Epic New Year’s Hikes In Montana
I wonder if someone forgot to inform Mother Nature it's supposed to be winter in Montana.
But if we have the mild weather, we might as well get outside and enjoy it!
Here are some great New Year's Day hikes in the Treasure State.
On Jan. 1, Montana State Parks will host First Day Hikes at various State Parks throughout Montana.
These fun and informative hikes are open to all ages and are family-friendly.
Flathead Lake State Park (Big Arm, Wayfarers, and West Shore Units)
Join the Challenge: Mileage Competition and Activities
Explore the diverse wonders of Flathead Lake State Park's units—Big Arm, Wayfarers, and West Shore—in a thrilling mileage competition.
Every step, bike ride, or ski trail contributes to your park's victory!
The competition runs from Jan. 1 to Jan. 3, with top mileage earners at each unit winning prizes.
Log your miles at trailheads and snap activity photos to earn points for prizes.
Check stateparks.mt.gov for activity lists and point allocations to maximize your chances.
Lone Pine State Park
Just 5 miles southwest of Kalispell, discover vivid valley views and 7.5 miles of trails. Encounter wildlife and bird tracks in January.
Somers Beach State Park
Guided Hike: Jan. 1, 10 a.m.
Limited to 20 participants for a 1-mile, 1.5-hour hike. Call 406-751-5423 for details.
Council Grove State Park
Scenic Hike: Jan. 1, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Enjoy a 3-mile round trip hike. All ages welcome. Contact 406-210-4335 for info.
Missouri Headwaters State Park
Fort Rock Tour: Jan. 1, 11 a.m.
Explore 1-2 miles with great river views. Call 406-285-3610 for details.
First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park
Historical Hike: Jan. 1, 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Discover the 3-mile trail's history. Dial 406-866-2217 for more information.
Spring Meadow Lake State Park
Informative Hike: Jan. 1, 10 a.m.
Learn about Spring Meadow's history. Contact 406-495-3270 for details.
Lake Elmo State Park
Urban Winter Hike: Jan. 1, 1 p.m.
Explore a 1.4-mile hike in an urban winter setting. Call 406-422-2277 for more information.
Makoshika State Park
Badlands Trail Hike: Jan. 1, 11 a.m.
Experience a scenic 1-mile hike. Contact 406-377-6256 for info.
Share your #FirstDayHikes on social media and gear up with weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. For more park details, visit stateparks.mt.gov.
Out-of-state vehicles have an $8 entrance fee.
Join the nationwide celebration of First Day Hikes, which started over 26 years ago and now encompasses all 50 states.
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