Bozeman, Montana is a hiker’s paradise. The city is situated in a valley with numerous mountain ranges surrounding it on all sides. Its international airport is growing and close to town making it easy to access. After living in Bozeman for years and throughly exploring the surrounding mountains, I have picked out the best of the best hikes in Bozeman, Montana.
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Getting To Bozeman, Montana
Find a flight easily through Kiwi.com. Kiwi is my favorite way to compare prices on flights and usually gives me the cheapest options! I usually use it to compare the prices and then will go on to the airlines website to purchase the tickets.
When you fly to Bozeman, be sure to rent a car as the public transportation is minimal. Plus the only way to get to all of the Bozeman hikes will be by car.
If you visit in the summer, Bozeman car rentals are in high demand. Reserve a car early as sometimes the airport runs out of cars.
I like to compare hotel prices and reviews using a few different search engines. Booking.com is a great way to find hotels and apartments to rent and usually my go to as it has a great rewards program. I also like to check Agoda. It sometimes has some great options that aren’t on Booking.com.
I have also written a local travel guide to Bozeman, Montana that gives you some of my recommendations for the best hotels in the area.
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Why Visit Bozeman
Most visitors to Bozeman intend to visit Yellowstone National Park. If you are planning a trip there (and you should!), staying a few nights in Bozeman is worth the stop over.
There is so much to do and see. Some activities include a visit to one of the largest and most up-to-date dinosaur exhibits in the world, a soak in a relaxing hot spring, local shopping at numerous boutique shops, outstanding fly fishing, and much more.
You can check out my local travel guide to Bozeman or I also put together a 5-day itinerary that showcases the best things to do in Bozeman, Montana.
Tips For Hiking In Bozeman, Montana
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Bozeman?
Hiking in Bozeman is incredible between June and September. If you are planning on peaking some mountains, shoot for later in the summer to avoid any snow that might be lingering at the top.
It is definitely possible to hike during other seasons as well. I would avoid the spring as it is the muddy season, but hiking in the winter can be really fun.
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Is It Safe To Hike In Montana?
Wildlife is the biggest safety concern most people have when hiking in Montana.
Grizzly bears and black bears are in the area. I thankfully have not run into any while hiking, but it is always important to be bear aware.
What does that mean?
- Bring bear spray with you and carry it on the outside of your bag. (Easier to access if you encounter a bear!)
- Make noise while walking. Talking is fine. The worst thing to do is to sneak up on a bear and scare it.
- Hike in groups of 3 or more. Groups make more noise than a single person. I have hiked plenty of times by myself. If you do hike by yourself make sure to listen for bears and make a noise every once in a while.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Hiking with your earbuds in can be relaxing, but it’s harder to hear a bear rustling next to the trail.
Best Hikes In Bozeman, Montana
Since Bozeman is a mecca for outdoor activity, there are so many magnificent trails to choose from around the area. You can find many waterfall hikes near Bozeman, lake hikes, mountain peaks and forest trails.
There is hiking as close as 5 minutes from the city limits with endless possibilities for all skill levels.
I have enjoyed hiking in the Bozeman area for years and the treks on this list won’t disappoint!
The following 12 Bozeman hikes are in order from easiest to hardest with helpful information included for each one.
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Easy Hikes In Bozeman
Now let’s get to the list of the best hikes in Bozeman. This section has the easiest hikes in the area. You will find some fantastic waterfall hikes near Bozeman and they are thankfully, some of the most accessible!
1. Palisade Falls
- Distance: 1.8 km / 1.2 mi
- Elevation gain: 73 m / 240 ft
- Average time: 30 minutes
This is one of the most popular hikes in Bozeman, Montana. The walk to Palisade Falls is a magical journey that leads through a pristine natural setting.
The trail winds its way through a lush mossy forest. When reaching the falls, you are greeted with a towering cascade of water plunging down rugged cliffs, creating a misty spectacle that sparkles in the sunlight.
The trail’s easy difficulty level makes it accessible to a wide-range of hikers including the kids and grandparents. The path is paved all the way to the falls, so you can also bring a stroller for the youngest!
The parking lot is paved and large.
2. Ousel Falls
- Distance: 2.7 km / 1.7 mi
- Elevation gain: 74 m / 243 ft
- Average time: 45 minutes
Ousel Falls trailhead is located in Big Sky, Montana which is about a 45 minute drive from Bozeman. Don’t let the drive deter you from going.
