Added 2021-10-06
Windy Mountain Loop is in the Highwood Mountains near Great Falls, Montana. The trailhead is in Thain Creek Campground, which means you could easily make your adventure last a day or two.
From the campground, the trail heads north to a junction. Continue straight along trail 431 for about 2 miles along the creek. From here, the views of the tallest Highwood peak, Highwood Baldy, are excellent.
You'll meet another junction on the trail; go left here onto trail 454 towards Windy Mountain Pass. You can take the short climb to the mountain's summit or descend the 3 miles along Thain Creek to the trailhead.
This trail provides great views of the surrounding plains and faraway mountains. Watch your step, though; the path is lined with loose rocks. It's overgrown to the summit, and there are multiple creek crossings.