Big Sky Trails

Big Sky is more than just a place on a map; it's a feeling, an experience, and a community deeply connected to the wild heart of Montana. And right at the core of that connection are our incredible trails, winding through towering mountains, whispering evergreen forests, and alongside world-class rivers. If you're ready to lace up your boots or hop on your bike, you're in for a treat!

Our local trails, many lovingly cared for by the Big Sky Community Organization (BSCO), offer over 38 miles of multiuse pathways for hiking, biking, and walking with our four-legged friends, all easily accessible from the Meadow Village and Town Center. They're your invitation to step out, breathe deep, and discover the Big Sky we cherish.

Here's a peek at some of our favorite pathways:

Riverside Rambles & Scenic Loops

• Little Willow Way & Black Diamond Trail: Start your day by the gentle murmur of the river. Little Willow Way begins at the Community Park entrance and follows the water eastward for almost a mile. From there, the Black Diamond Trail picks up, transforming into a wilder, more scenic path that loops through our disc golf course before emerging at the skate park. Connecting these two is a perfect way to get your steps in, soak up incredible views, and enjoy some peace in nature. 

• Crail Ranch Trail: Another gem starting from the Community Park, the Crail Ranch Trail offers a leisurely westward journey across the historic Crail Ranch meadow. This path is a true step back in time, offering sweeping views of the meadow and surrounding peaks. Don't forget to pop over to the Crail Ranch Museum, just a short stroll down Spotted Elk Road from the trailhead, to learn about the pioneers who shaped this land.

Paved Paths & Easy Connections

• Gallatin Canyon Trail: For a smooth, paved journey, hop on the Gallatin Canyon Trail. This 2.5-mile asphalt path runs along the west side of Highway 191, connecting Ophir School to the Conoco intersection.

• Lone Peak Trail: At that intersection, the 3-mile paved Lone Peak Trail takes over, guiding you from the highway right into the heart of Meadow Village and Town Center. It runs parallel to Lone Mountain Trail, offering an easy way to explore. Keep an eye out for the Kircher Park trailhead across from the Little Coyote Road intersection on Lone Peak Trail – it's a short trail leading to a lovely open picnic area by the river, a fantastic spot to relax with some prime fishing access.

The Iconic Ousel Falls & Beyond

• Ousel Falls Road (and Park Trail): This is where the magic truly begins! Picking up where the Lone Peak Trail leaves off, Ousel Falls Road leads you 2+ miles from the Town Center to the Ousel Falls parking lot. This path is also a vital link, connecting our lower meadow trails to the beloved Ousel Falls Park. The trail itself is beautifully built, descending into the South Fork ravine for about three-quarters of a mile, culminating in breathtaking views of the river and its powerful falls. Just before you reach the main falls, you'll spot the trailhead for First Yellow Mule Trail (FS 162) forking off to the left. This trail follows the south bank of the river, offering even more incredible vistas before turning to follow First Yellow Mule Creek for several miles.

Forest Adventures & Wilderness Gateways

• South Fork Loop: Just past the bridge over the South Fork on Aspen Leaf Drive, you'll find the trailhead for the South Fork Loop. This delightful 1.7-mile loop takes you on a pleasant journey through the whispering evergreen forest alongside the river. It's a peaceful escape into nature's embrace.

• Beyond the BSCO Trails: Big Sky is a trail paradise! You'll find countless other trails around our area, including the stunning North Fork Loop and the renowned Beehive Basin trail, which skirt and even venture into the incredible Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area. And let's not forget the extensive trail systems on and around the mountain, managed by Big Sky Resort, offering even more opportunities for unforgettable views and adventures.

Ready to explore? Grab a "Big Sky Trails" map – available at most businesses in the Town Center and Meadow Village, as well as online at https://bscomt.org/.  Be sure to also check out our hiking page with a full listing of local hiking options.