILE LOOP

745

LOWER BEEHIVE BASIN

2.8 MILES ROUND TRIP

1,600

MOOSE TRACKS

2.4 MILES ONE WAY

MOUNTAIN TO MEADOW

6 MILES ONE WAY

NORTH FORK (FS 16)

1,200

3 – 6.7 MILES ROUND TRIP

NORTH FORK - RIDGE TRAIL LOOP (9FS 403)

1,462

2.9 – 4 MILES ROUND TRIP

RIDGE TRAIL (FS 403)

2,057

4 MILES ONE WAY

SUMMIT LAKE, MIRROR LAKE, CHILLED LAKES

3,250

15.7 MILES ROUND TRIP

UPPER BEEHIVE BASIN (FS 40)

1,625

6.6 MILES ROUND TRIP EASY

BEARS ARE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE ECOSYSTEM IN BIG SKY

MODERATE

DIFFICULT

®® Travel in groups of 3 or more. ®® Make lots of noise at all times. ®® Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Keep it easily accessible at all times. ®® Do not approach any wildlife. ®® Keep children and dogs close by.

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55 Lone Mountain Trail, Big Sky, MT 59716 406-995-3000 info@visitbigsky.com www.visitbigsky.com


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