10 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Bozeman

Whether you live here or are just visiting, there's nothing better than watching the Montana skies light up as the sun sets over Bozeman. Here's our list of the 10 best places to watch the sunset in Bozeman.

#1. The M

This is the classic Bozeman sunset spot for all you hikers out there. With sweeping views of the Gallatin Valley, this is the best place to see why we call it big sky country. Just allow yourself enough time to climb the 820 feet, and be sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight for the way down!

#2. Cherry River

Oftentimes in Bozeman, the most beautiful sunset views aren’t looking west towards the sun, they are looking east where you see the most beautiful alpenglow on the Bridger Mountains. The Cherry River fishing access is one of the best spots in town to catch the color of the sunset on the Bridgers. You can walk along the trails or hang out by the pond, either way, you’re going to get a great view!

#3. Story Hills

For a beautiful view of the sun setting over the city Bozeman, take a quick drive up to the Story Hills viewpoint. You can watch from your car or take a short stroll onto the trail that winds over the hills. Just be sure to be respectful, private landowners have been generous enough to allow public access here. Recently the access has been closed to the Story Hills. Since it is at the private landowner's discretion you can't always count on being allowed on the road. If you head there for sunset and find it close, just head over to the Story Mill Park and take a walk on the trail as the sun is setting and watch the Bridgers light up in colors!

#4. Hyalite

While you may not be able to see the actual sunset from Hyalite, we promise you, the views are amazing. Watching the sky turn pink as it reflects in Hyalite Reservoir is easily one of the most beautiful things you can see in Bozeman.

#5. Sacajawea Peak

If you’re looking for an adventure, this is the sunset spot for you. Hiking to the top of the tallest peak in the Bridger Mountains isn’t for the faint of heart, but the birds eye view is worth it. The hike is short, but it’s steep, climbing 2,000 feet in 2 miles. Just be prepared for the rough road to the trailhead and be ready to hike down in the dark!

#6. Sidewinders

If you prefer to watch a sunset with a drink in hand, the patio at Sidewinders American Grill is the perfect place. With a second-story west-facing patio you can enjoy a Bozeman sunset in all its glory here. And you get to chase it down with a cocktail! If you're on the other side of town, the Sky Shed in the Armory Hotel is a great place for sunset. This rooftop bar is in the tallest building in downtown Bozeman.

#7. Peets Hill

If you want to go where the locals go, then head up Peets Hill around sunset o’clock. You’ll pass trail runners, dog walkers, bikers and strollers as you make your way along the trail. Doesn’t matter where you stop, the sunset view is amazing from every point. Extra points if you are lucky enough to snag a bench!

#8. MAP Brewing

This is our personal favorite sunset spot for two reasons. 1) The view. 2) The beer. While it's actually facing east, you can plop yourself on the MAP brewing patio and enjoy the reflection of the Bridger Mountains in the Bozeman Pond. If you ask us, there’s nowhere we would rather be.

#9. Snowfill Recreation Area

As one of the most beautiful dog parks in Bozeman, Snowfill is a popular place to be when the sun starts setting. With two miles of trails winding through 37 acres in the Bridger Mountain foothills, this sunset viewpoint does double duty. You can enjoy the sun setting on the horizon and get your pups out for some recreation!

#10. 100 Acre Park

Even though it is in the center of town, the 100-acre park feels like paradise with two trout-stocked lakes, a swimming beach, sledding hill and plenty of trails. To catch a Bozeman sunset, head to the top of the hill or towards the edges of one of the ponds.