On the trail: Hummocks

By Ciara Wolfe BSCO Executive Director

The Hummocks Trail is named for its rolling topography that creates a playful balance of ups and downs for an entertaining user experience. A hummock is a small knob or mound originally used to describe the bumpy topography found at the end of ancient glacial landslide debris. The hummocks on this 3-mile loop are shaded by forest canopy as the trail traverses aspen groves and two small wetlands.

Hummocks is a moderately difficult dirt-surfaced trail that accommodates runners, hikers and bikers. It’s known for three lollipop loops that allow users to customize the length of their workout. Those looking for more of a challenge can tack on another 2.2 miles of dirt exploration by continuing onto the Uplands Trail, which takes off from the same trailhead.

Located less than a mile from Town Center, Hummocks will quickly become a favorite trail due to its flexibility in distance and difficulty. Novice and experts appreciate the combination of topography and scenery. Don’t let its nearness to town fool you though—moose, elk and bear sightings are frequently reported, so be bear aware when recreating on the Hummocks Trail.

For more information about Big Sky’s parks, trails and recreation programs, visit bscomt.org. The Big Sky Community Organization is a local nonprofit that connects people to recreational opportunities by acquiring, promoting and preserving sustainable places and programs for all.

Trail stats

Distance: 3 mile loop roundtrip
Difficulty: moderate
Elevation gain: 400 ft
Surface: dirt
Uses: hike, trail run and bike
Directions: from Town Center, head east on Aspen Leaf Drive for 3/4 of a mile, crossing a bridge over the river and continuing up the road until you see the parking area on the east side of the road.