One of the larger eight land units on the Sioux Ranger District, near Buffalo, SD
Designated recreational sites include: Reva Gap Campground, The Castles, Rabbit Creek Dam Fishing Pond and Summit Pass which provides an area viewpoint of the surrounding landscape.
The Hyalite Pavilion is a day use picnicking area located next to scenic Hyalite Reservoir in the Gallatin National Forest. It is 15 miles south of the city of Bozeman, MT.
Recreation
Hyalite Reservoir offers many recreational activities, including boating, canoeing and fishing. The Hyalite day use area has several picnic tables, a boat launch and ample parking. Many hiking trails are found in Hyalite Canyon, including the West Shore Trail, which can be accessed from the day use area.
Facilities
The Hyalite Pavilion is a 20 feet by 50 feet structure with existing seating for about 30 people at three non-movable tables. There is additional space within the Pavilion for users to set up their own small portable tables and chairs. A maximum capacity at the Pavilion is 80 people. Inside the Pavilion are two barbeque grills and a fireplace. Outside the Pavilion is a fire ring surrounded by sitting boulders. An accessible toilet is located approximately 250 feet away along a trail that meets accessibility guidelines (asphalt, 5% grade). Overnight use or camping is prohibited at the Pavilion; however, Hood Creek Campground is located on the opposite side of the reservoir. A hand pump for water is approximately 100 yards from the Pavilion. No garbage service is available at this facility. The Pavilion and its surrounding site were constructed through a partnership between the Gallatin National Forest, the Montana State University School of Architecture and local partners. It was designed to provide a sheltered group picnic facility that fits into its natural setting while taking advantage of the beautiful views to the surrounding hills, mountains and forest.
Natural Features
The Pavilion sets next to Hyalite Reservoir. The Reservoir, constructed in the late 1940s, contains cutthroat trout and arctic graying.
Nearby Attractions
Hood Creek Campground is approximately 1.5 miles from the Pavilion. Access to the West Shore Trail is located at the site.
Nearby Activities
Boating
Fishing
Hiking
Picnicking
Wildlife viewing
Day use area
Photography
Swimming
Mountain biking
Kayaking
Canoeing
Star gazing
Birding
Water access
Backpacking
Mushroom picking
Gallery
Directions
From Main Street in Bozeman, travel south on 19th Avenue for 7 miles to the paved Hyalite Canyon Road. Turn left and continue approximately 9 miles to the Hyalite Day Use parking area. The Pavilion is located at the far end of parking area.
From Bozeman take Hwy 86, northeast up Bridger Canyon approximately 18 miles. Parking area is on the right just after turning right headed to Clyde Park.
A trailhead along the MT/ID border that provides access to both motorized and non-motorized recreation.
Stay low to access the Lionhead OHV designated riding area and refer to Forest Map, Motor Vehicle Use Map and district designated riding map for trail information.
Stay high to connect with the Continental Divide Trail for hiking. The Continental Divide trail travels both north and south of Hwy 20.
The Bacon Rind trail takes off from Yellowstone National Park off Hwy 191 and heads into the Forest in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness – Monument Mountain Wilderness.
Hikers should be aware of park regulations prior to starting on the trail.
The trail access Monument Mountain and Snowslide Mountain with access to other trail connectors.
Sage Creek Trail #11 provides access into Sage, Carrot and Sunlight basins and the Cabin Creek Wildlife Managment Area. This trail referred to as the Skyline Trail is a unique horse and backcountry experience nestled between two Lee Metcalf Wilderness, the Taylor Hilgard and the Monument Mountain Units. A distinct and remote portion of the Hebgen Lake Ranger District.
This is prime bear country, always carry bear spray, have it readily accessible and know how to use it.