Elevation Gain
537.00 ft (163.68 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
2.20 mi (3.54 km)
Warming hut
No
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Uplands Trail is a moderately difficult and short lollipop loop located in Big Sky, Montana. This adventure provides great views of Big Sky and the surrounding mountains. This well-marked trail travels 2.2 miles through coniferous forest and open hillside. You will gain over 500 feet of elevation on this trail.

Uplands Trail begins at the Hummocks and Uplands trailhead off of Aspen Leaf Drive. From here, travel east on Hummocks Trail. After 0.1 miles, you will go right at the junction with Uplands Trail. Here, you will be traveling uphill through the forest. You will emerge from the trees and onto an open hillside after 0.2 miles.

Continue switchbacking up the hill for another 0.4 miles to reach the start of the loop. Stay right to take the loop counterclockwise. As you continue uphill, you will have better and better views of Big Sky’s Town Center and Meadow Village. You will also be able to see Wilson Peak and Lone Mountain.

After you have traveled 0.4 miles from the last junction, you will have made it to the highest point of the trail.  Head downhill for another 0.4 miles to reach the end of the loop. From here, retrace your steps to return to the trailhead.

Uplands Trail is open year-round and does not have any associated fees. This trail is not groomed in the winter. Snowshoes are recommended. In the summer, this trail is used by hikers and mountain bikers. It is also dog friendly and just a short distance from Big Sky’s Town Center. deer, elk, and moose are often seen on this trail. Bears have also been seen on this trail so it is important to follow bear safety principles. Uplands Trail is an easily accessible way to enjoy wonderful mountain views.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Pros

Mountain views. Wildlife.

Cons

Part of trail close to road.

Pets allowed

Allowed

Trailhead Elevation

6,281.00 ft (1,914.45 m)

Highest point

6,758.00 ft (2,059.84 m)

Features

Family friendly
Wildlife

Typically multi-day

No

Groomed trail

No

Snowmobiles allowed

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Big Sky + Gallatin River Valley, Montana
Big Sky + Gallatin River Valley, Montana

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