Near Middle View Trail
Near Middle View Trail
Near Middle View Trail
Near Middle View Trail
Near Middle View Trail

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Hike Route

Middle View Trail

No rating
6.3
mi
Distance
2,205
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Views

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
6.3mi
Distance
2,205ft
Elevation Gain
2,205ft
Elevation Loss
30%
Max Grade
5,297ft
High Point
4,278ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
The Middle View Trail is the newest trail in Montanaas oldest state park. This well-known Montana state park brushes the route of Lewis and Clarkas famous westward expedition and contains one of the Northwestas largest limestone cave networks. Access the trailhead from the parkas campground. Briefly follow the Cave Gulch Trail across a wide, sagebrush-filled slope. After reaching a small hill in the mountainside, take a right and begin a moderate series of switchbacks along the eastern face of the mountain. As you tread further along the trail, views of the Tobacco Roots and the Gallatin Rangeas Spanish Peaks appear along the southeastern horizon. The Middle View Trail intersects with the Eastside Trail. Left at the junction takes you to the upper visitor center parking lot, where you can access the cave system, gift shop, and the tail end of the Cave Gulch Trail. The cave is open for guided tours only from May 1 to September 30. Special holiday candlelight tours are available in December.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
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Contributors
Stephanie Keene