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Montana
9.7 mi
Distance
1,425 ft
Gain
3h 56m
Time
We won't guess. Here is exactly what we do and don't know.
What we do know
Inside Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest
2 managing-area boundaries mapped — agency alerts for them feed this page automatically.
Boundary data
What's missing
No access route mapped
We don't yet know which road reaches this trailhead, so we can't tell you if it's gated.
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Why you'll love it
Shields Big Elk
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
No permit or access details on file for this trail — check with the local land manager before you go.
Shields Big Elk is a moderate 9.67-mile round-trip hike offering a rewarding climb through Montana's diverse terrain. This trail gains 1,425 feet of elevation while traversing through forest and open areas typical of the region, providing hikers with scenic views and a solid workout. The trail is well-suited for experienced day hikers looking for a half-day adventure with meaningful elevation gain.
South Boundary
~2 min drive
Easy 1.24-mile walk with minimal elevation gain in South Boundary area.
Lodgepole Creek
~6 min drive
Steady creek-side climb through lodgepole forest with 935 ft elevation gain.
Old 634 Off Castle
~12 min drive
Steep 1-mile climb with 593 ft gain near Castle, Montana.
Crow Creek
~7 min drive
Challenging 11-mile alpine climb with 4,200 ft elevation gain.
Groveland
~8 min drive
Moderate 4.7-mile hike with 1,121 ft gain near Groveland, Montana.
Forest Lake
~13 min drive
Easy forest walk to a scenic Montana lake, perfect for families.
Boundary
~8 min drive
Moderate 6.63-mile trail with 543 ft gain through Montana backcountry.
South Fork American Fork
~9 min drive
Accessible 4.87-mile forest hike along South Fork American Fork drainage.
Blue Lake
~21 min drive
Scenic alpine lake hike with steady climb and rewarding views.
Loco Creek
~9 min drive
Easy creek-side walk with minimal elevation gain in central Montana.
