Things to Do in Lee Metcalf Wilderness

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is a protected area in Southwest Montana, spanning approximately 242,000 to 259,000 acres. It is divided into four units: Bear Trap Canyon, Spanish Peaks, Taylor-Hilgard, and Monument Mountain. The wilderness features diverse landscapes, from canyon country at 4,500 feet to alpine peaks over 11,000 feet.

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, jogging, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, backpacking, and horseback riding. Whitewater rafting is also a significant activity in the Bear Trap Canyon unit. The area contains over 300 miles of trails across its diverse terrain.

Yes, the Lee Metcalf Wilderness features over 300 miles of hiking trails, with 28 trailheads providing access. Trails range from alpine routes to canyon hikes of varying difficulty levels. Popular options include Lava Lake, Beehive Basin, Bear Trap Canyon, and the Sphinx Mountain Trail. For more information, consult the Hiking in Lee Metcalf Wilderness guide.

While the Lee Metcalf Wilderness generally prohibits mechanized travel, some specific trails are suitable for mountain biking. The Beaverponds Trail #105 is one such route, winding through old beaver ponds and along sections of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Further details can be found in the MTB Trails in Lee Metcalf Wilderness guide.

The extensive trail network within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness offers numerous opportunities for jogging and running. These trails traverse various landscapes, providing diverse experiences for runners. Information on suitable paths is available in the Running Trails in Lee Metcalf Wilderness guide.

The wilderness is characterized by dramatic features such as the Madison River's whitewater rapids in Bear Trap Canyon and glaciated terrain in the Spanish Peaks and Taylor-Hilgard units. These areas exhibit U-shaped valleys, knife-like ridges, alpine cirques, and numerous glacial lakes, with about 70 lakes near Hilgard Peak. Twenty-five peaks in the Spanish Peaks unit exceed 10,000 feet.

Hilgard Peak is the highest point within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, reaching an elevation of 11,316 feet (3,449 meters). The wilderness also contains many other peaks over 10,000 feet (3,048 meters), particularly in the Spanish Peaks unit.

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is home to a rich diversity of wildlife. It serves as a vital component of grizzly bear habitat within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Other species include bighorn sheep, mountain goats, cougars, wolves, elk, moose, and bald eagles.

There are 3 routes available on komoot for the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. These routes have been explored by more than 1,000 visitors and hold an average rating of 4.75 out of 5 stars.

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is designated as an area where mechanized and motorized travel is generally prohibited. Specific permit requirements for hiking or camping are managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the Bear Trap Canyon unit and the U.S. Forest Service for other units. Visitors should check with the relevant managing agency for current regulations.

Easy hikes are available within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness for those seeking less strenuous options. These trails offer accessible ways to experience the diverse landscapes. For specific recommendations, refer to the Easy hikes in Lee Metcalf Wilderness guide.

The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is managed by multiple agencies. The Bear Trap Canyon unit is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The Spanish Peaks, Taylor-Hilgard, and Monument Mountain units are managed by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically the Gallatin and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forests.

For inquiries concerning the Bear Trap Canyon unit, contact the Dillon Field Office of the Bureau of Land Management. Their phone number is 406-683-8000. General information for other units can be found on the U.S. Forest Service website.