Discover the Beauty of Montana: Top Autumn Hikes to Explore

Montana is completely a hiker's paradise, especially when you're lucky enough to be here in the fall. Discover the best autumn hikes in Montana with this entry guide and take the opportunity to truly experience the beauty of the autumn season. As the green leaves begin to turn copper and gold and the air turns crisp, Montana's most stunning hiking trails become even more breathtaking. From the rugged and staggering peaks of Glacier National Park to the gorgeous and rolling hills of the Bitterroot Valley, there are countless opportunities to explore the state's truly unbelievable natural beauty. Here are some of the absolute best autumn hikes in the stunning Montana to add to your bucket list.

Hike to the Top of Mount Sentinel.

One of the most popular and gorgeous hikes in Missoula, Montana, is the Mount Sentinel hike! Also lovingly referred to as the "M," Mount Sentinel offers entirely stunning views of the gorgeous city and the surrounding mountains. The trailhead for main entry is located on the University of Montana campus, and the hike is approximately 3 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1,900 feet! The trail is well-maintained, with lots of challenges and offers a delightful mix of switchbacks and steep sections. At the very top, hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding, gorgeous wilderness. This stunning hike is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves on the trees turn those vibrant shades of red, copper, orange, and mustard yellow.

Explore the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area.

The gorgeous Rattlesnake National Recreation Area is absolutely a must-visit destination for hikers visiting and indulging in Montana. With over 61,000 unbelievable acres of wilderness, this essential Montana area offers a complete variety of trails for hikers of all skill levels. One of the most popular hikes is the Rattlesnake Trail, which is approximately 5 miles round trip of gorgeous views and stunning experiences of the surrounding mountains and the Rattlesnake Creek. Another fantastic option is the Stuart Peak Trail, which is a challenging and mighty 12-mile round trip hike that rewards hikers with completely breathtaking views of the autumnal Missoula Valley. Don't miss out on the unique and exciting opportunity to explore this beautiful area during the autumn season.

Take a Scenic Stroll Along the Swan River.

For a bit more of a leisurely hike, the beautiful Swan River Trail is a great option. This 3.3-mile trail follows the beautiful and scenic Swan River and offers absolutely stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The trail itself is relatively flat and easy, which is a detail making it perfect for families with small children or those looking for a much more relaxed hike. Don't forget to bring your personal and high quality camera to capture the absolutely beautiful fall foliage and wildlife along the way.

Trek Through the Lolo National Forest.

Heading to Lolo, one of Montana's up and coming areas with a rich history, we'll encounter the Lolo National Forest. The Lolo National Forest offers truly some of the most breathtaking and unbelievable autumn hikes in Montana. The 2.7-mile Lee Creek Trail is definitely a popular choice, with its positively stunning views of the Bitterroot Mountains and vibrant fall colors. For a bit of a longer hike, try the extensive 7.5-mile Jerry Johnson Hot Springs Trail! This gorgeous and exciting trail is one which takes you through a beautiful forest and ends at a natural hot spring. Make sure to keep a close eye out for seasonal wildlife, including elk, deer, and black bears.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Glacier National Park.

Finally, we have gotten to truly one of the most fantastic places to hike and enjoy in Montana! Glacier National Park is truly a must-visit destination for any nature lover! Especially in the fall, when the leaves are changing. While this park is known for its absolutely stunning glaciers, there are also many hidden gems to discover throughout the extensive area. The Hidden Lake Trail is a 5.4-mile hike in the park that takes you to a positively beautiful alpine lake that is surrounded by mountains. The Highline Trail is another incredibly popular choice, because it offers and an adventure while simultaneously offering breathtaking views of the park's intriguing and rugged landscape. Seriously, of all places, don't forget to bring your personal camera to capture the stunning fall foliage and wildlife sightings you'll encounter while exploring Glacier National Park.