Find the best day hikes to explore Big Sky and Bozeman, Montana.
Clear our mind and experience the beautiful scenery that Montana has to offer. “The mountains are calling and I must go.”- John Muir :: Early advocate for the preservation of wilderness in the United States of America.
Drinking Horse
This trail is located across from the popular M Trail, and one of Bozeman’s newer trails, popular with local hikers and runners. Just 4.7 miles from downtown, the 2.2-mile loop trail offers stunning views of the Gallatin Valley. It climbs a mere 583 feet and is rated as moderate, but many inexperienced hikers will find it very attainable with a relaxed pace. Dogs can use the trail, and it is a popular choice for families with smaller children as well.
“This is one of my favorite hikes. It’s not strenuous, and you have gorgeous views the whole time. Depending on the time of year, there’s an abundance of wildflowers along the trail. The hike itself is good for dogs, kids, and all skill levels. There’s a few benches along the way and the top is absolutely beautiful.”
The M
Perhaps the most iconic Bozeman hike, the M Trail is easily accessible just 4.9 miles from downtown. The short 1.7-mile loop gains 770 feet as it climbs to a large, white "M" sketched into the hillside. One side of the trail is more moderate, while the other climbs steeply, which allows hikers to choose the difficulty of their hike. This short trail is a favorite for pre- or post-workday exercise for busy Bozeman locals and their dogs, and offers impressive views of the valley.
“Fun hike and beautiful wildflowers everywhere. A reward at the end is a great view of the Gallatin Valley. ”
BALDY PEAK SUMMIT
For those seeking a challenging all-day adventure, Baldy Peak Summit is well worth the climb. The 9.6-mile, out-and-back trail gains an impressive 4,225 feet as it follows the backbone of the Bridger Mountains, and offers breathtaking views along the way. Hikers who are willing to brave the steep climb to the summit are often rewarded with sightings of mountain goats and wonderful panoramic views. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash. The trail is accessed from the M Trail, 4.9 miles from downtown Bozeman.
“Hard, but worth it. The “first” summit is not the real summit; alas, I had the epiphany that a real peak can be a false summit. The trail is steep and happily takes every last step, but the views are amazing, the trails are clearly defined, and it’s relatively trafficked. I recommend this hike to anyone who wants a challenge and loves incline! It took longer than I expected. ”
BEAR CANYON
Just 17 miles from downtown Bozeman, the Bear Canyon Trail covers 8.1 miles through a stream-fed canyon south of town. The out-and-back trail winds along a flowing creek and, after the turnaround, climbs to the Bear Lakes and then ties into the Chestnut Mountain Trail. Rated as moderate, this is a good choice for those seeking a hike with stops for sightseeing, lunch, and even fishing. The trail is in its best condition from March through October and accommodates dogs both on and off-leash.
“This trail is an easy trip and close to Bozeman. Plan for many hours to complete the trip at a moderate pace. I live at the trailhead and have hiked it for 44 years!”
MIDDLE COTTONWOOD
Thanks to its proximity to town (the trailhead is just 9.4 miles from downtown) Middle Cottonwood Creek is a popular trail for locals. The 9.2-mile, out-and-back is known for its colorful wildflowers and variety of side-hike options. It climbs 3,139 feet, with picturesque views of the surrounding mountains. A popular mountain biking trail, Middle Cottonwood Creek is also dog-friendly.
“Love this hike, beautiful in the fall as the colors change. Near the creek and dog friendly.”
SOUTH COTTONWOOD
A relaxed hike, the South Cottonwood Creek Trail is a 4.4-mile, moderately trafficked out-and-back just 13.1 miles from downtown. Busy on the weekends, the trail accommodates dogs on leashes and is popular with families. Hikers can enjoy several small stream crossings and a mix of terrain, including a fair amount of nearly flat terrain despite the overall 488-foot elevation gain. This is a lovely trail for hot summer evenings, as it parallels a creek and gains evening shade.
“Great hike. Mostly shaded with some open areas. Beautiful wild flowers and creek crossings with single log and handrail. Lots of dogs (most off leash) and mountain bikers. Alternates climbing/descending so it’s not all up, then all down. Very enjoyable hike!”
LOWER MOUNT ELLIS
Located just southeast of Bozeman, this 7.2-mile out-and-back is a great option for viewing wildflowers in the late spring months. Despite the fact the trailhead is merely 7.4 miles from downtown, this trail is lightly trafficked. Rated as moderate, it climbs 1,535 feet over its 7-plus miles and is popular with both hikers and trail runners. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
“Amazing view of ten mountain ranges from the top of Mount Ellis. About 10 miles out and back, 3050 ft elevation gain.”
HISTORY ROCK
The 2.8-mile hike to History Rock is a good option for all skill levels. Nestled just 17 miles south of Bozeman in Hyalite Canyon, History Rock is a quick out-and-back trail that gains a mere 698 feet, making it a quick, kid-friendly hike. Climb up to History Rock itself, a large sandstone boulder covered with engravings, and the perfect place for a quick snack, before meandering back down the hillside through forest views and rolling trail conditions.
“Beautiful, easy hike up slight grade. Had a 5 and 7-year-old with me and they had no problem at all. Greenfields and tall trees. Super easy to get to from Bozeman.”
EMERALD LAKE
The impressive, fish-filled Emerald Lake attracts its fair share of mountain bikers, hikers, wildlife watchers, and backpackers to its shores via the Emerald Lake Trail. This 8.9-mile trail is rated as moderate and gains 1,850 feet as it climbs to its namesake mountain lake. Keep an eye out for dogs and horses—both are allowed on the trail. The trailhead is 21.7 miles from downtown Bozeman.
“Fantastic and interesting trail, and a beautiful destination- worth the extra mile to get to Heather Lake.”
HYALITE PEAK
A trip to Hyalite Peak is one of the most iconic Bozeman experiences. A true all-day affair, this 16.2-mile, out-and-back climbs 3,789 feet and is rated as difficult. Along the way, the trail follows a meandering stream and features several crossings, before entering a meadow section with an overlook to Hyalite Lake. Then the real work begins with an exposed, steep climb to the summit. The Hyalite Peak Trail is popular with hikers, trail runners, backpackers, and even horseback riders, and dogs are allowed. The scenic drive to the trailhead climbs through Hyalite Canyon and passes Hyalite Reservoir, yet the trailhead is only 25.3 miles from downtown Bozeman.
“This stretch of the trail is the best of Hyalite canyon. Traffic drops off a lot after the lake. The path was still covered in snow in two parts as of mid-July.”
KNOW OF A GREAT Hiking Trail THAT SHOULD BE HERE?
