During our recent trip to Montana, my family and I, along with several friends, hiked to Lava Lake. This 5.5 mile hike involved a substantial climb (1600 ft) along a fast-moving creek. The forest was dense and lush. The trailhead is about a half-hour south of Bozeman, on the edge of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. If you’re in the area, this is a hike well-worth taking. Here are a couple of photos from the hike.


Remember, when you’re hiking in Montana, you’re in grizzly bear country. Be sure to hike in groups, and it doesn’t hurt to have some bear spray with you, just in case.