Hikers willing to take on the Stuart Peak Trail will discover a wild wonderland of wildflowers and alpine lakes. You’ll find this trail in western Montana, just north of Missoula, and it’s a trail you have to discover. The hike involves a big uphill climb up to Stuart Peak and is 18 miles round trip. It might take a casual hiker all day to complete, but the destination rewards those who make the journey.

The Stuart Peak Trail is a challenging hike – it has an elevation gain of 4,500 feet! 
Aaron Barrie/AllTrails
Wear good hiking boots so you can enjoy every step up the mountain.
The trail is located in the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area and Wilderness, a protected area of federal land that covers more than 61,000 acres.
Aaron Barrie/AllTrails
On clear days you can see for miles.
If you hike the trail in warmer months, you may be treated to the sight of rare wildflowers, like Mountain Lady Slippers.
David Berkoff/AllTrails
The flower is protected, so take pictures, but not any blossoms.

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On some days, the trail will take you up into the clouds!
Zachary Hawkins/AllTrails
Melting snowbanks feed more than 50 small creeks in the wilderness area.
Nathan Malone/AllTrails
They are cold and crystal-clear, but don't drink the water without using a purifying filter or tablet.
The trail will take you past aqua alpine lakes as you hike toward 7,980-foot Stuart Peak.
Mark Shenker/AllTrails
The view from the top is simply incredible.
Andre Jarriel/AllTrails
You might not want to leave - and some hikers don't, at least right away. The area is popular with backpacking campers.

Looking for more spectacular hikes in the Treasure State? There are many more great hiking trails to discover in the mountains of Montana, including these 5 amazing hikes that everyone should experience.

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Stuart Peak, Montana 59802, USA