Montana is known for its wide-open spaces, rugged mountains, and endless outdoor recreation, and nowhere is that more evident than around Billings and Red Lodge. Within a short drive, hikers can experience everything from rolling prairie landscapes and sandstone rims to alpine lakes, pine forests, waterfalls, and dramatic mountain vistas.
Billings may be Montana’s largest city, but it offers surprisingly easy access to outdoor recreation. The Rimrocks that frame the city provide numerous trails with sweeping views of the Yellowstone Valley.
Popular hikes near Billings include:
Located just east of Billings, Four Dances offers scenic overlooks above the Yellowstone River with beautiful wildflowers, prairie landscapes, and dramatic rimrock cliffs. The trail is relatively short but delivers impressive views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
A favorite among locals, Phipps Park features rolling trails ideal for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. The area offers open space, sandstone formations, and expansive views overlooking the city and surrounding countryside.
One of the most accessible outdoor areas in Billings, Zimmerman Park offers quick hikes along the famous Rimrocks with panoramic views and easy trail access close to town.
About an hour southwest of Billings, Red Lodge feels like a completely different world. Nestled against the stunning Beartooth Mountains and adjacent to the vast Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Red Lodge is one of Montana’s premier outdoor recreation destinations.
The hiking opportunities around Red Lodge range from easy creekside strolls to strenuous alpine climbs.
One of the most popular trail systems near Red Lodge, Silver Run offers easy-to-moderate hiking through forested terrain alongside beautiful creeks and open meadows. The trail system is perfect for families, trail runners, and anyone looking for a relaxing outdoor experience close to town.
Known for its peaceful creekside scenery, the Lake Fork Trail offers a beautiful mountain setting with gradual elevation gain and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. It’s especially popular during summer and fall when the surrounding forest comes alive with color.
For hikers wanting more of a challenge, Basin Lakes delivers stunning alpine scenery and rewarding mountain lake views. The trail steadily climbs through dense forest before reaching beautiful high-country lakes surrounded by rugged peaks.
These trails offer excellent moderate hiking options close to town with beautiful forested terrain, aspen groves, and mountain views. They are ideal for shorter half-day adventures.
For experienced hikers, the surrounding Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness opens the door to some of the most spectacular backcountry hiking in Montana. Alpine lakes, dramatic peaks, wildflower meadows, and remote wilderness terrain create endless opportunities for adventure.
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