Things to do nearGallatin National Forest
Gallatin National Forest in Montana spans nearly two million acres of rugged peaks, ancient wilderness, and some of the most celebrated fishing rivers in the American West.
Gallatin National Forest was established in 1899 and today covers roughly 1.8 million acres across six mountain ranges in south-central Montana. The Absaroka, Beartooth, Gallatin, Madison, and Bridger ranges all fall within its boundaries, giving the forest an exceptional variety of terrain, from sagebrush foothills to alpine plateaus that push past 12,000 feet.
Hikers and backpackers find hundreds of miles of maintained trail here, including routes into the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. The dramatic narrows at Yankee Jim Canyon offer a striking introduction to the forest edge, while the climb to Storm Castle Peak Trailhead rewards with panoramic views of the Gallatin Valley.
The forest shares a boundary with Yellowstone, and wildlife moves freely between the two. Bison, wolves, and pronghorn are all spotted within the forest, particularly in the northern reaches. Anglers prize the rivers lacing through the landscape, with guided fishing charters and outfitters operating throughout the season.
Gallatin National Forest is one of the most ecologically rich public lands in the continental United States, and a visit here connects you to a scale of wilderness that is increasingly rare.
7-day forecast
Chance of rainTips for visiting Gallatin National Forest
Visit during late September for fall color on the aspen groves and far thinner crowds than the peak summer weeks.
Bring bear spray on every trail and know how to use it before you leave the trailhead.
Try fly fishing the upper reaches of the Yellowstone River corridor, where access points near the forest boundary offer outstanding wild trout habitat.
Pack layers regardless of the season, as afternoon thunderstorms can arrive quickly above treeline with little warning.
Start long hikes early in the morning to secure trailhead parking, which fills by mid-morning at popular access points throughout the forest.
Top tours & experiences near Gallatin National Forest
Horseback Ride & Yellowstone River Rafting in Gardiner
Ride horses in Gallatin National Forest, then raft 8 miles on the Yellowstone River
Horseback Ride & 8-Mile Raft Trip Near Yellowstone
Ride on horseback, then raft 8 miles near Yellowstone National Park
Sunset Horseback Ride & Cowboy Cookout in Gardiner
Ride forest trails, then gather for a hearty cowboy cookout