Sacagawea Peak is located in the Gallatin National Forest and is the highest point in the Bridger Mountain Range sitting at 9,665 feet. You can reach the peak from several different trails, but the most popular path starts at Fairy Lake on the east side of the ridge—this is also the start of the famous Bridger Ridge Run. The 4.5-mile day hike starts out in mature forest and then up a set of switchbacks into the basin. There is a good chance that the basin will be filled with snow even into the mid-summer months, which makes this a popular backcountry ski area. When you reach the summit of Sacagawea Peak you can enjoy views of the Crazy Mountains, the Spanish Peaks and the Tobacco Roots. And, don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for the mountain goats that frequent the area.
From Bozeman, head north on Bridger Canyon Drive. Drive for 20 miles or so and take a left onto Fairy Lake Road, which will be just over Battle Ridge Pass. After 6 or so miles of jumbling around on Fairy Lake Road, you'll arrive at the Fairy Lake Campground (and the trailhead). Be Advised: There is a gate roughly two-thirds of the way up Fairy Lake Road. According to the USFS Fairy Lake Campground Site, the gate is open July 1st through September 15th. If in doubt, give the Forest Service in Bozeman a call: 406-587-6701.
This is a short, yet steep hike. In just over two miles the trail gains nearly 2,000 feet of elevation. Since you're starting high and ending even higher, the air will feel thin most of the way. On top of all this, there's a good chance for snow on parts of the trail well into the summer, adding to the difficulty.
Averaging a little over 1 mph will get you to the top of Sacagawea Peak in just over two hours. With a 45 minute break at the top to take in some views, you can head back down and be back at the car in under 4.5 hours.
This route starts at 7715 feet above sea level and ends at 9665 feet. The hike moves steadily uphill with little, if any downhill sections.
It's no coincidence that the highest peak in the Bridgers has arguably the best view in the Bridgers. The view from Sacagawea Peak is commanding. Not only can you see up and down the spine of the mountain, but you have views of the Bangtails, the Gallatin Range, the Tobacco Roots, and the Crazies. To top it off, you're nearly a mile above the valley floor and the view of Bozeman is spectacular.
Fill up your water bottle at the campground well or pump directly out of Fairy Lake. You will get some runoff in the warmer summer months, but don't rely on it as a water source during the hike.
Not required to bring food on this hike. If you choose to bring a snack or lunch you may want to eat it before getting to the peak because it can be steep and crowded at the top.
The beginning of the trail is in good condition, but once you reach the basin the trail becomes steep, uneven, and hard to follow if there is snow. Navigation won't be a problem since the lack of trees always allows you to keep the peak in sight. If you're feeling brave some hikers choose to take the shortcut back by sliding down the basin (this can be dangerous and is not recommended). Expect snow into mid-July and again in late September.
The trail is short, but steep and you're fully exposed to the sun for the majority of the hike. Bring your dog along if it doesn't mind hydrating by eating snow and won't pick a fight with the mountain goats.
Fairy Lake Road is very rough. If you have a high-clearance vehicle, it's worth taking it on this drive. If you need to, you'll be able to make it with your car, but be prepared to bottom out once or twice. Be Advised: There is a gate roughly two-thirds of the way up Fairy Lake Road. According to the USFS Fairy Lake Campground Site, the gate is open July 1st through September 15th. If in doubt, give the Forest Service in Bozeman a call: 406-587-6701.
Beartooth Publishing's Bozeman Area Map covers this whole hike.
The trailhead is located in the Fairy Lake Campground, so there is parking in the campground and near the trail.
There is a bathroom right at the trailhead and another one close by near the campground.
The potential for spotting mountain goats combined with summer snow for backcountry skiers makes this trail a popular destination.
Because of the high elevation, the temperature will likely stay on the cooler side. But, being a ridge hike, you'll be exposed to sun and wind. Be prepared with layers for changing conditions and wear boots to keep your feet dry in the snow. Trekking poles will give you an advantage on the steepest parts of the hike.
Footwear: Hiking Boots
Leave your bug spray at home, unless you plan on camping at Fairy Lake.
The trail starts out in the trees, but once you reach the basin you will be fully exposed to the sun and wind for the remainder of the hike.
You'll be out of service range before you reach Fairy Lake and for the majority of the hike. You may get glimpses of service near the peak.
The Sacagawea Trailhead is conveniently located inside of the Fairy Lake Campground if you want to spend the night before or after your hike. Once you're on the trail, the lack of trees, water and a constant incline make for less than desirable camping.
Corbly Gulch/Limestone Trail
When you achieve the ridge but before ascending to the peak, you can continue straight westward and switchback down Limestone Trail 4.1 miles to the Corbly Gulch Trailhead.
North Cottonwood Creek Trail
Similar to the trail connection towards Corbly Gulch, look for this when you hit the ridge but before you head up to the actual peak. North Cottonwood Creek Trail will head Northwest down the west-facing slope of the Bridgers.
The Ridge/The M
The Fairy Lake Trailhead is often what people consider the beginning of The Ridge Hike, which is a 20-mile path along the spine of the Bridgers. Once you reach the peak, there's an obvious trail to follow south that will eventually reach The M.
Fairy Lake
While driving to the trailhead for Sacagawea Peak, you'll pass another trailhead sign for Fairy Lake. Take the short walk down a small hill to a path that loops around the entire lake. It's a worthwhile side trip from the main hike.
Shafthouse Trail
The Shafthouse Trail branches North from Fairy Lake Road prior to reaching the Fairy Lake Campground. If you've hit Elf Lake (a tiny lake to your left immediately before the campground), then you've gone too far. The Trailhead for the Shafthouse Trail will be on the right of Fairy Lake Road, with a small parking area to the left.
Hardscrabble Peak
When you achieve the ridge but before ascending to the peak, head North to Hardscrabble Peak.