REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: TROY | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Join us for a scenic hike along the Old Highway 2 trail to Shannon Lake. Our route features fantastic views of Kootenai Falls and the river valley. We'll stop to identify plants and wildflowers along the way, including several wildflower varieties near Shannon Lake that are harder to find without a steeper or longer hike. There is a short scramble up to the lake, but the trail is otherwise gradual and wide, with a few interpretive displays about the history of the old road and area. Spring is the best and most bountiful wildflower time along this accessible and enjoyable trail. We'll end early enough for participants to explore the adjacent Kootenai Falls and Swinging Bridge afterward if they want to.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: BILLINGS | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Are you looking to explore Billing's wild backyard? The Acton Recreation Area is a great place to start. Join us for a hike through the area's badlands, bluffs and sparse ponderosa pines. We'll keep an eye out for wildlife and share suggestions for outdoor opportunities at other BLM recreation areas near Billings.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: KALISPELL | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Join Glacier Queer Alliance and Wild Montana for an evening hike to the top of Lone Pine State Park. We'll saunter up the Lone Pine Trail, gradually gaining elevation through open forest before reaching the rocky summit.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: BELT| DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS
The views at Sluice Boxes State Park are tough to beat. Hiking through the canyon carved by Belt Creek is an inspiring experience. Highlights include views of cave-pocketed limestone cliffs, resident bald eagles, and archaeological artifacts from past mining. Our hike will follow the upper trail, which means wonderful views into the canyon and none of the creek crossings found on lower routes. This out-and-back hike includes some steep pitches and dramatic exposure at the start (and end) before leveling off to a more relaxed stroll.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: BOZEMAN | DIFFICULTY: EASY
Like many towns in Montana, Bozeman's water supply emanates from the wild country surrounding it. Wild Montana's work to protect our headwaters is only one part of the equation in ensuring healthy water resources. Join us for a tour of Bozeman's Water Treatment Plant to gain a better understanding of how clean water makes its way to our communities and how we can all be better stewards of our watersheds.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: HELENA | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS
A short drive from downtown Helena, the Scratchies are home to numerous multi-use trails with true Big Sky views. Join us for a hike along the Scratch Gravel Hills' "upper loop," which includes travel through Iowa Gulch and to the top of South Peak. We'll enjoy lunch atop a peak as we take in views of the Mighty Mo, Sleeping Giant, and Continental Divide.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: BONNER | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Join us for a mellow hike to Primm Meadow, where we'll enjoy exploring 100 acres of old ponderosa pine forest along the West Fork of Gold Creek, returning to the trailhead after lunch.
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NEAREST TOWN: PRYOR| DIFFICULTY: EASY
Join Wild Montana for a ranger-led tour of Chief Plenty Coup State Park. Located just 40 minutes south of Billings, this National Historic Landmark preserves the log home, sacred spring, and farmstead of Chief Plenty Coups. We'll visit those sites as we learn about the life of this remarkable man and his efforts to lead his people into bridging the gap between two cultures.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: MISSOULA | DIFFICULTY: EASY
Learn about the invasive species taking root in Missoula's North Hills! We'll take a short stroll from the Sunlight Trailhead on Duncan Drive, identifying Dalmatian toadflax, spotted knapweed, and leafy spurge. Along the way, we'll discuss the problems these invasive species pose to the ecosystem. Then, we'll get our hands dirty by pulling and bagging knapweed to remove from the landscape.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: MISSOULA | DIFFICULTY: EXTREMELY STRENUOUS
Spring into summer with an iconic Missoula hike: Mt. Sentinel. Our 6.4-mile loop will include strides aside the Clark Fork, a climb up the Hellgate Canyon Trail, and an eventual summit of Mt. Sentinel. This outing is part of the Shining Mountain Chapter's Spring into Summer event.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: MISSOULA | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Spring into summer with a hike in the Rattlesnake. From the Sawmill Gulch trailhead, we'll hike the Fenceline Trail to an overlook of the Grant Creek drainage. From there, we'll loop back on one of two trails depending on our timeline and desires. This outing is part of the Shining Mountain Chapter's Spring into Summer event.
REGISTRATION OPEN
NEAREST TOWN: MISSOULA | DIFFICULTY: EASY
In the springtime, Mount Jumbo is a beloved destination of Missoulians for good reason. Sun-kissed aspects burst with arrowleaf balsamroot and the lupine stand just as tall as their colors are vibrant. Join us for a moderate loop hike where we'll pause to take in the beauty of spring's wildflowers and teach you what's what.
The Flathead-Kootenai Chapter meets on the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. (online for now). All are welcome! Email flathead.kootenai@wildmontana.org for more information.
Join Political & State Policy Director Noah Marion and Kendra Miller from Montanans for Election Reform to learn how CI-126 and CI-127, two constitutional citizen initiatives, will restore freedom, choice, and accountability to Montana's elections.
Wild Montana’s Shining Mountains Chapter is excited to present an evening with Chris Prange of the Great Burn Conservation Alliance and Zack Schlanger of the Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation, who will present their work with invasive plants in the backcountry.
The Southwestern Wildlands Chapter supports the organization’s mission by providing community outreach and education that inspire residents of Butte-Silverbow, Beaverhead, and Deer Lodge Counties to protect wild public lands and waters in the southwest corner of the state, including the Anacondas, Pintlers, West Big Hole, East Pioneers, West Pioneer wilderness study area, Lima Peaks, Italian Peaks, Snowcrests, and 10 wilderness study areas along the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.
We’re hosting our second annual Wild Montana Dinner & Jamboree, and we want you to join us for a hootin' and hollerin' good time! Guests will enjoy a welcome reception with beer, wine, and games, followed by trivia, storytelling, and a live auction of rewarding experiences. Missoula's Bravo Catering will provide appetizers, dinner and dessert. Seating is limited and tickets are sure to go fast. Get yours today!
Get psyched for the summer outdoor season by joining the Shining Mountains Chapter for a local hike and a barbecue at Silver Park on Saturday, May 18.