Isn’t Montana beautiful? In every corner of our state, you will find breathtaking natural wonders and scenery that will enchant you. There are countless gems — both man-made and natural — that I love recommending to others from waterfalls to mountains. But one natural feature in Montana that tends to surprise others is Hell Roaring Creek. Located in southern Montana, this fast-flowing creek has several claims to fame. For example, it is the most distant point in the Mississippi River system and the start of the fourth longest river in the world. And while there are many places to view this creek, one of my favorites is the Hell Roaring Creek Trail.

Hell Roaring Creek is a natural wonder in Montana that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It is the greatest source of the Missouri River and begins at Brower’s Spring, near the Idaho and Montana border. It actually flows more than 3,700 miles to the Gulf of Mexico.

For a day surrounded by Montana’s natural beauty and to be near this wonder, lace up your hiking boots and tackle the Hell Roaring Creek Trail. This 4.5-mile, out-and-back hike will certainly leave you awed and inspired. To find the trailhead, you’ll take Highway 191, south of Bozeman. You’ll spot the trailhead and a small parking area right along the highway.

Despite the easy access to this trail, you don’t have to worry about large crowds ruining your experience outdoors. This is a quiet hike — the definition of a true hidden gem. The path is wide and easy to follow and you won’t find too many obstacles slowing you down.

While on your journey, I recommend you don’t rush — take your time. The trail takes you next to the water with several areas that are perfect to stop, take a break, and admire the beauty all around you. However, you must be prepared to climb more than 700 feet in elevation. But, this trail is full of several switchbacks to make the inclines much easier on the body.

Hell Roaring Creek Trail is wonderful no matter the time of the year. In the winter, you’ll walk through a snowy wonderland, and in the spring and summer months, you’ll likely spot wildflowers all along your way. The fall is particularly beautiful when red, orange, and gold leaves make their appearance between the evergreen trees. However, be aware that early spring can result in a very muddy trail.

I love to use AllTrails for all my hiking adventures. AllTrails+, for example, provides downloadable maps and other features that make time outdoors a little easier and less stressful. However, if using AllTrails for this hiking adventure, be aware that the trail does continue further on than what you will see on the AllTrails map. If you are up for even more adventure, continue onward and enjoy even more time in the mountains and forest.

Hell Roaring Creek is a natural wonder in Montana that provides beauty, quiet, and inspiration. And when you tackle the Hell Roaring Creek Trail, it offers so much more.

Have you ever tackled the Hell Roaring Creek Trail? What is your favorite hiking trail in Montana? What do you consider the best natural wonder in the Treasure State? Let me know! I’d love to hear from you.