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Jan 31, 2020

If you want to dive into the hiking opportunities the Great Falls, Montana, area has to offer, you have your work cut out for you. There are many hiking destinations you should check off your list, whether you’re looking for a good workout or simply a quiet escape from the city. We suggest starting with these great locations:

Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex

One of the most popular places to hike in the Great Falls area is the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. Though we say it’s popular, you may be hard-pressed to find another human in its over one million acres. This area was set aside in 1941 and has been a haven for outdoors people ever since.

In this area, you’ll find a great many geological features, terrains, and ecosystems to explore. Waterfalls, meadows with winding streams, jutting cliffs, forests, and more await those who are willing to make the 60-mile drive west of Great Falls. We suggest giving yourself a couple of days to explore as much of the natural area as you can.

River’s Edge Trail

If you’re looking for a trail nearer Great Falls, check out the River’s Edge Trail. It’s a 27.2-mile out-and-back trail that travels from Whittier Park to Ryan Dam. It’s a paved trail, but it’s a great opportunity to see some of the area’s wildlife, including various bird species and fish in both the hatchery and in the river that the trail follows. If you want to visit Giant Springs State Park, this trail will take you there. If you’re looking for a path that lends itself well to trail-running, River’s Edge Trail is an excellent choice.

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Just north of Great Falls, you’ll find the Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge. This beautiful natural area is perfect for seeing the flora and fauna of central Montana. There are two places you can hike at the refuge: on the Prairie Marsh Wildlife Drive year-round or on Lower Marsh Road and Unit IVb Trail until waterfowl hunting season. There are over 200 bird species that call this area home, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get some bird-watching in during your hike.

Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

If you’re looking for another massive hiking destination, start exploring the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. Just south of Great Falls, this national forest is a great place to find a hike, especially if you want to make a multi-day camping trip out of it. Stop by the Forest Service Office for information about where to find the best hikes at the time of year you’re visiting the park. If you take your hikes seriously, you’ll love this hiking destination.

With you live in a state that offers as many beautiful natural sights as Montana does, not taking a hike every now and then would be a disservice. Strap on your boots, get outside, and start exploring everything the Great Falls area has to offer to those who want to get closer to nature.

Image via pixabay