Makoshika State Park

Photo by Traveling Mel

Out here, in Montana's largest state park, we offer a different kind of mountain—distinctive, evolving badlands that change colors as the sun rises and sets across the landscape. Makoshika (pronounced Ma-ko'-shik-ka) means “bad earth.” This terrain will subtly challenge even the most seasoned cyclist or hiker.

For biking we recommend the Vista Trail (about 6 miles out/back) or the shorter, Paramount Trail for beginners. To stretch your endurance, bike the entire Makoshika Park Road, including the switchbacks. See this map or look for designated signs at trail heads.

For hiking, don't miss Cap Rock Trail, which crosses a natural bridge—yes, really—or traverse the Gunner's Ridge—Hungry Joe Trails for views and longer treks with elevation climbs. For those who need something a bit less intense, will enjoy the Diane Gabriel Trail.

Insider Tip: Stop at the Visitor Information Center for a backcountry hiking and camping permit, along with a trail-conditions report from the friendly park staff.

Terry Badlands

Photo by Andy Austin

The immense Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area (WSA), which is managed by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management), offers biking along designated roads only and hiking throughout, including the popular Natural Bridges Trail.

A truly rustic experience, we recommend early-day hikes, snake gaiters, plenty of water and an adventurous spirit. You will be rewarded with amazing micro-ecosystems, spires, buttes, tabletops, hoodoos and—you guessed it—natural bridges.

Chat it up with local merchants to hear stories about bootleggers using the Calypso Trail during Prohibition and their daring nocturnal crossing of the Milwaukee Rail bridge, hoping to avoid an encounter with the train.

Insider Tip: High-clearance, 4WD vehicles are a must and know that roads quickly become impassable with precipitation. Wheeled traffic, which includes bikes, is restricted to two-track roads. The Calypso Trail is a minimum maintenance road.

Billings Area

Photo by Nathan Satran

Montana's largest city (pop: 110,000), Billings offers more than 47 miles of walking and biking trails, including paved, mixed-use trails and more rustic gravel-dirt trails. No matter which one you pick, we guarantee views and hues—of natural sandstone bluffs estimated to be 70 million years old, of the city's skyline backdropped with the Beartooth and Pryor mountains and of the legendary Yellowstone River that winds its way around this bustling center of commerce.

Insider Tip: Download the Billings Heritage Trail app for instant access. Hard-core adventurists should look for Phipps or Zimmerman Parks.

Photo credit Chuck Haney/Visit Montana

If you hit only one trail in Billings, you must stop at Swords Park, set atop the Billings “Rims.” On a clear day you can see five mountain ranges—the Bighorn, Pryor, Beartooth-Absarooka, Crazy and Bull—along with the South Hills and Yellowstone River. Walk or bike from just west of N. 27th Street along the top of the Rims all the way to Boothill on paved trails. The truly ambitious can expand their trek with connecting trails.

Four Dances Special Recreation Area

Photo by Andy Austin

For a stunning view, 500 feet above the Yellowstone River Valley, head to Four Dances . This is a hiking only—no pets—area managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) which encompasses 1.5 mile loop with some interpretive signage and stunning views. We highly recommend sunrises or sunsets at Four Dances—you can't go wrong.

Insider Tip: During summer months, BLM does support a site host, who can give directions and answer questions.

Acton Recreation Area
 

Photo by Aaron Theisen

Located just 25 minutes northwest of Billings, the Acton Recreation Area was carved out of naturally-challenging landscapes and sandstone outcroppings. Local mountain bikers support this area, which is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. With trail names like Owl-Be-Back, Rollercoaster and Fire Road, this area will pique your curiosity and thrill your inner child.

Insider Tip: Acton Rec Area is open year-round, provided roads are clear, and supports camping, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and hunting (in season) with vault toilets and interpretive kiosk.