Highwood Mountains | Great Falls

The Highwood Mountains are a mountain range located in central Montana, USA, north of the city of Great Falls.

Visual Characteristics

The Highwood Mountains are characterized by rugged, eroded peaks and slopes. Elevations range from approximately 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) at the foothills to over 7,000 feet (2,100 meters) at the highest points. The vegetation consists of mixed conifer forests, primarily Douglas fir and lodgepole pine, transitioning to alpine meadows and bare rock at higher elevations. Streams and small lakes are present throughout the range.

Location & Access Logistics

The Highwood Mountains are situated approximately 30 miles north of Great Falls, Montana. Access is primarily via Montana Highway 87, turning onto county roads such as Highwood Road or Carter Ferry Road. These gravel roads provide access to trailheads and dispersed camping areas. Parking is available at designated pull-offs and trailheads; no formal parking lots are maintained. Public transport is not available to the Highwood Mountains.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Highwood Mountains are a Laramide uplift, formed approximately 70 to 40 million years ago. They are composed of Precambrian sedimentary rocks and younger igneous intrusions. Ecologically, they represent a transition zone between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains, supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna adapted to both environments.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is possible on numerous unmaintained trails and game trails. Fishing is available in mountain streams for trout. Wildlife viewing, including elk, deer, and bighorn sheep, is a common activity. Dispersed camping is permitted in designated areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

No formal infrastructure or amenities are present within the Highwood Mountains. Restrooms, shade, and food vendors are not available. Cell phone signal is unreliable and generally absent in most areas of the range.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting are July through September, when snow has typically receded from higher elevations and weather is most stable. Mid-day offers the most direct sunlight for photography, though early morning and late evening provide softer light. Access can be limited by snow from October through June.

Facts & Legends

The Highwood Mountains are known for their significant populations of bighorn sheep. A local legend speaks of a lost prospector who discovered a rich vein of gold in the range but never returned to claim it.

Nearby Landmarks

• First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park (15km Southwest)
• Giant Springs State Park (35km Southwest)
• Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center (35km Southwest)
• Malmstrom Air Force Base (30km Southwest)