News from the Knoff Group

As crisp autumn days arrive, it’s the perfect time to explore southwestern Montana’s vibrant fall scenery by trail. Knoff Group Real Estate has put together a list of a few of our favorite fall single tracks in the greater Bozeman and surrounding areas to get your late season hike on.

In Bozeman

Emerald Lake Trail, located in Hyalite Canyon, is a 10-mile round-trip hike that follows the East Fork of Hyalite Creek. Weave through the wooded trails and you’ll reach picturesque Emerald Lake, surrounded by alpine meadows. Throughout the hike, the trail gradually gains about 2,000 feet in elevation, so make sure you stay hydrated!

If you’re looking for another hike up Hyalite Canyon, Grotto Falls Trail is quite popular. The 2.4-mile out-and-back trail leads you to a stunning waterfall, provided by the overflow from Hyalite Creek. It’s a great family-friendly hike or a nice rest stop and view if you’re continuing on to Hyalite Lake.

Another option up Hyalite Canyon is Palisade Falls Trail. The short trail begins at the East Fork of Hyalite Creek and leads to a bridge facing the falls. There – you’ll be able to view an 80-foot waterfall at the southern base of Palisade Mountain. Picnic tables are accessible at the trailhead.

Sourdough Canyon Trail is a great fall hike located only minutes south of downtown Bozeman. The trail is an out-and-back, making it perfect for those looking for a short walk, or those wanting a long hike. No matter your stopping point, the trail takes you through an old logging road – running parallel to Bozeman Creek (which is the source of 40% of Bozeman’s drinking water)!

Sypes Canyon Trail is a great option if you’re looking for a jaunt close to Bozeman with expansive Gallatin Valley views. Located just minutes to the north of town, Sypes is a 4-mile round-trip trail to the first lookout or a 6.2-mile out-and-back loop if you want to continue up the Foothills Trail. Connect with numerous trails from here to make it a full day.

In Between Bozeman and Big Sky

Lava Lake Trail, located in between Bozeman and Big Sky, offers a rewarding hike with its stunning destination—a picturesque lake nestled among the towering Spanish Peaks. The hike is a 6-mile round-trip with a 1,600-foot elevation gain. Lava Lake is a moderate hike, and while it has fantastic views, expect heavy hiker traffic.

In Paradise Valley

Located in Paradise Valley just outside of Livingston, Pine Creek Falls is a wonderful place to explore the beauty of autumn in the mountains. It’s a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail – giving into a moderate hike that is quite shaded. After about a half mile, the trail crosses  Pine Creek then continue on to a dense forest, where you’ll be able to view the falls from a bridge. Sturdy hikers can continue on to Pine Creek Lake – a steep but rewarding voyage that includes a watery creek crossing.

In Big Sky

Located in Big Sky, Beehive Basin Trail is a 7-mile round-trip hike nestled in the northern Madison range. It sits in a towering glacial cirque – taking you through wooded and alpine meadows, before eventually reaching a gorgeous mountain lake. The hike gains about 1,650 feet in elevation so be prepared for changing conditions with early autumn snow.