What is the most popular hike near Bozeman?

The College "M." It is close to town and short, but steep.

Where can I watch the sunset?

Drinking Horse Mountain or Peets Hill. At Peets Hill you can park near the top and walk to the benches.

Are dogs allowed on Bozeman trails?

On most of these, yes, and many require a leash. Check the trail list above.

When is the best time to hike?

Late spring through fall for most trails. Higher routes hold snow longer, so check conditions first.

Some trailheads are close to town. Hyalite Canyon is about 17 miles south.

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Hiking Bozeman's Trails

A green mountain ridge and open valley seen from a rocky outcrop under a blue sky with clouds.

Bozeman is a hiking town. Peets Hill and the "M" Trail are quick, close-in options with big views for the time invested, while Hyalite Canyon and the Bridgers offer longer trails through alpine terrain just outside town.

Trailheads are easy to reach from most of our properties, and there's something for every fitness level, from an hour-long loop to a full day out. Bring water and check conditions before you go, especially early or late season.

Three hikes every visitor should know

The College "M." The classic Bozeman hike. It is close to town and not too long, but it is steep, and you will break a sweat. If you are afraid of heights, think twice.
Drinking Horse Mountain. Right next to the "M" trailhead, and more gentle. It is an easy spot to watch the sunset. Each trailhead has its own parking lot, and a tunnel under the road connects them. Park at one and walk to the other without crossing the street.
Peets Hill. Park near the top so you do not have to walk up. There are benches and a big view of the valley at sunset.

Trails at a glance

Drinking Horse Mountain: 2.2 miles (loop) round trip, 583 ft elevation gain, dogs allowed. Moderate.
College "M": 1.7 or 2.4 miles round trip, 800 ft elevation gain, dog rules not stated. Two route options. One side is steeper.
History Rock (Hyalite): 3 miles round trip, 698 ft elevation gain, dog rules not stated. Suits all skill levels.
Triple Tree: 3.4 or 5.4 miles round trip, 958 ft elevation gain, dogs on leash. Wildflowers late spring and summer.
South Cottonwood Creek: 4.4 miles round trip, about 500 ft elevation gain, dogs on leash. Mostly shaded, good on hot evenings.
Sypes Canyon: 6 miles round trip, 1,620 ft elevation gain, dog rules not stated. Starts at the north end of town.
Lower Mount Ellis: 6 miles round trip, 2,400 ft elevation gain, dogs on leash. Bridger Range views.
Emerald Lake (Hyalite): 8.9 miles round trip, 1,850 ft elevation gain, dogs allowed. A full half day.
Baldy Peak: 9.6 miles round trip, 4,225 ft elevation gain, dogs on leash. All-day effort. Starts on the "M" Trail.
Hyalite Peak: 16 miles round trip, 3,789 ft elevation gain, dogs allowed. Difficult. Snowshoes needed in late season.

Distances are round trip. Details come from Visit Bozeman, as of October 2026. Trail conditions change, so check before you go.

Matching a hike to your day

Short on time? Pick the "M" or Drinking Horse. Want waterfalls and alpine scenery? Head to Hyalite Canyon. Training for something big? Baldy Peak and Hyalite Peak are the long ones.

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