Custer Gallatin National Forest
Custer Gallatin National Forest spans the rugged landscapes of southern Montana and northern Wyoming, offering high mountain peaks, pristine rivers, and expansive backcountry. Visitors come to hike, ski, boat, and explore vast tracts of forest and alpine terrain.
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Geography
| Continent | North America |
|---|---|
| Region | Rocky Mountains |
| Subregion | Northern Rockies |
| Country | United States |
| State | MontanaWyoming |
| Timezone | AmericaDenver |
| Latitude | 45.5 |
| Longitude | -109.8 |
| Maps |
7:14 PM LOCAL TIMECuster Gallatin National Forest stretches across south-central Montana and northern Wyoming, formed from the union of several historic national forests and wilderness areas. Dominated by sawtooth ridges, rolling grasslands, and high-elevation basins, the forest provides a diverse mix of ecosystems and recreation opportunities. Popular destinations include the Beartooth Mountains, Paradise Valley, and the North Yellowstone corridor, with major entry points near billings, Bozeman, and Livingston. Activities range from multi-day backpacking and backcountry skiing to day hikes, alpine climbing, camping, and river sports on the Yellowstone, Gallatin, and Ruby rivers. The area is also rich in wildlife — including elk, grizzly bears, wolverines, and migratory birds — and supports permits and regulations focused on conservation. Whether you're planning a remote multi-night escape or a short scenic drive, Custer Gallatin offers a rugged and varied landscape to explore.
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