Pair this hike with lunch in Big Sky or grab a drink at the Beehive Basin Brewery.
The trail weaves through towering trees and alongside the soothing melody of the river, creating a serene ambiance. As you traverse the well-maintained path, you will spot beauty the whole way while your anticipation builds for the finale.
Ousel falls is a spectacular waterfall with viewpoints from high up, the base and the top of the falls!
Parking is a breeze. The paved parking lot has ample parking and is near Big Sky’s city center.
Note: As you can see in the photos, the amount of water rushing over the falls varies greatly depending on the time of year. Spring snow melt creates a large amount of water to flow while later in the summer the water levels decrease.
3. Grotto Falls
- Distance: 3.9 km / 2.4 mi
- Elevation gain: 85 m / 279 ft
- Average time: 1 hour
The way to Grotto Falls starts at the Hyalite Peak trailhead. The fairly flat trail meanders through a tranquil forest, allowing hikers to soak in the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
Peaks of the surrounding mountains sneak into view while you are making your way to the beautiful waterfall at the end.
If you are feeling adventurous and don’t want your hike to end, there are 11 other waterfalls that can be reached on this trail.
The next falls is Arch Falls where you can sit on an arch that covers the rushing waterfall.
The parking lot at the trailhead is large, but it can get busy in the afternoons and sometimes fills up.
4. Drinking Horse Mountain
- Distance: 3.5 km / 2.2 mi
- Elevation gain: 197 m / 646 ft
- Average time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
The Drinking Horse Mountain trail promises an invigorating hike with panoramic rewards. As you go up, the trail winds through pine forests, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape.
The climb is made exciting by moderate inclines, culminating in a summit that unveils stunning vistas of Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley. The teepee fort at the top will be a favorite with the kids.
The picturesque scenery and relatively short distance make Drinking Horse Mountain a popular choice for hikers seeking a memorable outdoor adventure.
Plus it’s only minutes from downtown Bozeman!
The parking lot is large and there is usually plenty of parking even with the popularity of the hike.
Note: After passing the Drinking Horse sign, the trail splits. If you venture to the right, the incline is a little less steep than if you go to the left.
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5. College M Trail
- Distance: 1.6 – 4.8 km / 1 – 3 miles
- Elevation gain: 250 m / 820 ft
- Average time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Across the street from the Drinking Horse trailhead you will find the College M trail.
This trail is one of the most popular and best hikes in Bozeman for locals and visitors alike. It offers a dynamic hiking experience that blends natural beauty with a touch of history.
The trail has two ways to ascend. You can walk left and go up a gentle incline through open meadows, gradually leading to a more challenging ascent. As you climb, the cityscape of Bozeman unveils itself, creating a unique urban-nature fusion.
If you are looking for a challenge, travel to the right to reach the top in only 0.5 mi or 0.8 km. This is not an easy way to climb, so only go this way if you are looking for a strenuous workout.
Making it to the “M” landmark, a symbol of Montana State University, rewards you with breathtaking views of the town below and the surrounding mountain ranges.
The juxtaposition of the outdoors and collegiate spirit makes the College M Trail hike a memorable and iconic adventure.
Fun Fact: Each fall, college students, faculty and staff climb to the M and paint the rocks making the M shine!
Tip: The parking lot at the College M trail is small. The City recently built a tunnel that connects the much larger parking lot at the Drinking Horse Mountain trailhead. Park there if there are no open spots.
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Moderate Hikes In Bozeman
The next section of Bozeman hikes will bring a bit more of a challenge, but are completely doable for someone in shape or older kids. Even some younger kids can do these hikes.
6. Lava Lake
- Distance: 8.7 km / 5.4 mi
- Elevation gain: 504 m / 1,653 ft
- Average time: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Nestled in Custer National Forest, the Lava Lake trail cuts across diverse terrain. Starting in a serene forest setting, the trail gradually gains elevation, offering glimpses of the surrounding mountains.
As hikers continue, the path evolves into rocky, challenging switchbacks. The highlight of the journey is the stunning Lava Lake, located amongst towering peaks and surrounded by rugged beauty, creating a serene and remote escape for those who make the trek.
Tip: Start this popular hike early or later in the afternoon when people are leaving in order to find parking at the trailhead. It is a small parking lot that fills up quickly!
