Montana is a prime destination for hikers and trekkers looking for rugged beauty and remote wilderness. The state’s vast mountain ranges, alpine lakes, and quiet canyons offer experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re after an easy day in nature or a full-on mountain adventure, Montana has it all. We’re particularly fond of the Alpine Lake Float and Guided Hike in the Bitterroot Mountains, which combines a scenic hike with floating on crystal-clear waters. It’s a great way to see the landscape at a relaxed pace and enjoy a packrafting experience that’s perfect for all skill levels.
If snow is still on the ground when you visit, the Mountaintop Hiking/Snowshoeing in the Bitterroot Mountains offers a different perspective—trekking in winter wonderland conditions with a local guide. For those who want more control over their trip, the Hiking Gear Rental and Trail Planning service helps you prepare for your own adventure in the stunning, less crowded canyons of Western Montana. Finally, if you’re looking for a full-day adventure that includes a hike and a packraft float, the Doris Lake Hike with Pack-raft Float provides breathtaking views and active fun, with guides carrying much of the gear for you.
Quick Overview
This list features guided hikes, snowshoeing adventures, gear rental and trail planning, and self-guided options—each suited to different preferences and fitness levels. Whether you want a casual walk, a challenging mountaintop trek, or a flexible DIY trip, Montana’s wilderness is waiting. Now, let’s explore what makes each of these tours special.
1. Alpine Lake Float and Guided Hike in the Bitterroot Mountains
At number 1, this tour offers a balanced mix of hiking and paddling that’s perfect if you want a memorable day in Montana’s remote backcountry. The tour includes a moderate 3-mile hike along a glacial canyon in the Bitterroot National Forest, which features stunning scenery and manageable terrain. The highlight is reaching an alpine lake, where your guide will help you inflate packrafts for a float on tranquil waters. The guide provides all gear—backpacks, packrafts, poles—and even a backpacking-style lunch with coffee or tea, making it a convenient and immersive experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its small group size—limited to 6 travelers—which ensures personalized attention and an intimate connection with nature. It’s suitable for those who enjoy gentle hikes but want the added thrill of paddling on a mountain lake. The reviews praise Luke’s professionalism and the guide’s knowledge, with guests describing it as a fun, scenic, and well-organized outing.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for beginners or families wanting a diverse day out with expert guidance and a chance to float in pristine alpine waters.
2. Mountaintop Hiking/Snowshoeing in the Bitterroot Mountains
Coming in second, this tour offers a mountaintop adventure in winter conditions. The highlight is a hike up Sweeney Ridge to Sweeney Peak, with snowshoes provided as needed (snow often lasts until July). The tour is designed to teach you about the local plants, wildlife, and natural history of the Bitterroot Mountains, making it educational as well as physically rewarding. The guide also covers Leave No Trace principles and backcountry navigation, perfect for those interested in responsible outdoor recreation.
This tour is unique because it adapts to the snow conditions, giving you the chance to explore Montana’s winter landscape in full gear. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and the focus on natural history makes it ideal for curious travelers who want to learn while they hike. The reviews are short but glowing, emphasizing the guide’s knowledge and the fun of snowshoeing at high elevation.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those comfortable with winter conditions and eager to learn about Montana’s mountain environment in a guided setting.
3. Hiking Gear Rental + Trail Planning – Western Montana
Third on our list is a flexible, self-guided option that’s ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace. For around $65, you can rent hiking gear and receive personalized trail planning from an expert guide who’s hiked thousands of miles across the US. The focus here is on the less crowded, glacially carved canyons of the Bitterroot Mountains, which are still relatively undiscovered and perfect for avoiding crowds.
This service is excellent for experienced hikers who want to craft a personalized itinerary, or for those new to the area who prefer a guided planning session before heading out alone. The guide shares local insights and safety tips, helping you navigate Montana’s wilderness confidently. The main advantage is the combination of gear rental and customized planning, giving you maximum flexibility and peace of mind.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent travelers with some hiking experience who want expert advice and high-quality gear without a guided tour.
$65.00 per person
4. Doris Lake Hike with Pack-raft Float
Last but not least, this full-day adventure in Idaho offers a hike to Doris Lake, with optional time to summit Doris Mountain. The trail is about 3.5 to 6 miles long, and your guide will carry the first two packrafts, leaving you the thrill of paddling on Doris Lake’s clear waters. The scenery features sweeping views of the Flathead Valley and surrounding peaks, making it a visually stunning experience.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of a challenging hike and a relaxing paddle, with the guide handling most of the gear logistics. It’s an ideal choice for active travelers who want a full day of outdoor fun, including options to push further by summiting Doris Mountain. The reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery and the ease of the guide carrying gear, allowing you to focus on the experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active hikers and paddlers who want a full-day adventure with scenic views and manageable logistics.
$259 per person
How to Choose the Right Montana Hiking or Trekking Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your fitness level, interests, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. For a mix of hiking and paddling, the Alpine Lake Float and Guided Hike offers a well-rounded day. If winter conditions excite you, the Mountaintop Snowshoeing provides a snow-covered adventure with educational insights.
For independent explorers, the Hiking Gear Rental + Trail Planning makes it easy to set out on your own. And for those craving a full-day action-packed trip, the Doris Lake Hike with Pack-raft Float combines hiking, paddling, and mountain views into one package.
Think about the budget, time available, and whether you prefer guided or self-guided experiences. Booking early is advisable, especially in summer, as Montana’s popular outdoor spots fill quickly.
In summary, Montana offers a diverse array of hiking and trekking options—from gentle lakeside walks to challenging mountaintop climbs. For a family-friendly experience, the guided Alpine Lake Float is hard to beat. Outdoor enthusiasts wanting to learn natural history will appreciate the snowshoe tour. Meanwhile, self-guided hikers can enjoy the freedom of custom planning with high-quality gear. For active travelers craving an all-in-one adventure, Doris Lake provides a memorable day in the mountains.
No matter your style, these options show why Montana remains one of the best places in the US for outdoor exploration. Be sure to plan ahead and book your preferred tour early—Montana’s wilderness is too captivating to miss.