About HYALITE PAVILION
Overview 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. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (661) 702-1420. Nearby Attractions Hood Creek Campground is approximately 1.5 miles from the Pavilion.
How to Get There
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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HYALITE PAVILION
Heading to HYALITE PAVILION? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HYALITE PAVILION?
No central reservation system listed for HYALITE PAVILION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251367) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HYALITE PAVILION?
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.
How do I contact HYALITE PAVILION?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-646-1012 or email: dhagey@goexplorus.com.
References & Official Resources