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Big Sky, Montana

Looking for the best backpacking in Big Sky? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Big Sky. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Backpacking Spots in and near Big Sky

  • Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    Beehive Basin Trail No. 40

    5.0
    7.01 mi / 1601 ft gain
    Beehive Basin Trail No. 40 is an out-and-back trail that takes you by a lake located near Big Sky, Montana.
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  • Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    Hike to Lava Lake

    5.0
    6 mi / 1600 ft gain
    The 6 mile round trip to Lava Lake is a steady climb that runs beside Cascade Creek through the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The trail starts at the Gallatin River and continues upward through dense evergreen forest. There are no confusing intersections but is quite rocky and considered to be moderate...
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  • Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    Hike to Golden Trout Lakes

    4.0
    5 mi / 1300 ft gain
    The Golden Trout lakes offer a scenic getaway just out of the Gallatin Valley Canyon. To access the trail head, turn east onto Portal Creek Road #984 and continue southeast for 6.8 miles. The road is in rough condition and is better suited for vehicles with a higher clearance. The trail head is e...
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  • Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    Hike to Garnet Mountain Lookout

    5.0
    7.7 mi / 2800 ft gain
    Starting in Bozeman, travel south of Gallatin Gateway about 5 miles on Hwy 191 and turn left on to Storm Castle Creek Road. Follow this road for about 3.5 miles until the road ends. At this point, there is a decent sized parking area. The trail is open year round with ATV access and also snowmobi...
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  • Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    Backpack the Gallatin Crest Trail

    42 mi / 6000 ft gain
    There are some different options for starting and ending this hike, but the route I did started at Buffalo Horn Trailhead and ends at the Hyalite Creek Trailhead, and is approximately 42 miles total. I did the trail over the course of three and a half days, spending three nights in the backcountr...
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