The Top 7 Biking Trails in Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is celebrated as one of the most livable cities in the U.S., thanks in large part to its stunning natural beauty and the easy access it provides to the outdoors.

The city features an array of biking trails, from exhilarating single-track routes in the wild to smooth paths in urban parks that are ideal for families and beginners. Plus, there's a vibrant cycling community eager to assist and share tips when needed.

For those looking to explore the wilderness, we strongly recommend a mountain bike. It allows you to traverse the vast mountains and forests surrounding Bozeman, covering significantly more distance than hiking alone.

With numerous paved paths and urban routes, you can enjoy cycling in Bozeman no matter the season or weather conditions. Many hill trails remain accessible year-round, and several ski resorts offer fat tire biking in winter along with thrilling downhill rides in summer. Here are our favorite trails and some essential tips for an unforgettable biking adventure in Bozeman.

Biking Tips for Bozeman

• Bozeman's bike shops usually have a solid selection of rental bikes, so it's wise to check availability ahead of time at places like Bangtail Bikes and Owenhouse Cycling.

• Mountain bikers should be particularly cautious of grizzly bears, as the speed of cyclists and their quiet movement can surprise these animals. If you’re biking in the more secluded areas of the Gallatin Range, keep bear spray handy (ideally secured to your bike frame) and consider adding bear bells to your bike.

• Engage with the local biking community in Bozeman before you head out. The Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club hosts weekly rides, Alter Cycles organizes Friday social rides, and Bangtail Bikes puts together a ride every Monday night.

• Many trails are shared with hikers, horseback riders, and even motorcyclists, so be mindful of other users, especially during fast descents. Some trails may limit mountain biking to specific days, and e-bikes are classified as motorized vehicles regarding trail-sharing rules.

1. Bangtail Divide

Ideal for fit mountain bikers in search of stunning views 25 miles, 5–6 hours, intermediate, 3100ft elevation gain

The premier day ride in Bozeman is this IMBA Epic Trail, which begins in Bridger Canyon, located 20 miles northeast of the city. This intermediate route takes you deep into the mountains, offering a fantastic wilderness workout and exhilarating downhill sections. The first seven-mile segment features a challenging uphill switchback that will test your endurance, but it transitions into a flowing single track that guides you along a picturesque ridgeline, adorned with fragrant wildflowers and breathtaking vistas of six mountain ranges.

The final stretch is a thrilling six-mile descent down Grassy Mountain. Afterward, you'll need to pedal seven miles along the road to return to your vehicle, or you can opt for convenience by arranging a shuttle pickup. Be sure to pack ample water and a hearty lunch for this long adventure.

2. Main St to the Mountains

Perfect for families seeking a park ride downtown 2.5 miles round trip, one hour, easy

For a couple of hours of active enjoyment in downtown Bozeman, families can take an easy off-road bike ride along trails of packed earth and gravel, starting from Main St and concluding with ridge-top views of the city and Bozeman Creek.

Start at the Gallagator Linear/Burke Park Trail by the Bozeman Library, winding through Lindley Park to Sculpture Park, then gradually ascend through Burke Park before heading south along the Bozeman Trail. The round trip is about 2.5 miles, but you can turn back whenever you wish; several benches along the way provide perfect spots for a rest.

Alternatively, follow the Gallagator Trail to Langohr Park, which features a climbing boulder, then continue on to the Museum of the Rockies, adding a visit to Bozeman's top family attraction.

3. Mystic Lake

Ideal for mountain bikers seeking a leisurely ride 20 miles round trip, three hours, intermediate, 450m elevation gain

The Sourdough Canyon Trail follows Bozeman Creek to Mystic Lake, offering a relaxed and technically simple mountain biking experience on wide, well-maintained Forest Service dirt roads, meandering past babbling streams in the fragrant pine forests of the Gallatin foothills.

The destination, picnic-friendly Mystic Lake, features a Forest Service cabin for those considering an overnight stay. The return journey is entirely downhill along the same path, or you can opt for a more challenging alternative route via the exposed 'Wall of Death'—only suitable for confident riders!

4. Big Sky Biking

Perfect for lift-assisted mountain biking and thrilling descents Varied distances and durations, easy to advanced

From early June to mid-September, the downhill excitement at Big Sky Resort transitions from skiing to mountain biking. With three lifts serving 40 miles of diverse trails, riders can choose from extreme jumps to smoother, banked rides. Daily lift passes start at $51.

Beginners can try the two-mile Easy Rider trail from the Explorer Lift or join one of the weekly bike clinics to enhance their skills. The surrounding valleys also offer excellent cross-country trails, and fat tire biking is available in winter. Check out Christy Sports for rentals and trail info.

5. Spring cycling in Hyalite Canyon or Yellowstone National Park

Ideal for peaceful road cycling 15.5 miles round trip, three hours, easy

Spring in Montana can bring unpredictable weather and muddy trails, but it also offers two perfect road biking options. From April to mid-May, the picturesque Hyalite Canyon Road southeast of Bozeman is accessible to cyclists only, depending on snow and ice conditions. Enjoy the stunning paved route alongside Hyalite Creek, leading to Hyalite Reservoir, free from the worry of fast-moving vehicles.

Further south in Yellowstone National Park, the spring melt provides a chance for motor vehicle-free access on the park's western and northwestern roads, connecting Mammoth Hot Springs, Madison Junction, and West Yellowstone. Cycle as far as you wish in serene solitude, with the only traffic being the occasional bison (make sure to give them space). Electric bikes are permitted in Yellowstone National Park but not on Hyalite Canyon Road.

6. Crosscut Mountain

Ideal for novice mountain bikers and teens Distances and times vary, easy to moderate

Crosscut Mountain located north of Bozeman is perfect for newcomers and families. It features 14 miles of trails, including 10 miles of single track, providing ample opportunity to hone biking skills together. The nonprofit Crosscut organizes mountain bike clinics and week-long afternoon camps for tweens (grades 4 to 8) and teenagers. In winter, enjoy fat biking on groomed snow here.

7. Leverich Canyon

Ideal for those looking for a downhill workout near Bozeman 5 miles round trip, 1-2 hours, intermediate, 1250ft elevation gain

Just beyond Bozeman's southern suburbs, the Leverich Canyon loop trail begins with a three-mile ascent of 1250ft along the eastern side of the canyon, passing an old mine. The climb culminates in an exhilarating downhill ride on a bermed single track. Expect some air time at various spots, but be cautious as this is a mixed-use trail shared with hikers.