West Fork Madison

West Fork Madison is located in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the largest of the national forests in Montana covering 3.35 million acres. This trail is less than an hours drive from Ennis or West Yellowstone, and just under 2 hours from Big Sky Montana. This trail takes you alongside the Madison River until Waypoint 6. The road turns and follows the West Fork Madison River to the end of the trail for the next 8 miles through hills, forest, and surrounding mountain views. If looking for a campsite near the river, this is the trail to check out. The views are stunning. Willows line the river and stream banks, turning yellow and gold before the trees in mid to late August, the first reminder that fall is just around the corner. The river tumble can be heard almost everywhere along this trail. Wild raspberries and strawberries are scattered through the trail and wildflowers are everywhere. The trail is pretty popular, so be ready for the occasional traffic.