Sweet September in the Scapegoat

While the Chinese Wall may get all the hype, the lesser-known Scapegoat Wall—a 1,000-foot-tall limestone escarpment — is equally impressive. It towers over the basins below, with high plateaus that stretch for several miles along the Continental Divide. Additionally, hiking in Montana during September is one of the best kept secrets under the Big Sky. It is the golden hour of our annual backcountry season with temperate days, crisp nights, and the changing fall colors.

On this seven-day trip, we hike through the transition zone between the plains and the mountains, along clear pools, and through mountain meadows before stopping for a few days to camp beneath the Scapegoat Wall. Along the Wall, we will get a chance to explore the area’s rich landscape and soak in the endless views and fascinating geology. After a traverse of the Wall’s base, we’ll meander downstream to experience the water-carved canyons and clear rock pools of the Dearborn River.

This trip offers a point-to-point traverse of some of the most scenic places in the Scapegoat Wilderness. The moderate pace makes this trip accessible to many, while the day hikes offer a more strenuous option with the opportunity to explore above treeline. If you are looking to experience a landscape of unparalleled splendor that’s off the beaten path, this is the trip for you.