The 7 best biking trails in and around Bozeman, Montana

13.07.2024 - 10:07 / lonelyplanet.com

Jul 12, 2024 • 6 min read

Bozeman is renowned as one of the most liveable cities in the US, and a big part of that is its rugged beauty and how accessible it is to the community.

The city has incredible biking trails, from single-track adventures in the wilderness to leisurely pathways through urban parks that are perfect for kids and those new to exploring on two wheels. There's even an active cycling community ready to offer a helping hand or words of advice when needed.

We'd highly recommend a mountain bike for those who like to venture into the wilderness and go off-road. It opens up endless miles of grand mountains and forests around Bozeman, and you'll be able to cover much more ground than hiking would allow.

Numerous paved routes and urban tracks mean you can cycle in Bozeman regardless of the season or weather. Some hill trails are open year-round, and many ski resorts offer fat tire biking during the winter season, as well as fully-charged downhill rides in summer. These are our favorite trails to explore, and some top tips to ensure your biking trip to Bozeman is one to remember.

Best for fit mountain bikers seeking fabulous views
25 miles, 5–6 hours, intermediate, 3100ft elevation gain

Bozeman's single best day ride is this IMBA Epic Trail, starting in Bridger Canyon, 20 miles northeast of Bozeman. This intermediate route will take you high into the mountains for a fabulous wilderness workout and lots of downhill fun. The opening seven-mile stretch is a lung-busting uphill switchback in first gear, but the flowing single track then takes you on a classic ridgeline ride through meadows of scented wildflowers with head-spinning views of six mountain ranges.

The final section is a fabulous, swooping six-mile descent on Grassy Mountain. You then face a seven-mile road pedal back to your car, or you can be smart and arrange a shuttle pick-up. Pack plenty of water and lunch for this long day.

Best for families looking for a downtown park ride
2.5 miles round trip, one hour, easy

For an hour or two of active fun in the center of Bozeman, families can opt for an easy off-road bicycle ride on trails of packed earth and gravel running south from Main St and finishing up with ridge-top views over the city and Bozeman Creek.

Take the Gallagator Linear/Burke Park Trail from Bozeman Library through Lindley Park to Sculpture Park, before gently climbing uphill through Burke Park and then go south along the Bozeman Trail. The full return ride is around 2.5 miles, but you can turn back whenever you need to; several benches offer a chance for a breather.

Alternatively, follow the Gallagator Trail to Langohr Park (with its climbing boulder) and roll on to the Museum of the Rockies, adding on a visit to Bozeman's