Underrated National Forest Hikes in Montana That Rival Glacier’s Highl…

If you’ve lived in or explored Montana for any length of time, you know that the weather here—and the scenery—can shift dramatically in no time at all. From the state that brought you the rugged valleys of West Yellowstone and the jaw-dropping peaks of the Beartooths, you’ll also find ancient Badlands, sky-high waterfalls, and some wickedly cool rock formations, all just waiting to be explored by adventurous hikers. It’s no secret, however, that many of Montana’s most coveted bucket list trails can be found in Glacier National Park, including (arguably) the park’s most iconic: the Highline Trail. This breathtaking hike is one in a million, but it can also be a tad out of reach for novice hikers and those without backcountry know-how. Fortunately, Montana’s national forests are packed with spectacular trails that boast impeccable sights of their own, often with a little more accessibility.

1. Mount Aeneas Summit Trail/Jewel Basin

One of the best parts of Glacier’s Highline Trail is the feeling of being on top of the world, and Mount Aeneas offers a similar feeling. After all, when you’re named after a literal mythological hero and set within a basin named after precious gemstones, you can’t go wrong. Jewel Basin is a stunning hiking area with numerous must-do trails for every age and ability, but Aeneas is the highest peak here at 7,528 feet. The summit offers expansive panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, gorgeous trailside wildflowers, and a phenomenal view of Birch Lake (which is also worth a visit). You can access the challenging 5.9-mile Mount Aeneas Summit Trail from the Switchback Trailhead or explore other equally magical trails in the hiking area as well, like the Flathead Lookout Trail, the lush Picnic Lakes Trail, or any other number of options within the 27-lake Jewel Basin system.

2. Holland Lake and Falls Trail

Even in one of the most beautiful states in the country, not every hike has to be an uphill slog to get to the “good” stuff. Holland Lake is gorgeous on its own, but add on the pretty little 3.1-mile Holland Falls Trail, which wraps around the lake and leads straight to a towering, veil-like waterfall, and you have all the makings of a picture-perfect outing without breaking too much of a sweat.

3. Blodgett Canyon Trail

Easily one of my favorite hikes in Montana, Blodgett Canyon is always a joy to experience. While it’s become more overgrown in recent years, there’s still a LOT to love for the first few miles—just don’t be deterred by the 22-mile stat on AllTrails! You can easily choose your own adventure here and modify the length as needed, whether that be bushwhacking your way to Blodgett Lake, waterfall hunting along the trail, taking your time to enjoy the impossibly balanced rock formations, or dipping your toes in Blodgett Creek. With dramatic granite canyon walls reminiscent of Yosemite and multiple alpine lakes and waterfalls to photograph along the way, you can enjoy this scenic canyon trail as a gorgeous day hike or as a longer backpacking journey.

4. Mystic Lake/West Rosebud Trail

Hiding in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, the moody and secluded Mystic Lake is easily one of the most photographed lakes in the state outside GNP, and it comes bursting at the seams with rugged beauty and massive sights that will make you feel dwarfed in comparison. This spectacular alpine lake sits beneath towering Beartooth peaks and seems to stretch for miles (because it does), but it feels especially massive when you’re on the shore. The 6-mile trail to get here gets technical in some areas with loose rock, so poles will come in handy.

5. Helmet & Sphinx Mountain Trail

Along Montana’s Highline Trail, you’ll notice a few things off in the distance; specifically, some very prominent peaks and rock formations. While Montana has plenty of cool rock formations up its sleeve, it doesn’t get much more recognizable than Sphinx Mountain in the Madison Range if you’re looking for a similar experience to Highline. This blocky hunk of rock is rimmed by treacherous-looking cobblestone cliffs and surrounded by Indian Canyon and Bear Creek. It’s a popular rock climbing spot, but as far as hiking goes, the trail is pretty underrated, likely due to the challenge. A hefty dose of elevation gain (almost 4,000 feet), loose scree, and little tree cover make this a bucket list hike for those with the stamina.

6. Lava Lake Trail

It almost doesn’t seem fair how many stunning lakes Montana has. And yet, every time you think you’ve found the *best* one, you hike another trail and discover a new favorite. The 5.5-mile Lava Lake Trail shows off multiple sides of Montana. On the one hand, it boasts some of the clearest, most pristine water outside of GNP. On the other hand, it’s a rocky trek to get here with multiple water crossings and spectacular views. It’s the best of both worlds, and a pretty romantic spot at that.

7. Trout Creek Canyon

Craving some drama? The spectacular Trout Creek Canyon hike takes you on a steady, but moderate, incline through a heavily forested area where you’ll be surrounded by beautiful limestone rock formations and creeks the entire way. And, at only 6.1 miles round-trip, it’s doable for just about anyone. However, in addition to phenomenal views, you’ll also encounter a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, so stay alert.

8. Leigh Lake

Waterfalls? Check. Wildlife? Check. Calf gains? Of course, this is Montana after all! Immerse yourself in Montana’s rugged Cabinet Mountains Wilderness without stepping into backpacking territory on the short and sweet trail to Leigh Lake. Just note that “short and sweet” doesn’t necessarily mean easy! Even at only 2.7 miles, it gains a whopping 1,100 feet in elevation, so don’t be surprised if you feel the burn along the way.

9. Bass Creek Trail

While much of the Highline Trail is, as implied, high above the valley floor, these iconic viewpoints are just a small portion of its beauty. The Bass Creek Trail is a creek-side corridor hike that winds through pristine wilderness and mountain scenery, much like the lower sections of Highline. You’ll discover beautiful multi-tiered waterfalls, abundant wildlife, the gorgeous Bass Lake, and plenty of shade along the way. However, as a wilderness forest trail, the journey isn’t without its challenges. Be prepared for wet boots on this 16-mile journey, but don’t feel the need to go all the way to the lake if you’re not feeling up to it.

10. Chinese Wall

Not for the faint of heart, the Chinese Wall in the Bob Marshall Wilderness is one of the coolest natural wonders in Montana. And in many ways, it’s also a near-dupe to the Highline Trail experience with its towering cliff faces. Soaring 1,000 feet above the valley floor, this 12-mile escarpment is as dramatic as they come, and the area is full of deep creek and river crossings, vibrant meadows, dense forests, and even some scrambling. Exploring here is a multi-day backpacking adventure that might just test your limits, but it shows off a side of Montana that few get to see.

With so many larger-than-life natural wonders filling every corner of the state, Big Sky Country is a humbling reminder of just how impressive Mother Nature truly is. If you’re ready for your next adventure, lace up and head out—Montana’s great outdoors is waiting.