Two Medicine-Heart Butte Trail

Two Medicine-Heart Butte Trail is a long-distance hiking route in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, run as a short segment of a Continental Divide Trail corridor through the Badger-Two Medicine area. Commonly, hikers explore it as an 8 to 10-mile point-to-point segment depending on start and end choice.

The route’s profile is described as moderate, with about 650 to 1,000 feet of elevation gain (and sometimes a bit more descent depending on direction). Expect roughly half-day timing: about 3.5 to 4.5 hours for an 8–10 mile exploration.

Trail character alternates between thick forest and open ground in subalpine settings, with subalpine meadows referenced as a key feature in the route’s overall experience. The area also includes aspen and birch groves along the way.

A notable geographic feature on the route is a crossing of the South Fork Two Medicine River. Plan for a river-crossing moment rather than a purely dry-foot stroll through valleys.

Common starting options include Summit Trailhead (off US-91 near Marias Pass) or a closer-in option near Heart Butte, so your mileage and time can shift based on which trailhead you choose.

Because the route is relatively remote and sees light traffic, some sections can become heavily overgrown during peak summer. Long pants are recommended for that seasonality.

The route is marked as allowing hiking; it’s also referenced as open to trail running, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Dogs are allowed on leash.

More information: Visitor information, Where We Work - Glacier-Two Medicine Alliance, Badger Two Medicine Backcountry Adventures: Day Hiking