Go Off the Beaten path in Bozeman
Variety is the spice of hiking in Bozeman. Our town puts you in reach of everything from an easy one-mile lake loop to a 10-mile hike ascending 4,000 feet. Along the way you’ll encounter wildflowers, dense forests, panoramic summit views and lakes that invite you to take a dip or drop from a rope swing. Scan through our favorite trails near our downtown Bozeman Hotel and see which one matches your mood today.
Top Hiking Spots near Kimpton Armory Hotel
Fairy Lake
An easy one-mile loop takes you around this lovely green glacial lake complete with wildflowers and rope swing. Hike 2.5 miles up to Sacagawea Peak if you’re feeling feisty.
Palisade Falls
The result of a prehistoric lava flow, the stunning 80-foot Palisade Falls waterfall is your destination in this easy 1.2-mile hike through the picturesque Hyalite Recreation Area.
Drinking Horse Mountain Trail
We recommend hiking counter-clockwise around this steep 2-mile loop trail through diverse vegetation and terrain. At the summit: 360-degree views of Bridger Canyon and the Gallatin Valley.
"M" Trail
Created in 1915 by MSU students, the 250-foot white rock “M” can be accessed by the steeper right fork or the gentler ascending left fork.
Baldy Peak Summit
This strenuous hike is almost 10 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of 4,000 feet. Traverse through forest and wildflowers to an exposed ridge line overlooking panoramic views.
Emerald Lake
Enjoy alpine meadows and cascading rock walls on your way to Emerald Lake, a great spot to picnic or fish for graylings. The trail is nine miles round trip with 2,000-foot elevation gain.
Lava Lake
Wander through a dense evergreen forest on this six-mile round trip moderate hike. Before heading back, swim in the calm 47-acre lake, formed by lava flows.
Storm Castle
Ascend over 2,000 feet in 2.5 miles to a multi-tiered summit and sweeping river and valley views. Grab a photo of the rock arch overlooking the Gallatin Range.
Mt. Ellis
A Bozeman local favorite, this 10-mile out-and-back trail follows a logging road before a steep climb. At the summit: wide-open views of the Bridger Mountains.