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Gallatin National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · MT

Gallatin National Forest

Gallatin National Forest offers vast wilderness, rugged landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in Montana.

National Forest2.1 million4+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

2.1 million

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Gallatin National Forest

Gallatin National Forest offers vast wilderness, rugged landscapes, and diverse ecosystems, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in Montana.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in southwestern Montana, Gallatin National Forest spans approximately 2.1 million acres and features a diverse range of landscapes, from dense forests and river valleys to alpine meadows and rugged peaks. The forest is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, elk, moose, and wolves, contributing to its reputation as a prime area for wildlife viewing. Historically, this forest has been a significant area for Native American tribes and early explorers. The forest offers a wealth of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and winter sports, thanks to its vast network of trails and proximity to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Notable landmarks include the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and the Spanish Peaks. The forest's scenic beauty and abundant recreational opportunities make it a highly appealing destination for visitors worldwide.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Gallatin National Forest

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

Majestic Landscapes of Custer Gallatin National Forest★ 8.7⌖ 4 miHiking
Custer Gallatin National Forest

Majestic Landscapes of Custer Gallatin National Forest

Explore the expansive Custer Gallatin National Forest, located near Bozeman, Montana. Known for its rugged beauty, this area offers diverse hiking opportunities with stunning mountain views and rich wildlife, including elk and grizzly bears. Ideal for adventure seekers.

Nature's Oasis: Gallatin National Forest★ 8.8⌖ 14 miHiking
Gallatin National Forest

Nature's Oasis: Gallatin National Forest

Explore the vast Gallatin National Forest near Bozeman, Montana. With its majestic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and activities like hiking and fishing, it appeals to adventure seekers. Accessible primarily by driving, enjoy the scenery especially in spring and fall.

Mountain Tranquility: Tom Miner Campground★ 8.2⌖ 20 miWildlife Viewing
Tom Miner Campground

Mountain Tranquility: Tom Miner Campground

Explore Tom Miner Campground near Emigrant, MT. Enjoy wildlife viewing and scenic hikes, with nearby Pine Creek Trail offering a waterfall and vibrant wildflowers. Best visited in spring and fall for solitude and stunning nature experiences.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Hike: Yellowstone’s Living Canvas★ 8.8⌖ 20 miHiking
Mammoth Terraces Trail

Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Hike: Yellowstone’s Living Canvas

Explore the Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Hike in Yellowstone National Park. This easy, 1.75-mile trail features geothermal wonders and wildlife like elk and coyotes. Perfect for families and photographers, it offers year-round access with stunning, colorful terraces.

Nature's Palette: Mammoth Hot Springs★ 9.2⌖ 20 miGeothermal Viewing
Mammoth Hot Springs

Nature's Palette: Mammoth Hot Springs

Explore Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone, known for its stunning travertine terraces. Enjoy scenic drives, boardwalk trails, and wildlife watching. Best visited in quieter spring and fall seasons.

Geothermal ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Lone Peak, a striking and accessible mountain offering panoramic views.✦ Rich wildlife viewing opportunities, including grizzly bears and elk.✦ The Gallatin River, famous for its world-class fly fishing.✦ The Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, offering some of the most rugged terrain in the contiguous United States.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Gallatin 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 Gallatin National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required; fees apply for developed campgrounds.

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 Gallatin National Forest

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

Greek Creek Campground

Offering serene settings along the Gallatin River, perfect for fishing enthusiasts.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Gallatin National Forest

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

Chico Hot Springs
⌖ 5.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Chico Hot Springs, Montana

A historic mountain retreat offering natural hot springs and gateway access to diverse outdoor adventures in Montana’s scenic Yellowstone region.

Late Spring through Early Fall for hiking and fishing; Winter for skiingExplore Town
Pray
⌖ 7.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pray, Montana

A quiet gateway into Montana’s rugged west, offering world-class river recreation, sweeping mountain views, and a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and authentic wilderness.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Emigrant
⌖ 7.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Emigrant, Montana

A gateway community to the vast wilderness of the Yellowstone region, offering a quiet, rustic feel with easy access to hiking, fishing, and backcountry adventures.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Mammoth
⌖ 19.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mammoth, Wyoming

A gateway to Yellowstone's enchanting wilderness with great access to natural wonders and thrilling outdoor adventures.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Livingston
⌖ 28.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Livingston, Montana

A charming frontier town with rich access to the adventurous outdoors, offering scenic landscapes and thrilling activities.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Big Sky
⌖ 29.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Big Sky, Montana

A gateway to thrilling outdoor experiences, where expansive wilderness meets exhilarating adventure.

Winter and SummerExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Gallatin 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.