Strawberry Hill Recreation Area

Just outside Miles City, Strawberry Hill brings a surprising mix of sagebrush, ponderosa pine and weathered rock formations to the Yellowstone Valley. Its rocky shapes make this a place to wander attentively rather than simply chase a distant summit.

A three-mile exploration through the recreation-area network offers chances to move between shaded trees, open slopes and overlooks toward the valley. The terrain feels like a small geological playground, but the undeveloped setting requires self-sufficient planning.

ONCE YOU’RE THERE From I-94 Exit 141 travel about 5.5 miles east to the recreation-area entrance. Park at the entrance rather than committing a low-clearance vehicle to the primitive interior road. Continue on foot through the sage-and-pine landscape, use established routes to explore the rock formations and return to the same entrance.

WHAT MAKES THIS PLACE SPECIAL Walk three miles through sage, ponderosa pine and strange rock formations above the Yellowstone Valley. Distinctive formations break up the sagebrush and ponderosa-pine landscape. Higher ground opens toward the Yellowstone Valley.

DON’T MISS THIS Find the formation that looks least like geology and most like something with a face. You can park at the entrance and explore on foot instead of taking a vehicle farther in.

TRAIL CONDITIONS & SAFETY There are no developed facilities; the interior road is primitive, so entrance parking is a practical choice. There are no developed facilities on site; arrive self-contained and pack everything out.

BEFORE YOU GO Plan for about ~1.5–2 hrs and 3 miles of travel. Return to the established start without extending the outing beyond your conditions and preparation. Check local conditions and access notices before departure.