Discover the Best Trails Near Yellowstone National Park, Montana

For those venturing close to Yellowstone National Park on the Montana side, the landscape offers access to some of the most striking trails where rugged wilderness pushes back against the march of civilization. The best trails near Yellowstone National Park, Montana provide a raw and grounded outdoor experience, blending sweeping valleys, dense stands of lodgepole pine, and occasional glimpses of Yellowstone’s iconic geothermal features found just beyond the borders.

Start your adventure on trails like the Mystic Falls Trail, a moderate 2.4-mile route weaving past roaring cascades and shaded by towering evergreens. The path offers an easy-to-follow dirt surface with an elevation gain of just under 400 feet, making it great for a half-day excursion. Expect the sounds of rushing water daring you forward and the crisp mountain air encouraging steady breaths.

Another standout is the Elephant Back Mountain Trail, offering a steady climb of 1.5 miles to a summit with panoramic views over the Gallatin Range. At roughly 800 feet of elevation gain, it demands solid footwear and early starts to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which can sweep through the area with little warning. This trail challenges the hiker to engage with the wild’s fierce independence, where the wind tests your resolve and the path winds through spruce and fir.

For those craving a longer trek, the Lee Metcalf Wilderness presents multi-day loop options that thread through pristine meadows and along crystal-clear alpine lakes. These trails call for preparation: ample water, layered clothing, and a trusted map or GPS device. The terrain varies — from soft mossy ground to rocky river crossings — reminding hikers that even the gentlest landscape conceals its own challenges.

Practical advice: pack durable hiking boots, a hydration system that can handle 2+ liters, and be vigilant about weather shifts. Start early in the morning to maximize daylight and avoid the height of midday heat or afternoon storms. Wildlife encounters here are frequent but respectful distance is key. Bears and elk are the dominant forces roaming these forests, lending the environment a fierce dignity.

When you’re ready for more, our full site offers detailed guides on the best adventures in Yellowstone National Park, Montana. From geothermal wonders to established backcountry routes, we cover everything to ensure your journey blends excitement and safety seamlessly.

Explore the best trails near Yellowstone National Park, Montana with confidence. This region offers both approachable paths and seasoned challenges, each trail rewarding effort with landscapes that are vividly alive, fiercely natural, and open to those prepared to meet them on their terms.