Directions
28 Miles from Bozeman, MT. 57 Minutes

From Bozeman, head North on Bridger Canyon Drive. Drive for 20 miles or so and take a left on to 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.

Difficulty Strenuous

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.

Round Trip Distance 4.5 Miles

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.

Net Elevation Gain 1950 feet

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.

Destination Quality 5 (out of 5)

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.

Food

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.

Trail Conditions Fair

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.

Dog Friendly Friendly

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.

Road Condtions Rough

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.

Map Recommendation

Map Recommendation

Beartooth Publishing's Bozeman Area Map covers this whole hike.

Trailhead Bathroom Yup

There is a bathroom right at the trailhead and another one close by near the campground.

Foot Traffic Heavy

The potential for spotting mountain goats combined with summer snow for backcountry skiers makes this trail a popular destination.

Suggested Clothing

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

Bugs None

Leave your bug spray at home, unless you plan on camping at Fairy Lake.

Tree Cover Minimal

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.

Cell Service 2 (out of 5)

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.

Overnight Potential Yup

The Sacagawea Trailhead is convienently 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 desireable camping.

Trail Connections

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.