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A somewhat primitive mountain trail southeast of Bozeman.


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Map Key

10.8

Miles

17.3

KM

Out and Back

8,322' 2,536 m

High

5,301' 1,616 m

Low

3,573' 1,089 m

Up

3,573' 1,089 m

Down

13%

Avg Grade (7°)

43%

Max Grade (23°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

Although the trail is somewhat primitive, and you'll have to deal with a steady climb to the top of Mt Ellis, the unique view of the Gallatin Valley from the south make this hike well worth it.

Description

Park at the end of Mt. Ellis Lane. The trail begins on the other side of the cattle gate. Start your ascent up a gravel road through an open field to an old logging road that begins as you enter the trees (1 mi). The first three miles along this road climb steadily, but won't be too steep.

After a couple of miles of steady climbing, a singletrack marked by a cairn starts up towards Little Ellis from the right side of the road. Follow the steep fall-line trail to the first prominence (Little Ellis), then continue south on the ridge to the summit of Mt. Ellis. This route provides a unique view of the Gallatin Valley from the south so be sure to take a short break at the top to enjoy the views before heading back down the way you came.

Flora & Fauna

The first couple of miles pass through pasture and rangeland. Watch out for cattle and make sure to close the gates.

Contacts

Land Manager: Montana State Lands

Shared By:

valleytrash with improvements by Garrett Lammey

Trail Ratings

  4.1 from 7 votes

#2

in Bozeman

#3184

Overall
  4.1 from 7 votes
5 Star
29%
4 Star
57%
3 Star
14%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#2

in Bozeman

#78

in Montana

#3,184

Overall
12 Views Last Month
9,487 Since Sep 30, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

Open space on the trail
Aug 8, 2021 near Bozeman, MT
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Weather


Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
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