7. Sacagawea Peak
- Distance: 7.2 km / 4.5 mi
- Elevation gain: 601 m / 1,975 ft
- Average time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
The hike to Sacagawea Peak starts off at the base of a gorgeous alpine lake, Fairy Lake. As you move up the trail, the landscape transforms from dense forests to expansive alpine meadows, showcasing a diverse array of flora and fauna.
I have seen mountain goats at or near the peak every time I’ve hiked this mountain! 🐐
The hike gains intensity as it nears the summit, with rocky terrain adding an element of challenge. Upon reaching the top, you are rewarded with awe-inspiring picturesque views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and distant horizons.
Note: The road to the trail is not well-maintained and only open from late June to September. I would recommend driving a high clearance vehicle or parking at the lower parking lot if you don’t feel confident driving around the potholes!
8. Storm Castle Peak
- Distance: 7.6 km / 4.7 mi
- Elevation gain: 562 m / 1,843 ft
- Average time: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Storm Castle Peak is one of my favorite hikes and probably one of the best hikes in Bozeman! The trail meanders through lush forests and open meadows at a regular incline.
It’s not too steep, but not flat either. As the path ascends, the reward is the breathtaking Storm Castle peak, with its distinctive rock formations and dramatic vistas of the Gallatin Valley and surrounding mountain ranges.
The parking area is very small right at the trailhead. If you can’t find parking there, there is another parking lot that you pass before reaching the trailhead. Circle back and park there.
9. Emerald And Heather Lake
- Distance: 16.9 km / 10.5 mi
- Elevation gain: 660 m / 2,165 ft
- Average time: 5 hours and 15 minutes
Emerald and Heather Lakes are worth the distance. The trail begins with a gentle uphill through dense forests, gradually revealing sweeping views of alpine meadows and jagged peaks.
As you continue, the path becomes steeper, leading to the hidden gems of Emerald and Heather Lakes. These pristine alpine lakes are nestled in between towering cliffs and vibrant wildflowers.
We split the hike up by backpacking our gear in and camping for the night at Emerald Lake. There are multiple spots around the lake designated just for this.
It also made it possible for our kids to join us with minimal complaining!
You shouldn’t have problems parking at this trailhead as it is a hidden gem in the area.
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Hard Hikes In Bozeman
These challenging hikes in the Bozeman area are excellent choices for those looking for a workout!
10. Mount Blackmore
- Distance: 20.8 km / 12.9 mi
- Elevation gain: 1,145 m / 3,756 ft
- Average time: 7 hours and 30 minutes
This popular trail in Bozeman commences with a steady climb through dense forests, offering glimpses of the surrounding summits.
On the way up you pass Blackmore Lake; a lovely spot to take a break. As you continue your ascent, the path becomes steeper, guiding you through rocky terrain and switchbacks.
The real magic happens as you approach the ridge where sweeping vistas of mountainous landscapes come into view. The rest of the hike is worth the effort while you take in the expansive, pretty views.
There are a few places to park when hiking to Blackmore. If there isn’t space in the Blackmore trailhead parking lot, you can also park at the reservoir. The reservoir parking lot is very large.
11. Pine Creek Lake
- Distance: 14.8 km / 9.2 mi
- Elevation gain: 1,108 m / 3,635 ft
- Approximate time: 6 hours and 30 minutes
Pine Creek Lake is a steep climb but oh is it worth it. It is by far my favorite lake I have been to in the Bozeman area. The pictures don’t do it justice.
The trailhead is located in Paradise Valley which is between Livingston and Yellowstone National Park. This stunning alpine lake is situated beneath towering peaks and surrounded by lush meadows.
The hike’s mix of varying landscapes and the breathtaking beauty of Pine Creek Lake make it a remarkable adventure. You even pass the beautiful Pine Creek Falls along the way.
Parking can get busy, but you should still be able to find a spot near the trailhead.
12. Hyalite Peak
- Distance: 23.3 km / 14.5 mi
- Elevation gain: 1,063 m / 3,487 ft
- Average time: 8 hours
The longest hike on the list of hikes in Bozeman is a rewarding endeavor. Not only is the stunning peak one of the best I have reached, but the whole trail is packed with incredible sights.
This trail is most known for following a stream that indulges you with 11 different photographic waterfalls and an instagramable lake.
Most people rest at the lake before returning to their cars and never make it to the best part. The breathtaking summit of Hyalite Peak offers 360 degree views and you will most likely have it all to yourself!
The parking lot is quite large at the trailhead but can get very busy. It is the same one to get to the easy waterfall hike of Grotto falls.
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