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Bozeman Real Estate Group
While Bozeman has some incredible hikes to peaks, waterfalls, lakes and more, sometimes you just want to enjoy nature without huffing your way up a trail. That’s why we put together this list of the 5 easiest hikes in Bozeman, Montana. We hope this inspires you to explore the beautiful trails and scenery at a more leisurely pace!
The M Trail (easy loop)
This one is a classic. The M Trail is arguably the most popular hike in Bozeman, and for a good reason. It’s close to town, you can choose your level of difficulty and when you make it to the top you are rewarded with stunning views of the valley. There are 3 routes up to the M, the steep way, the shortcut, and the easy way. To take the easy trail, hang a left at the first junction (there is signage), about ¼ mile up, there will be a shortcut trail to the right, don’t take that. Continue on the marked easy trail and follow the signs that lead you to the top of the M.
Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 850 Feet
Directions: Scroll to the bottom for a map
Sourdough Canyon/Bozeman Creek Trail
The Sourdough Canyon Trail is a great option for hikers of all abilities. The trail starts with a very gentle incline, walking along an old logging road next to Bozeman Creek. As you continue, you will enjoy views of the surrounding mountains as well as wildlife watching. The gentle incline is manageable for most skill levels, making it accessible for families and casual hikers alike. With its vibrant wildflowers in the spring and brilliant autumn colors, Sourdough Canyon Trail is a year-round destination that showcases the natural beauty of the Bozeman area. The length of your hike can be as short or as long as you’d like, the trail ends at Mystic Lake, 9 miles from the trailhead.
Length: 0-9 miles
Elevation: 40 – 1,797 feet
Directions: Scroll to the bottom for a map
South Cottonwood Trail
The South Cottonwood Trail takes you through a beautiful canyon, following a trail alongside Cottonwood Creek, enjoying beautiful vegetation and potential wildlife sightings. The hike begins with a moderate climb, but then drops down to the creek and continues through the forest at a gentle incline. The first bridge is narrow and takes a little bit of agility to cross so this would be a great turnaround point for those who want to take it easy. For those who want to continue on, a popular turnaround point is 6 miles in at the Fox Creek Crossing. For those feeling very adventurous, the trail does continue on with a bit of a climb to both the History Rock and Blackmore Trails in Hyalite Canyon.
Length: 0-12+ miles
Elevation: 300-900 feet
Directions: Scroll to the bottom for a map
Palisade Falls
This is one of the most popular scenic trails in Bozeman, and for good reason. The moderately easy and paved trail leads you to a stunning 80-foot waterfall in the heart of the Hyalite Recreation Area. It takes about 45 minutes to get from Bozeman to this trailhead, but it is a beautiful drive through the mountains and past Hyalite Reservoir. Once hiking, the 1.1-mile trail will lead you through the forest to the base of the waterfall. It’s common for people to explore the rocky area under the falls, but please be careful as many of the rocks can be loose or slippery.
Length: 1.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 249 feet
Directions: Scroll to the bottom for a map
Sourdough Creek Trail
This is less of a hike and more of a stroll but it is also the easiest on the list and the closest to Bozeman! The Sourdough Trail (not to be confused with the Sourdough Canyon/Bozeman Creek Trail) is a winding 2.5-mile out-and-back nature trail that follows a creek through a beautiful wooded area. There are several benches throughout the trail where you can stop to enjoy the creek. This is also a popular place for bird and wildlife watching!
Length: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 65 feet
Directions: Scroll to the bottom for a map
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