Blackmore Lake Trail

Length: 6.6 miles (round-trip to the most popular turnaround), 14.4 miles (round-trip to the top of Mount Blackmore), or 18.5 miles (one-way to S. Cottonwood Trailhead) 

Duration: 2 hours to all day

Difficulty: Moderate to hard

Elevation Gain: 640 to 2,561 feet 

Activities: Hiking, trail running, camping, skiing

Crowds: Moderate traffic
 

About
Blackmore Lake Trail has many route options, but the hike begins near the northwest edge of Hyalite Reservoir. A dense pine forest and meadow surround this shallow lake, which lays beneath Mount Blackmore and Elephant Mountain. The hike can be extended an additional 3.5 miles to the top of Mount Blackmore. More ambitious hikers can continue another 11.3 miles to the S. Cottonwood trailhead, where they can drop a shuttle vehicle. Carry bear spray. 

Seasonal Conditions
This trail gets busy during warm weather, but the adventure is worth it. During the winter, skiers can hike up to Mount Blackmore and make their way back down. Hikers can also take to the trail during winter, just wear the appropriate gear and watch out for those skiers.  

Directions
Head south on 19th Ave. and turn left on Hyalite Canyon Rd. Trailhead parking is located to the right, just before you reach Hyalite Reservoir.

Map courtesy of Robert Stone's Day Hikes Around Bozeman, Montana.