Must hikes in Big Sky, Montana

Hiking season is upon us! If you enjoy having your breath taken away, literally and figuratively, please take a moment to check out some of my favorite hikes in my favorite mountain town.

Ousel Falls, Big Sky Resort, Storm Castle, Beehive Basin Trailhead, Lava Lake Trailhead, Porcupine Creek

• Ousel Falls in Big Sky, United States

  
  skipper

  Ousel Falls hike is one of the easiest and most accessible hikes in the area. It is approximately 1 mile round trip. Due to that, expect high amounts of traffic. You would think it would be more accessible for elders or youth. But it is still quite steep and often has fallen trees. This is also definitely a bear frequented area in the spring time. Be loud, don't hike alone. Again, please stay on the trail to prevent erosion in this high traffic area! If the ground is snowy or icy still, your going to want micro spikes for your shoes. The best time to see the falls is when the ground is white and the falls are frozen solid. Seriously a sight to see.

• Big Sky Resort in Big Sky, United States

  
  skipper

  In the summer time the resort is open primarily for Mountain biking and the trails have been recreated as such. Many of the trails are turned into hiking trails as well. Make sure you are on the correct trail for the activity you are doing. Yes, bear spray! The grizzlies roam all over the resort in the summer time. If you dare hike up to the peak on a perfect day, you will face rigorous gravel and Ridgeline hikes in full sun exposure. Bring plenty of water as it's a long way to the peak. But at 11,166 ft elevation.. The views are bound to be killer!

• Storm Castle, United States

  
  skipper

  This is a quick but strenuous hike. On a sunny day it will be full sun exposure for almost the entire 3 mile hike. Wear sunscreen, stay on the trail, leave no trace and enjoy the breathtaking views at the top.

• Beehive Basin Trailhead in Gallatin Gateway, United States

  
  skipper

  A very popular hike these days, get there early to get parking. The road is windy, poorly maintained and steep. If there is any kind of weather, best if its 4WD. Go in when the wildflowers are in bloom. Breath taking views, meadows and lakes the whole way up. If the snow melt is on and it looks like there's blood in the snow... Don't be alarmed. I was when I first saw it. We ended up getting back and finding out later that it is Red Algae aka High altitude algae. this natural phenom is also found in the alps!

• Lava Lake Trailhead in Gallatin Gateway, United States

  
  skipper

  Beautiful shaded hike up the mountain that leads to a picturesque lake! The road in Gallatin Canyon is getting very busy. Please drive respectfully and use extreme caution in the turn out. This can be one of the most dangerous parking spots due to the traffic and sharp turn. Don't worry... The views are worth it!

• Porcupine Creek, United States

  
  skipper

  Look for the porcupine trailhead. No service once you get to the trailhead. Bring your bear spray. Be Bear Aware and practice Leave no Trace principles!