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Custer-Gallatin National Forest wilderness guide
National Forest · MT, WY

Custer-Gallatin National Forest

Custer-Gallatin National Forest is a vast expanse of wilderness in Montana and Wyoming, known for its diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.

National Forest3 million4+ Trails

Designation

National Forest

Total Wilderness Area

3 million

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Custer-Gallatin National Forest

Custer-Gallatin National Forest is a vast expanse of wilderness in Montana and Wyoming, known for its diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor recreation opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Custer-Gallatin National Forest, sprawling over approximately 3 million acres across Montana and Wyoming, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The forest encompasses a wide range of landscapes, from the majestic peaks of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness to the rolling prairies and dense forests, providing a patchwork of ecosystems supporting diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and elk. Historically, the area has been significant for Native American tribes and played a role in the expansion of the American frontier. Recreational opportunities abound with hundreds of miles of trails catering to hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. In winter, the snowy landscapes transform into a playground for skiing and snowshoeing. Noteworthy landmarks such as the iconic Beartooth Highway offer breathtaking scenic drives, while the site of the Battle of the Little Bighorn offers a window into the region's rich history.

Field Guide · National Forest
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Custer-Gallatin National Forest

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

Nature's Oasis: Gallatin National Forest★ 8.8⌖ 5 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.

Tranquil Escape to Golden Trout Lake★ 8.2⌖ 12 miFishing
Golden Trout Lake

Tranquil Escape to Golden Trout Lake

Explore Golden Trout Lake in Gallatin Gateway, MT. Known for fishing and wildlife watching, this remote location offers tranquility and stunning natural views. Best visited in spring and summer, it's a top spot for photographers seeking peaceful, pristine landscapes.

Mountain Tranquility: Tom Miner Campground★ 8.2⌖ 13 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→
Majestic Landscapes of Custer Gallatin National Forest★ 8.7⌖ 14 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.

Serenity by the Stream: Deer Creek Trailhead★ 7.8⌖ 14 miHiking
Deer Creek Trailhead

Serenity by the Stream: Deer Creek Trailhead

Explore Deer Creek Trailhead near Gallatin Gateway, MT, offering access to scenic trails along the Gallatin River. Great for hiking, fishing, and wildlife photography. Visit in spring or fall for optimal conditions. Early mornings provide excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Beartooth Highway✦ Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness✦ Battle of the Little Bighorn site✦ Fairy Lake
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Custer-Gallatin National Forest

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Snow Sports

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Climbing

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Custer-Gallatin National Forest
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-Gallatin National Forest.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees are required, but permits are needed for some activities.

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-Gallatin National Forest

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

Hyalite Canyon Campground

Located near Hyalite Reservoir, this campground offers easy access to multiple trails and water activities.

Palisades Campground

A more rustic camping option located near the West Boulder River, ideal for a secluded experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Custer-Gallatin National Forest

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

Emigrant
⌖ 10.13 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
Pray
⌖ 10.67 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
Chico Hot Springs
⌖ 11.16 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
Big Sky
⌖ 19.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Big Sky, Montana

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

Winter and SummerExplore Town
Big Sky
⌖ 19.44 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Big Sky, Montana

A vibrant mountain town that fuses expansive wilderness with thrilling year-round outdoor activities.

Winter and SummerExplore Town
Mammoth
⌖ 24.22 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Custer-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.