Near Hell Roaring Creek Trail CE
Open forest higher up on the trail.
Near Hell Roaring Creek Trail CE
Intersection with North Fork of the Hellroaring Creek.
Near Hell Roaring Creek Trail CE
Hellroaring Creek from a bridge.
Near Hell Roaring Creek Trail CE
Golden afternoon light filters through the forest.
Near Hell Roaring Creek Trail CE
Boundary of the wilderness area.

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Hike Route

Hell Roaring Creek Trail CE

4.5 (2 Ratings)
Sweeping views of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness reward steady climbing through rugged Gallatin terrain.
21.7
mi
Distance
5,078
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
BirdingFishingRiver/CreekViewsWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
21.65mi
Distance
5,078ft
Elevation Gain
5,078ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
9,620ft
High Point
5,427ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Dogs
Leashed
Description
The Hell Roaring Trail begins at the Hell Roaring Creek Trailhead, located south of Bozeman in the Gallatin Range. From the parking area, the route follows the creek upstream, climbing gradually through dense forest before opening into high-alpine meadows. The trail generally trends southeast and maintains a steady ascent, with multiple water access points along the lower half along Hell Roaring Creek. At several points, stream crossings can be challenging during early summer runoff, so plan accordingly. About halfway in, the trail becomes steeper as it approaches the edge of the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Optional side trails branch off toward Blackmore Lake and Hyalite Peak, allowing hikers to extend their outing or connect with other high-country routes. Wildflowers typically peak in mid-summer, and wildlife sightings are common throughout the upper basin. The trail remains in grizzly bear country, so carry bear spray and practice standard backcountry precautions. This route is best used from late June through October, depending on snowpack and access conditions. For hikers looking to explore deeper into the Gallatin high country, this route offers a rewarding entry point.

Route Conditions

Report Conditions
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Lots of wild flowers!
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
Anonymous Adventurer
All Clear
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Contributors
Russell Hobart