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Custer National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · MT, SD

Custer National Forest

Custer National Forest spans over southeastern Montana and portions of South Dakota, offering diverse landscapes perfect for a variety of outdoor activities.

National Forest1,190,9224+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

1,190,922

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Custer National Forest

Custer National Forest spans over southeastern Montana and portions of South Dakota, offering diverse landscapes perfect for a variety of outdoor activities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Custer National Forest, known as 'The Forest of Grasslands,' stretches across southeastern Montana and portions of South Dakota. Its unique geography includes extensive grasslands, rugged mountains, and dense forests, making it a rich habitat for wildlife such as elk, deer, bear, and numerous bird species. Historically, the forest served as a hunting ground for Native American tribes and played a role in the region's early logging activities. Today, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, camping, mountain biking, and fishing. Visitors are drawn to the stunning Beartooth Mountains and the grasslands of the Ashland area. Whether exploring the granite peaks or traversing endless trails, Custer National Forest promises adventure with its natural beauty and vast recreational opportunities. It remains a popular destination for visitors seeking tranquility and the unmatched allure of the great outdoors.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Custer National Forest

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Conquering Granite Peak: A Montana Adventure★ 8.5⌖ 5 miClimbing
Granite Peak, SW Ramp / Couloir TH

Conquering Granite Peak: A Montana Adventure

Granite Peak near Cooke City, MT, is an extreme climb in the Beartooth Mountains, offering a rugged 12-mile route for adventure seekers. Expect rock and snow climbing with spectacular views. Best in late summer and requires a permit.

Mountain Majesty at Granite Peak, Montana★ 8.4⌖ 7 miMountaineering
Granite Peak

Mountain Majesty at Granite Peak, Montana

Granite Peak, Montana's highest point, offers an extreme mountaineering challenge with steep granite routes and alpine terrain. Located near Red Lodge, this remote peak rewards experienced climbers and hikers with wildflower meadows, wildlife viewing, and scenic mountain vistas during summer.

MountaineeringView Details→
Lower Lady of the Lake: A Tranquil Retreat★ 8.7⌖ 7 miHiking
Lower Lady of the Lake Trailhead

Lower Lady of the Lake: A Tranquil Retreat

Explore Lower Lady of the Lake Trailhead in Silver Gate, Montana. This tranquil spot offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities in a serene setting. Best visited in spring or fall, it's a perfect escape for adventurers seeking solitude and scenic beauty.

Camping at Colter Campground★ 8.2⌖ 7 miCamping
Colter Campground

Camping at Colter Campground

Enjoy camping at Colter Campground near Cooke City, MT. Perfect for wildlife watching and hiking in the Beartooth Mountains. Best visited late spring to early fall, this scenic area offers quiet solitude and picturesque views along the Beartooth Highway.

Nature's Retreat at Clarks Fork Picnic Area★ 7.2⌖ 8 miHiking
Clarks Fork Picnic Area

Nature's Retreat at Clarks Fork Picnic Area

Explore Clarks Fork Picnic Area near Red Lodge, Montana. Enjoy hiking, wildlife observation, and fishing along the scenic Clarks Fork River. Ideal in spring and summer for family picnics and outdoor relaxation.

Winter Wonderland at Bannock Trail Trailhead★ 8.5⌖ 9 miSnowshoeing
Bannock Trail Trailhead

Winter Wonderland at Bannock Trail Trailhead

Explore Bannock Trail Trailhead near Silver Gate, MT. Ideal for snowshoeing enthusiasts, this location offers peaceful snowy trails and wildlife watching opportunities. Best visited in winter, it's a quiet spot for nature photography.

SnowshoeingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Beartooth Highway - A scenic road offering breathtaking views.✦ Granite Peak - The highest point in Montana and a challenging climb.✦ Ashland Ranger District - Known for its expansive grasslands and wildlife.✦ West Fork Rock Creek - A serene spot for camping and fishing.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Custer National Forest

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Custer National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees are typically required, but specific areas may have fees or permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Custer National Forest

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Mystic Lake Campground

Offers remote camping with stunning lake views and access to Mystic Lake Trail.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Custer National Forest

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Silver Gate
⌖ 8.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Silver Gate, Montana

A charming gateway to Yellowstone with rustic appeal and abundant wilderness adventures.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Nye
⌖ 22.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Nye, Montana

A secluded gateway to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, perfect for those seeking rugged outdoor adventures and solitude.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Roscoe
⌖ 26.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Roscoe, Montana

A hidden gem in Montana offering authentic wilderness experiences in the Absaroka-Beartooth Mountains.

Fishtail
⌖ 30.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fishtail, Montana

A remote gateway to exploring the rugged beauty of Montana, offering solitude and adventure in the Beartooth Mountains.

Red Lodge
⌖ 33.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Red Lodge, Montana

A charming gateway to the Beartooth Mountains offering abundant year-round outdoor adventures and rugged mountain scenery.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Absarokee
⌖ 36.26 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Absarokee, Montana

A gateway to Montana's scenic mountains and rivers offering authentic outdoor experiences with a laid-back, rural charm.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Custer National Forest

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.