There’s a reason Montana is known as the “Land of the Shining Mountains.” With over 100 towering peaks in the western part of the state and 77 named ranges in the Rocky Mountains, the mountains in Montana offer some of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the country. Glacier National Park is the crown jewel, nestled between the Rockies and the Great Plains, and home to many of the highest mountains in Montana. From alpine lakes and snow-capped summits to rugged trails and deep wilderness, there’s something here for every outdoor enthusiast.
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1. Divide Mountain
Located just south of Saint Mary in Glacier National Park, Divide Mountain rises to 8,665 feet and acts as a natural boundary between the Blackfeet Reservation and the park. It’s considered an “easy mountain,” making it perfect for beginner climbers. Wildflowers bloom in season, and the open terrain means you’ll enjoy sweeping views of some of the most beautiful mountains in Montana. A former fire lookout cabin rests at the summit.
2. Mount Grinnell
One of Glacier Park’s most dramatic peaks, Mount Grinnell sits between Mount Gould and Mount Wilbur in the Many Glacier region. There are multiple trail options, with views extending as far as Chief Mountain and beyond. The 13-mile roundtrip hike climbs 4,550 feet, offering a great challenge along with potential sightings of grizzly bears, black bears, and mountain lions in this part of the Montana mountains.
3. Holland Peak
At 9,356 feet, Holland Peak is the highest point in the wild and rugged Swan Range. Found within the Bob Marshall Wilderness, it’s a tough 5-mile trek with a 5,000-foot elevation gain. The steep scramble rewards you with views of “The Bob” to the east and Swan Valley to the west. The Rumble Creek Lakes below the peak are as scenic as they are peaceful, and the area is also popular with anglers.
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4. Flinsch Peak
Flinsch Peak stands 9,225 feet tall, west of Rising Wolf Mountain in the Lewis Range. It crosses the Continental Divide and offers spectacular views from above Young Man Lake. The hike starts from Two Medicine Valley and is best done early in the day. Despite the altitude, the climb is relatively straightforward, making it a memorable adventure in the Montana mountains.
5. Trapper Peak
Trapper Peak is the tallest summit in the Bitterroot Mountains at 10,157 feet and just under 12 miles from Darby. It’s one of the most popular climbs in the region, offering several trailheads with varying difficulty. The steep and challenging Trapper Creek Trailhead gives access to the summit’s wilderness area, while easier routes are also available. Either way, the panoramic views from the top are stunning.
6. Triple Divide Peak
Triple Divide Peak rises to 8,020 feet and sits at a unique spot where water flows into three oceans—Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic. That’s why it’s known as the “Triple Divide.” Part of the Lewis Range and Glacier National Park, this mountain highlights the geological and ecological richness of the mountains in Montana. The 16-mile roundtrip hike takes two days and includes scenic landmarks like Medicine Grizzly Lake.
7. Rising Wolf Mountain
Located at the Two Medicine region of Glacier National Park, Rising Wolf Mountain towers at 9,518 feet. Although the hike is just 10 kilometers, the off-trail scramble and 4,500-foot elevation gain make it a strenuous climb. However, the breathtaking views of hanging lakes, valleys, and peaks are well worth the effort. This mountain holds cultural significance for the Blackfeet tribe.
8. Stanton Mountain
At 7,750 feet, Stanton Mountain is considered a relatively easy climb for experienced hikers. It offers a 4.6-mile trail with 4,600 feet of elevation gain. After a short bushwhack and a hike through open forest, tundra, and bare rock, you’ll reach the summit. Views of Lake McDonald and Apgar Village are a highlight. With snow lingering until July, it’s a great early-season climb in the Montana mountains.
9. Allen Mountain
Allen Mountain, rising to 9,376 feet, is found north of Cracker Lake in Glacier National Park’s Lewis Range. Despite being one of the three highest summits in the valley, it can seem understated next to neighboring peaks. There are several routes, including the High Traverse that passes through Snow Moon Basin. Scree fields and steep cliffs challenge climbers, but the reward is a peaceful and scenic summit.
10. Mount Oberlin
Just northwest of Logan Pass, Mount Oberlin stands at 8,180 feet in the Lewis Range. The 4-mile roundtrip trail includes 1,500 feet of elevation gain and typically takes about 7 hours to complete. The trail starts from the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road and offers consistent views of Mount Gould, the Garden Wall, and more. Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bears as you make your way up this accessible yet rewarding peak.