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Montana is perhaps arguably the most beautiful state in the US and those arguing the case would have a few legs to stand on. The contrast of lush green with snow-topped mountains rising up beyond them on every horizon is truly stunning.
This one-week road trip will take travelers through some of the best-hiking destinations of Montana, giving them a great glimpse of what this state has to offer.
Day 1: Bozeman
Bozeman’s peak time is during the winter months as it sits right in the center of Big Sky County. However, it is still a stunning destination during other parts of the year, and it's usually less busy then. Bozeman is the starting point of this adventure, and it is a great place to enjoy some of what the city has to offer before getting started with the hikes
- Must-Visit - Downtown Bozeman, Museum of the Rockies
South 9th Bistro
Dedicated to the customer’s experience, their talented culinary staff provides their visitors with an excellent experience. Their food is delicious and is an amazon gastronomic destination.
- Address - 721 S 9th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715-4314
- Contact - 406-404-1244
- Cost - $$-$$$
- Must-Try - Coquilles St.Jacques
- Menu
Main Street Overeasy
This is a can’t-miss breakfast stop that will get travelers fueled up and ready to take on their journey. With tons of breakfast favorites it's impossible to go wrong here, but do make sure to grab a cinnamon roll!
- Address - 9 E Main St, Bozeman, MT 59715-6206
- Contact - 406-587-3205
- Cost - $$-$$$
- Must-Try - Their Cinnamon Rolls
- Menu
Day 2: Beehive Basin Loop, Big Sky
A brief trip out of Bozeman, the Beehive Basin Loop is a well-regarded hike that takes hikers through the Beehive Glacial Basin. The hike consists of about 1,500 feet of elevation gain and is regarded as a challenge. That being said it's a well-marked and well-traveled trail so as long as hikers give themselves enough time, finishing it shouldn’t be an issue.
- Travel Distance - 52.8 miles, 1 hour 7 minutes
- Google Maps
- Difficulty - Hard
- Length - 11.4 km
- Duration - 3 hours 30 minutes
- Trail Map
Day 3: Camp Misery Trailhead, Jewel Basin Rd
When arriving at this trailhead make sure to use caution. The last 7 miles to the trailhead are steep and narrow so make sure headlights are on and be cautious. However, once hikers arrive safely they should be able to enjoy this hike with great alpine vistas. Mountain bikers frequent these trails and dogs are also welcome here.
- Travel Distance - 325 miles, 6 hours 17 minutes
- Google Maps
- Difficulty - Hard
- Length - 10 km
- Duration - 3 hours 22 minutes
- Trail Map
Day 4: Highline Trail, Montana
The area around the trailhead has a few shops giving an opportunity to restock and perhaps enjoy some of the candy from the candy shop there. It is also home to a sprawling network of trails that attract many visitors. The primary attraction for this day is the Highline Trail. This trail is challenging and traverses steep passes, passes hidden lakes, and offers the opportunity to encounter wildlife which should be regarded with caution.
- Travel Distance - 70 miles, 2 hours 11 minutes
- Google Maps
- Difficulty - Hard
- Length - 24 km
- Duration - 6 hours 46 minutes
- Trail Map
Day 5: Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument
This area around the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument offers over 149 miles of trails. This is a heavily visited region as they offer great views of stunning white cliffs while being largely accessible. With views of the Badlands and other stunning natural scenery, this is a sought-after destination. Here are two trails travelers should consider. However, there are many more that hikers could explore as time permits.
- Travel Distance - 287 miles, 6 hours 19 minutes
- Google Maps
Hole in the Wall
0.8 miles but the Hole in the Wall Developed Boat Camp, this hike offers a slightly challenging two-mile look that includes some rock scramble along an otherwise well-worn path. Hikers will have to navigate rock features and a mini-slot canyon. This is a fun hike and not overlong,
- Difficulty - Moderate-Hard
- Length - 3.2 km (2 miles)
- Duration - 1 hour 45 minutes
- Trail Map
Dark Butte & Archangel
Behind the Dark Butte Primitive Boat Camp, this hike offers a chance to visit two features located fairly close to each other. You will first traverse up to Dark Butte and then down to the Archangel formation below. There is a short stretch that passes through private land. Be sure to be respectful and quick when passing through.
- Difficulty - Moderate-Hard
- Length - 6.4 km (4 miles)
- Duration - 3 hours 30 minutes
- Trail Map
Day 6: Bear Track Trailhead, Red Lodge
This is a particularly long hike, but it will be up to the hikers to keep track of time and how much daylight they have left. It is also recommended to get the day started early, so hikers arrive with plenty of time. Along this route, it will be unlikely that hikers will encounter others as they make the long journey into the mountains for stunning alpine vistas. Dogs are welcome here too.
- Travel Distance - 297 miles, 6 hours 19 minutes
- Google Maps
- Difficulty - Hard
- Length - 29.3 km
- Duration - 9 hours 8 minutes
- Trail Map
Day 7: Bozeman
With this journey wrapping up it is time to make the drive back to Bozeman. Travelers should take a moment to enjoy the city one last time before officially ending their adventure.
- Travel Distance - 156 miles, 2 hours 41 minutes
- Google Maps
- Travel Distance - 1,187 miles
- Travel Time - 25 hours
- Route Map