Hardscrabble Peak

Hardscrabble Peak rises sharply above Fairy Lake, offering hikers a quieter but equally scenic alternative to its popular neighbor, Sacagawea Peak. The route climbs quickly through shaded forest and wildflower-filled meadows before reaching the Sacagawea Saddle at roughly two miles in. From there, the trail veers north along a rugged ridgeline, gaining about 700 feet in elevation to top out just shy of 9,600 feet. The summit rewards effort with commanding views across six Montana ranges—including the Gallatins, Madisons, and Crazies—and frequent sightings of mountain goats threading the rocky slopes. Though the route is short at around four miles round-trip, the elevation gain of nearly 2,000 feet and light off-trail scrambling near the top give it a moderately challenging feel. Expect alpine exposure, shifting talus, and limited shade after the saddle. The dirt road to the trailhead can be rough—high-clearance vehicles are recommended. This trail is best tackled from midsummer through early fall, when lingering snow has melted and the alpine air is crisp. If you're looking for solitude, summit views, and an efficient mountain mission just north of Bozeman, Hardscrabble delivers.