Ross Creek Nature Trail, Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area

Hikers should familiarize themselves with a map of the area before heading into the Crazy Mountains to avoid trespassing on private property.

From Half Moon Campground, hikers start on the 2.9-mile Big Timber Creek Trail to access the Sweetgrass Trail. Popular with backpackers and strong day hikers alike, the near 17-mile Sweetgrass Trail spawns many side adventures into the Crazy Mountains, including destinations like Thunder Lake and Twin Lakes.

The Crazy Mountains are an island mountain range in south-central Montana. They rise from a flat prairie environment with significant prominence and unearth a plethora of alpine lakes to explore.

For more hiking trails close to Missoula, both Pattee Canyon and Blue Mountain Recreation Areas are also within the Lolo National Forest and adjacent to the city.

The trail to Stuart Peak utilizes the Spring Gulch trail, with other popular gulch routes in the area, including Sawmill Gulch and Curry Gulch. Less strenuous hiking opportunities stem from the main trailhead, including the Main Corridor trail, which extends over 14 miles with minimal elevation gain.

Stuart Peak, Rattlesnake National Recreation Area, Lolo National Forest

Expect crowds to gather at Ross Creek throughout the summer. Because of its non-existent elevation gains, the area is popular for large family hikes. Still, there are plenty of trails and tall trees around, leaving space to admire the landscape on your own. For a bigger day hike, Ross Creek Trail continues from the grove for just over four miles.

In far northwest Montana near the Idaho border, within Kootenai National Forest, the Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is home to trees that have been growing for over 500 years. The best way to experience the Ross Creek Cedars is by taking a self-guided hike along the Ross Creek Nature Trail. Interpretive information lines this less-than-a-mile loop alongside several giant western cedars.

Over 20 National Forest Service campgrounds spread throughout the forest, close to several trailheads.

Other popular peaks to nab in the Bitterroot Mountains include Lolo Peak and St. Mary Peak. It's not just summit hikes in the Bitterroot Mountains, though, with other trails like the Kootenai Creek Trail and Blodgett Canyon leading to stunning waterfalls and other natural features.