Wildflower season is a magical time, transforming our mountain landscape into a vibrant masterpiece. Big Sky is home to a large number of native wildflower species.
A leisurely hike or even a quick bike ride will reveal a kaleidoscope of hues along the trails. It's the perfect excuse to slow down, breathe in that fresh mountain air, and soak up the incredible natural beauty. And trust us, you'll want to bring your camera – the wildflowers of Big Sky usually hit their peak in late spring through mid-summer (June - July), turning our hillsides into living art.
From brilliant whites and serene blues to sunny yellows, cheerful pinks, fiery reds, and deep purples, these natural splashes of color are more than just pretty. They're a reminder of the wild heart of Montana and one of the many reasons we love spending time outside.
There are hundreds of different wildflowers that grow naturally in Big Sky County. Here are a few that you're likely to see on your next adventure:
Lupine
Lupine | Pixabay Image
Mountain Harebell
Mountain Harebells | Pixabay Image
Indian Paintbrush
Indian Paintbrush | Pixabay Image
Glacier Lily
Glacier Lily | Jonathan Stone
Asters
Aster | Pixabay Image
Arrowleaf Balsamroot
Keep an eye out for other gems too, such as elephant's head, iris, bluebells, wild rose, Jacob's ladder, sticky geranium, larkspur, pasque flower, and many more. Carrying a local wildflower guidebook can be a fun way to identify these special plants as you go – it’s like a treasure hunt!
If you'd like to learn more about the local flora, great resources like Montana.Plant-Life.org are super helpful. Or, pick up a physical guide like Wildflowers Of Montana by Donald Anthony Schiemann from a local shop.
Not sure where to find wildflowers? Here is our quick list of local hikes to spot wildflowers:
- Beehive Basin: Famous for its stunning alpine lake and incredible wildflower meadows.
- Cinnamon Mountain: Offers sweeping views and beautiful blooms.
- Bear Basin: A more secluded feel with plenty of natural beauty.
- Storm Castle Peak: A more challenging hike with rewarding vistas and diverse flora.
- Windy Pass: True to its name, but often rich with high-alpine wildflowers.
- Uplands Trail: An excellent option for a more accessible stroll close to town center with plenty to see.
And wildflower enthusiasts won't want to miss the Big Sky Wildflower Festival in July. A week of learning and creativity, featuring educational talks, hands-on workshops, and plenty of opportunities to explore and learn on Big Sky's trails.
So, when you're here, make sure to carve out some time to hit the trails during wildflower season and watch our hillsides come alive with natural color. It's truly amazing, and a core part of what makes Big Sky, Big Sky.
P.S. If you capture a stunning shot of a wildflower, we'd love to see it! Be sure to share it on social media with the hashtag #VisitBigSky.