Six Classic Bozeman Hikes
Accessibility to the great outdoors draws many people to Bozeman. I know it was one of the reasons I moved here. It was difficult to narrow down this list with many classic hikes within an hour of the city, but here are six standouts to check out if you haven’t already.
The M
The giant white M is a local landmark and is also one of the most popular Bozeman hikes. It is an especially terrific hike in the Spring when cheerful yellow Arrowleaf Balsamroot and wildflowers blanket the trail up. The views from the top offer up a patchwork of green fields and rolling mountains as well as Bozeman and its surrounding neighbors. The loop is 1.6 miles and takes anywhere between 30 minutes to 1.5 hrs. Insider tip, don’t take the steep path down. It’s not as scenic, and it’s easy to slip on the loose gravel. You can watch paragliders jumping off the M when conditions are right.
~15 Minutes from downtown Bozeman
*Please note that the distance on AllTrails is inaccurate.
Drinking Horse
This hike holds a special place in my heart. It’s was the first Bozeman hike that my partner introduced me to. It is a moderate 2.1 mile loop with beautiful views throughout. It is easiest to go counter-clockwise for a gradual ascent, and there is a nice amount of diversity considering how short the hike is. You’ll start by walking over a creek into woods that open to meadows and finally a breezy crest. There are benches at scenic overlooks and a picnic table at the top. Enjoy yourself on this sweet hike. Expect it to take 1-2 hrs.
~15 Minutes from downtown Bozeman
Sypes Canyon
Arguably the best views of Bozeman can be seen on this hike. Just like the Drinking Horse trail, Sypes Canyon is in Custer Gallatin National Forest. This 6.2 mile out-and-back trail takes an average of 3.5 hrs. It can be a bit of a challenge for novice hikers due to its terrain and length. I like to take my time and enjoy the wildflowers and views. There is overflow parking about a mile away when the limited parking spots are taken.
~17 Minutes from downtown Bozeman
Palisade Falls
Now, this hike is what I call low effort high reward. This 1.4 mile trail is paved nearly the entire way up. More of a stroll, take some time to check out the gorgeous falls. Overall, you’ll likely be back to your car in 30-45 minutes. The trailhead is usually closed in the spring, but there is a parking lot below that adds an extra two miles round trip.
~45 Minutes from downtown Bozeman
*Please note that the distance on AllTrails is inaccurate.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake makes for a fantastic day hike or overnight with spots to camp at the top. It’s about 9.2 miles round trip to Emerald Lake. Heather Lake is roughly another half mile past Emerald Lake. The entire out-and-back is ~10.2 miles and takes 5-7 hours. You’ll occasionally share the trail with mountain bikers and horses. The trail is well maintained and marked. Expect beautiful views, creeks, waterfalls, and good fishing.
~50 Minutes from downtown Bozeman
Sacagawea Peak
I saw mountain goats right on the path near the peak the last time I hiked Sacagawea. It is the highest peak in the Bridger Mountains, and the ridgeline definitely feels exposed. The hike is 5.2 miles and takes 3-4.5 hours, but it does have almost 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Consider this a more difficult trek. Expect beautiful views throughout. I’d recommend 4WD to reach the trailhead. Cool off and relax at Fairy Lake on the way down.
~1 Hour from downtown Bozeman
