Custer Gallatin National Forest Overview
Your Gateway to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Nestled in the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Custer Gallatin National Forest stretches across southern Montana, touching the Wyoming border and extending into southeastern Montana and northwestern South Dakota. Its diverse terrain encompasses portions of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, making it a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Administratively, the Custer and Gallatin National Forests merged in 2014, combining over 3 million acres of pristine wilderness. This forest offers visitors an alternative to the bustling Yellowstone National Park, showcasing stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and over 2,200 miles of hiking trails. However, its proximity to Yellowstone and Bozeman, MT means parking at popular trailheads can fill up quickly—plan ahead to make the most of your adventure.
| State | Montana; South Dakota |
| Nearest Metro Area | Bozeman, MT |
| Area Size | 3,007,645 acres |
| Established | February 10, 1899 |
| Hiking Trails | 2,290 miles |
Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Custer Gallatin National Forest
Discover some of the best hikes in Custer Gallatin National Forest that will take you through glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and awe-inspiring peaks. Whether you’re seeking a quick family outing or a multi-day backcountry trek, there’s a trail for everyone.
(*** = best hikes in Custer Gallatin National Forest)
Beehive Basin Trail #40*** – 6.4 miles out and back
A quintessential Montana hike featuring wildflower meadows, glacial lakes, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. The trail climbs steadily, gaining about 1,500 feet, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile. Start at the Upper Beehive Basin Trailhead.
Insider Tips:
- When to Go: Visit in mid-summer for peak wildflowers or early fall for crisp, clear days.
- Parking: Arrive before 8 AM to secure a spot at the Upper Beehive Basin Trailhead.
East Fork Hyalite Trail #434*** – 10.8 miles out and back
This popular trail leads to Emerald Lake and Heather Lake, with a gradual incline of 2,000 feet over 5 miles. Highlights include pristine lakes and breathtaking mountain views. Once you come to an overview of Emerald Lake, the trail splits. The trail to the left circles around the lake, and the trail to the right heads past the lake and up another half mile to Heather Lake. Arrive early to secure parking at the trailhead.
East Rosebud Trail #15 (“The Beaten Path Trail”)*** – 26.0 miles one-way
Known as “The Beaten Path,” this trail is perfect for backpackers looking to immerse themselves in the rugged Beartooth Mountains. With waterfalls, trout-filled alpine lakes, and expansive meadows, it’s one of the most scenic long-distance hikes in Montana.
Day Hike Option:
For a shorter adventure, hike 3.5 miles to Elk Lake, a perfect turnaround point for day hikers.
First Yellow Mule Trail #162 to Ousel Falls – 1.6 miles out and back
This short and scenic hike near Big Sky leads to Ousel Falls, a beautiful cascading waterfall. The trail is accessible year-round, with frozen falls creating stunning icicle formations in winter.
Pro Tip:
- Visit in the morning to avoid crowds, as the trailhead is close to Big Sky and fills quickly.
Hyalite Creek Trail #427 + Grotto Falls Trail #432*** – 16.2 miles out and back
For waterfall enthusiasts, this trail is a dream come true. The hike follows Hyalite Creek, passing more than 10 waterfalls, including the easy-to-reach Grotto Falls. For experienced hikers, the trail leads to Hyalite Lake and continues to the summit of Hyalite Peak (10,296′).
Family-Friendly Option:
Turn back at Grotto Falls for a manageable 1.5-mile roundtrip hike.
Lava Lake Trail #77*** – 5.8 miles out and back
Popular out-and-back hike to a beautiful alpine lake in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The rocky trail follows Cascade Creek through an evergreen forest passing a few waterfalls before reaching Lava Lake. Views are somewhat limited in the forest but open up as you get closer with Jumbo Mountain and Table Mountain coming into focus. Keep in mind that the trail gets busy on summer weekends so you might want to start early in the morning!
Palisade Falls Trail #433 – 1.2 miles out and back
This short, paved trail is perfect for families and is wheelchair accessible. It leads to Palisade Falls, an 80-foot cascade that’s particularly stunning in late spring when the water flow is at its peak.
Pine Creek Trail #47*** – 10.6 miles out and back
Challenging but beautiful trail to Pine Creek Lake sitting in a granite mountain cirque formed between Mt. McKnight and Black Mountain. After an easy first 1.5 miles, the trail hits a series of difficult and steep switchbacks on its way up through the forested valley. In total, hikers will ascend approximately 3,000′ in elevation in a 4 mile stretch. The hike isn’t easy but the views at the lake make it well worthwhile and a great spot to enjoy lunch before heading back to the trailhead.
Sacagawea Pass Trail #518 to Sacagawea Peak – 4.6 miles out and back
This trail begins at Fairy Lake Campground and climbs to Sacagawea Peak, the highest point in the Bridger Range (9,665′). Along the way, you’ll pass through a glacial cirque and enjoy expansive views of the surrounding valleys.
Wildlife Spotting:
- Keep an eye out for mountain goats, which are frequently seen near the summit.
Storm Castle Mountain Trail #92 – 4.8 miles out and back
Moderately difficult but quick trail but to the summit of Storm Castle, aka Castle Rock. The rocky peak sits atop the east wall of Gallatin Canyon and offers amazing panoramic views of the surrounding area including Garnet Mountain to the south. The 1,800′ ascent in under 2.5 miles can be challenging but the nice part about this trail is that there are great views to look at the entire way, not just at the end.
West Rosebud Trail #19 – 11.4 miles out and back
This is a popular daytrip offering spectacular views of Mystic Lake. This is one of two popular routes which provide access to Granite Peak (12,799′), the highest peak in Montana. From the trailhead, Mystic Lake is 3 miles and the bridge over Huckleberry Creek is 5.7. Beyond Huckleberry Creek, you can cross a log jam to continue to Island and Silver Lakes. The log jam can be slippery and the trail beyond is not maintained.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing family hike or a challenging backcountry trek, Custer Gallatin National Forest offers something for everyone.
Featured Image: Custer Gallatin National Forest: Emigrant Peak, Photo by Yellowstone National Park
Don’t forget to stock up on the essentials before you plan your next hiking or camping trip! We have recommendations on:
TENTS
HIKING BOOTS
AND MORE!