Lone Pine Trail | Glendive

Lone Pine Trail is a geological formation located in Glendive, Montana, USA.

This trail system traverses a landscape characterized by badlands topography.

Visual Characteristics

The terrain consists of eroded sedimentary rock formations, exhibiting layers of various colors including tan, brown, and red. Vegetation is sparse, primarily consisting of drought-resistant grasses and scattered juniper trees. The trail itself is unpaved, composed of packed earth and loose gravel.

Location & Access Logistics

Lone Pine Trail is situated approximately 8 kilometers west of Glendive, Montana. Access is via Interstate 94, taking Exit 210 for MT-16 South. Turn west onto County Road 301 (also known as Makoshika State Park Road). The trailhead parking area is located 3 kilometers from the park entrance. There are no public transport options directly serving the trailhead.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The badlands formations at Lone Pine Trail are the result of millions of years of erosion acting upon ancient sedimentary deposits from the Hell Creek Formation. These deposits contain fossils from the Late Cretaceous period, including dinosaur remains. The area is classified as a semi-arid grassland ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is the primary activity. The main loop trail is approximately 4.8 kilometers in length. Observation points offer views of the eroded landscape. Photography is possible throughout the trail system.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A small, unpaved parking area is available at the trailhead. No restrooms, shade structures, or food vendors are present at the trailhead or along the trail. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is intermittent to non-existent within the trail system.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for hiking is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) months to avoid extreme summer heat. Early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting for photography due to lower sun angles. Summer temperatures can exceed 32 degrees Celsius.

Facts & Legends

Makoshika State Park, which encompasses Lone Pine Trail, is Montana's largest state park. It is known for its significant paleontological discoveries, including the discovery of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skull in 1910. Visitors should be aware of rattlesnakes during warmer months.

Nearby Landmarks

• Makoshika State Park Visitor Center (0.5km East)
• Glendive Dinosaur and Fossil Museum (8km East)
• Yellowstone River (4km North)
• Town of Glendive (8km East)