16 things to know before visiting Bozeman, Montana

Recognized as one of the trendiest towns in the American West, Bozeman attracts an increasing number of visitors due to its closeness to stunning mountain wilderness and a diverse population.

The town's vibrant, outdoorsy spirit is shaped by a mix of old-school ranchers in plaid shirts and Stetsons, Hollywood transplants, environmental advocates, writers, climbers, college students, hipsters, and craft beer artisans.

For outdoor enthusiasts, it's essentially a paradise – a mere 10-minute drive can take you from a downtown martini to a mountain trailhead. Bozeman fuses Montana's vast natural beauty with a modern, progressive ethos, leading the state in food culture, sustainability, and environmental consciousness.

However, the cost of living is on the rise. The influx of remote workers, attracted by the allure of space, clean air, and a better quality of life post-pandemic, has driven up housing prices, making Montana's fastest-growing town its most expensive place to live. Nevertheless, for visitors, Bozeman continues to be celebrated as one of America's coolest small towns.

As Bozeman increasingly becomes the gateway to the northern and western entrances of Yellowstone National Park, it’s wise to plan ahead. Here are some helpful practical and cultural tips to keep in mind.

1. Bring plenty of layers

Montana's continental climate is famously unpredictable, especially during spring and fall. Make sure to pack a variety of warm clothing, even in summer. While hiking, you might experience all four seasons in just one morning—sweltering heat in the valleys and icy temperatures as you ascend—so don't forget an extra windproof layer. If you arrive unprepared, the town boasts many excellent outdoor gear shops.

2. Reserve your campgrounds ahead of time

Bozeman's campgrounds become quite busy in summer, especially along the routes to Yellowstone National Park. Nearly all sites in the Gallatin area can now be booked in advance through Recreation.gov, so make sure to secure your spot, particularly for summer weekends.

3. Explore Bozeman's literary legends

The Bozeman area has historically drawn a literary crowd, so immerse yourself in the Montana mindset by reading works from its most celebrated authors, including local icons like Tim Cahill (Lost in My Own Backyard), David Quammen (Yellowstone: A Journey Through America's Wild Heart), Thomas McGuane (Gallatin Canyon), and Jim Harrison (Legends of the Fall).

4. Get ready for fishing adventures

For aspiring fly-fishers, reading Norman Maclean's A River Runs Through It or watching the 1992 film by Robert Redford is a must, much like obtaining a state fishing license. To acquire this license, visit the guidance section of the Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks website. Anglers in Montana need a conservation license, a base fishing license, and an Angler Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Pass (AISPP), so make sure you have all your documents ready before casting your first line.

5. Familiarize yourself with the neighborhoods

Bozeman features several unique neighborhoods, making it helpful for newcomers to have a brief overview. Downtown is anchored by Main St, extending for about six blocks, beginning at the Lark motel and concluding at Montana Ale Works. To the southwest lies Montana State University (MSU), the largest university in the state. To the north is the historic brewery district, which still hosts a few trendy microbreweries. N 7th Ave and N 19th Ave to the northwest are lined with big box stores, while chain hotels are clustered around I-90.

6. Be aware of drinking hours in Bozeman

Due to Montana's unique alcohol regulations, craft breweries can serve each customer only three pints and must stop pouring by 8pm. Arrive early and consider bringing a growler for takeout. For more options, non-brewery tap rooms, bars, and restaurants can serve until 1am, so head there after the microbreweries close down.

7. Savor the local cuisine

When dining in Bozeman, focus on local ingredients from the Montana countryside. For a true Bozeman experience, enjoy a grass-fed bison rib-eye steak, elk bolognese, or pan-fried trout, paired with a Lee Metcalfe Pale Ale or a huckleberry martini. Don't forget to finish with a slice of Flathead cherry pie, served with ice cream from Wilcoxson in Livingston.

8. Keep it casual, even for dinner outings

Montana's dress code is casual and laid-back, even in upscale restaurants. Expect to see plaid shirts, down vests, and Teva sandals or hiking shoes, along with occasional cowboy boots and a growing presence of Patagonia gear. There's no need for ties, tuxedos, fancy dresses, or high heels.

9. Don't be overwhelmed if you spot a celebrity

For years, the valleys surrounding Bozeman have attracted celebrities. At different times, Paradise Valley has seen residents like Jeff Bridges, John Mayer, Dennis Quaid, and Ted Turner, while climber Conrad Anker and actress Glenn Close call Bozeman home. Montanans typically remain unfazed by fame, so if you see a star, keep your cool and give them some space. In Montana, a subtle eyebrow raise is about as expressive as it gets.

10. Bozeman warmly welcomes dogs

Bozeman is not only environmentally and bike-friendly but also incredibly dog-friendly. Your well-mannered pup will be embraced on trails, at craft breweries, and on restaurant patios. Many local businesses even provide bowls of water and treats for their furry guests. The town features a dedicated dog park and even a dog beach at Bozeman Pond Park.

11. Get to know the local culture

If we had to sum it up, Montanans tend to be laid-back, unpretentious, and approachable. Their rugged individuality stems from a harsh landscape and a rich frontier history. Bragging is not appreciated; self-sufficiency is valued and often essential.

Most residents of Bozeman share a deep appreciation for nature, blending strong outdoor ethics with environmental awareness. This healthy balance between work and life is what attracted many to settle here in the first place.

12. Locals bond over their passion for the outdoors

Montana presents two distinct perspectives. One view of Bozeman showcases it as a liberal, environmentally-conscious college town, enthusiastic about progressive politics and Bikram yoga. The other perspective is held by many ranchers, loggers, and oil workers, for whom hunting, pickup trucks, and gun ownership are integral to their culture. While tensions do exist between these groups, a mutual love and respect for nature unites most residents.

13. The pandemic accelerated Bozeman's population growth and costs

Even prior to COVID-19, Bozeman was among the fastest-growing small towns in the U.S., and the pandemic has intensified this trend. The city now boasts around 56,000 residents, a significant increase from 41,000 a decade ago, with median home prices also doubling in that time.

In 2021, rents surged nearly 60% compared to the previous year. Although they have since stabilized, many working-class residents are feeling the financial strain in the housing market. Bozeman's cost of living is 20% above the national average, while median incomes lag about 20% behind, posing challenges for both locals and visitors on a budget.

14. Stay aware of grizzlies

Grizzly bears, often referred to as brown bears or 'bruins,' wander the mountainous and forested areas south of Bozeman. Notably, a black bear made its way into Bozeman High School during class hours in 2015! When hiking or mountain biking outside the city, avoid going alone, carry bear spray, and familiarize yourself with its use (you definitely don't want to spray yourself like you would with mosquito repellent!).

Remember, you can't bring bear spray on airplanes, so consider purchasing or renting a can locally and dispose of it properly at the end of your visit. You can either donate it to Forest Service staff or recycle it at the Bozeman airport or Yellowstone National Park ranger stations.

15. Don't forget the bug spray

From May to September, mosquitoes can be quite bothersome in the forests and meadows surrounding Bozeman, so be sure to bring along a reliable mosquito spray and a long-sleeved shirt. While mosquitoes in Gallatin County can carry West Nile Fever, cases in humans are very uncommon. Ticks, often found in areas frequented by deer, can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, so make sure to check for ticks after your hikes.

16. Keep an eye out for wildlife on the roads

The possibility of colliding with wildlife while driving in Montana is significant. Stay vigilant when traveling through rural areas near Bozeman. Reduce your speed and watch the edges of the road for any movement, especially during dawn and dusk, and particularly in the fall.