Sphinx Creek Trail

The Sphinx Creek Trail begins at the Sphinx Creek Trailhead off Hwy. 287, southwest of Ennis, and follows a steady ascent into the heart of the Madison Range. From the trailhead, the route parallels Sphinx Creek through dense forest before climbing into open meadows filled with summer wildflowers. As the elevation increases, the trail narrows and becomes steeper, with rocky tread and occasional deadfall requiring careful footing. After a sustained climb, hikers reach a high alpine bench with commanding views of Sphinx Mountain’s distinctive profile. At higher elevations, the terrain opens up to sweeping ridgelines and scattered stands of whitebark pine. Wildlife is frequently spotted in this area, including elk, mule deer, and the occasional black bear. The route retraces the same path back to the trailhead. This is one of the best high-elevation day hikes near Ennis for those seeking rugged terrain and striking views deep in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.