Top Hiking Trails in Bozeman for Nature Lovers

You could spend a lifetime uncovering the forests, lakes, and granite peaks of the Gallatin, Madison, and Bridger ranges surrounding Bozeman, Montana. Fortunately, we’ve paved the way for you—these invigorating hikes showcase the best that Montana has to offer.

Bozeman is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From June to October, you'll encounter mountain bikers, fly fishers, horse packers, and fellow hikers on the trails. Yet, with the vast wilderness available in this beautiful corner of Montana, tranquility and breathtaking views are always just a short hike away. Here’s our selection of the best hikes near Bozeman to kick off your adventure.

The M

Ideal Easy Escape from Downtown

3 miles (4.8km) round trip, 90 minutes, elevation gain 850ft (259m), easy to moderate

The brief uphill trek to the 'M' at Montana State University, carved into the hills just north of Bozeman, is undoubtedly the most beloved hike in the area, making it a great option if you’re short on time. Two dog-friendly trails begin from the trailhead—the right path is steep and direct, while the left path features gentler switchbacks and is about a mile longer. You can combine both for a rewarding loop.

After about forty minutes of hiking, you’ll be treated to sweeping views over Bozeman and the snow-capped peaks of the Gallatin Mountains beyond. If this leaves you craving more, you can continue along the Bridger ridgeline to Baldy Mountain, which reaches an elevation of 8914ft (2717m), resulting in a total return hike of 9.5 miles (15.3km). On your way back to Bozeman, consider stopping at Map Brewing for a drink on the patio with views of the M, complemented by a pint of their aptly named Steep Terrain Double IPA.

Local Tip: If the parking lot is full (which is common), cross the road to the larger Drinking Horse Trailhead, where you’re likely to find more space.

Sacagawea Peak

Ideal for breathtaking ridgeline vistas

4.5 miles (7.2km) round trip, 3 hours, elevation gain 2100ft (640m), moderate to strenuous

While most hikers venture south from Bozeman towards Yellowstone, break the mold by exploring the quieter Bridger Range to the northeast. A bumpy drive along Fairy Lake Rd (Forest Road #74) will lead you close to the trailhead camping area and a stunning turquoise lake—perfect for a refreshing dip on your way back.

The trail begins with a steep ascent, winding through vibrant meadows filled with paintbrush flowers and challenging switchbacks that lead you to a high saddle above the treeline. Be on the lookout for Montana's amusing white-tufted mountain goats as you take in the breathtaking views.

The final stretch features a thrilling ridge walk to the prominent slab of Sacagawea Peak, standing at 9654ft (2943m), which is the highest point in the Bridger range and named in tribute to the Shoshone woman who led Lewis and Clark through the valleys west of Bozeman.

Hyalite Creek Trail

Ideal for waterfall and lakeside vistas

11 miles (17.7km) round trip, 5 hours, elevation gain 2000ft (607m), moderate

For a glimpse of the stunning Gallatin Range south of Bozeman, drive past the paddleboarders at Hyalite Reservoir and head straight to the Hyalite Creek trailhead. Over a gradual 5-mile (8km) ascent, you'll encounter 11 beautiful waterfalls and enjoy fantastic views of the glacial U-shaped valley. Keep an eye out for elk, bears, and even bighorn sheep. Arrive at picturesque Hyalite Lake in time for a perfect picnic by the water.

Adventurous hikers can continue another 2.5 miles (4km) along winding switchbacks to reach Hyalite Peak at 10,295ft (3138m), offering stunning 360-degree views of Lone Mountain, Paradise Valley, and the Gallatin Crest Trail as it stretches toward Yellowstone National Park.

After your adventure, it’s a 20-mile (32km) drive back to Bozeman for dinner, but you can pack s'mores and stay overnight at one of the three fragrant pine Forestry Service campgrounds in Custer Gallatin National Forest (Hood Creek, Langohr, and Chisholm).

Lava Lake

Top day hike in the Gallatin area

6 miles (9.7km) round trip, 3–4 hours, elevation gain 1600ft (488m), moderate

Heading south from Bozeman toward Yellowstone National Park, the stunning Gallatin Canyon features numerous enticing side trails, with the most accessible and popular leading to Lava Lake. The path winds alongside the rushing Cascade Creek, passing through pine forests and vibrant meadows, before emerging into a picturesque bowl surrounded by mountains, part of the protected Lee Metcalf Wilderness.

At the lake, enjoy thrilling paddling and trout fishing. The valley also offers a convenient overnight camping option, although fires are prohibited within half a mile of the shoreline. The Lava Lake Trailhead is a short 30-minute drive from Bozeman, southwest on Hwy 191, but be cautious where the trailhead road meets the busy highway traffic.

Beehive Basin

Ideal for expansive sky views and local microbrews

6.5 miles (10.5km) round trip, 3–4 hours, elevation gain 1500ft (457m), easy to moderate

Our top pick for hiking at Big Sky, located 50 miles southwest of Bozeman, this half-day trek ascends through a breathtaking glacier-formed cirque to two alpine lakes that beautifully reflect the striking gneiss cliffs of the Spanish Peaks in the background. Along the way, enjoy views of the pyramid-shaped Lone Mountain, which is also a fantastic destination for a summer hike before its slopes transform into some of Montana's finest ski runs in winter.

Grab a gourmet picnic lunch at the Hungry Moose Deli in Big Sky on your way to the trailhead, then cap off your perfect Montana day with a post-hike microbrew at Big Sky's Beehive Basin Brewery, named in honor of this very hike.

Spanish Peaks

Ideal for exquisite backcountry camping

15–25 miles (24–40km), 2–3 days, strenuous

For a quintessential multi-day backpacking adventure, look no further than the rugged and stunning trek to the Spanish Peaks, nestled deep within the Madison Range southwest of Bozeman. This picturesque area boasts a collection of mountain lakes at the foot of 11,000ft (3350m) peaks, where valleys teem with wildlife including mountain goats, deer, elk, bears, marmots, and adorable pika that resemble rabbits.

With numerous breathtaking lakes to discover, the most popular trail takes you directly to the four Spanish Lakes, with an optional side trip to Mirror Lake. To turn your hike into a three-day, two-night journey, include a visit to Jerome Rock Lakes and Lake Solitude. Alternatively, seek out an unnamed tarn, pitch your tent for the night, and enjoy the alpenglow illuminating the rocky walls above.

The Spanish Peaks Trailhead is located 30 miles (48km) from Bozeman, approximately 8 miles (13km) up Spanish Creek Rd. Keep an eye out for grazing bison at the Flying D Ranch, owned by media mogul Ted Turner, founder of CNN, along the way.

Hiking tips for Bozeman, Montana

• Before hitting the trails, visit the Custer Gallatin National Forest office in western Bozeman for the latest updates on trail closures, fire conditions, and bear activity.

• Since Montana is home to grizzly bears, always carry bear spray, know how to use it, and keep it easily accessible during your wilderness hikes.

• If you lack certain gear, don’t worry—Bozeman’s outdoor shops offer essentials like bear spray, bug spray, local topo maps, and hiking guidebooks.

• In Montana’s mountains, weather can shift quickly, so pack warm clothing, a dry base layer, and a sun hat.

• Cell coverage is unreliable in the mountains; always inform someone of your plans and estimated return time in case of emergencies.