7 Hikes In Big Sky, Montana

In Big Sky, hiking isn’t just something fun to do, it’s how you discover a place. Each trail leads to something different: alpine lakes, open meadows, wildlife sightings, and wildflowers in full bloom. Whether you’re after a quick stroll with the kids or a summit that’ll make your quads burn (in the best way), there’s a trail with your name on it.

While iconic hikes like Ousel Falls are a must, don’t stop there. The real Big Sky shows up when you go beyond the well-trodden routes. Try Porcupine Creek for peace and quiet, Lava Lake for its shaded trails and dramatic cliff drops, or Uplands Trail for big views without the big crowds. 

A quick note before you go: Be sure to stick to marked trails, give wildlife plenty of space, and leave the land as you found it. These places stay wild and welcoming when we all hike with care. 

Family-Friendly Fun:

Ousel Falls 

Location: Big Sky Town Center
Trailhead: Ousel Falls 
Distance: 1.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 242'

The local classic. This easy 1.7-mile out-and-back winds along the South Fork of the Gallatin to a dramatic waterfall drop. Easy elevation, big payoff. Perfect for families, first-timers, or anyone in need of a quick dose of wild. Just go early to beat the crowds and if the parking lot is full come back at another time.

For a BIG Challenge:

Storm Castle

Location: Gallatin Canyon, Custer Gallatin National Forest 
Trailhead: Storm Castle Peak Trailhead 
Distance: 4.7 miles round trip 
Elevation Gain: 1,843′ 
 
This 4.7 mile out-and-back climbs steadily to a 7,280-foot summit. It’s a tough hike, but the payoff is big—panoramic views of the Gallatin River, dense forests, and jagged peaks that define Montana’s wild side. You won’t leave the same. 

For the Adventurous:

Beehive Basin 

Location: Beehive Basin, Spanish Peaks, Lee Metcalf Wilderness, Madison Range
Trailhead: Upper Beehive Basin Trailhead - 7,900′
Distance: 6.9 round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,630′

Ask Instagram, this trail’s a star. But it earns all the hype. The 6.9-mile out-and-back trip takes you through wildflower-strewn meadows and ends in a glacial basin framed by jagged peaks. The views don’t quit, and neither will your camera roll. 

Teeming with Trout:

Golden Trout Lake 

Location: Portal Creek, Gallatin Canyon, Gallatin Range
Trailhead: Upper Portal Creek TH - 8058'
Distance: 4.5 miles round trip
Golden Trout Lakes Elevation: 9075'
Elevation Gain : 1164'

This forested trail leads to a quiet alpine lake stocked with golden trout. Pitch a tent and spend the night under Montana’s star-filled skies and gaze away. 

Born of Fire:

Lava Lake  

Location: Lava Lake Trail aka Cascade Creek Trail
Trailhead: Lava Lake Trailhead - 5525'
Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Lava Lake Elevation: 7115'
Elevation Gain: 1610'

This 5.4-mile hike follows Cascade Creek through shaded forest to a striking alpine lake formed by ancient volcanic forces. One of the most scenic (and surprising) and only non-glacially carved lake in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.

A short escape:

Uplands Trail  

Location: Big Sky Town Center
Trailhead: Uplands/Hummocks Trailhead
Distance: 2.1 miles loop
Elevation Gain: 456'

This multi-use trail starts at the far end of Aspen Leaf Drive and wanders uphill on a 2.1-mile loop that offers wide-angle views of Big Sky Town Center and the mountains beyond. It’s the go-to trail for a quick escape, a scenic warm-up, or a mid-day mental reset.

Earn the View: 

Lemonknob Loop

Location: Custer Gallatin National Forest 
Trailhead: Twins Cabin Trailhead
Distance: 3.7 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1,122'

This 3.7-mile loop is considered a challenging hike, but the payoff is big, with amazing 360-degree views of the Gallatin canyon, the Gallatin River, and the surrounding mountains. 

Be Prepared: 

We share our beautiful outdoor spaces with a variety of wildlife, including black bears and grizzly bears. Learn how to stay safe in bear country and carry bear spray.  (Bear spray rentals are available at our visitor center at 88 Ousel Falls Road, Unit B1)