Overview

Just 5 minutes from Bozeman, Montana, Bear Canyon is a great outdoor recreation getaway for locals and visitors alike. Wildflowers speckling the Canyon delight hikers and mountain bikers while winter snow sport enthusiasts enjoy the close proximity of nearby ski resorts.

Location/Directions

Get to Bear Canyon by driving on I-90 east out of Bozeman to exit 313 and turn right on Bozeman Trail Road. Continue left on Bear Canyon Road to the end. Bear Canyon is about 25 minutes from Gallatin Field Airport.

Seasons

Gallatin Valley is spectacular year-round and has typical, yet sometimes unpredictable, mountain weather conditions. Summer temperatures range from low 50s to mid-80s, and in winter, 10-degree weather accompanied by a thick blanket of snow is common.

Activities

Camping
RV and tent camping are possible in Bear Canyon, off exit 313. Daily, weekly, and nonrefundable seasonal (May 1 through October 15) site reservations with access to a pool, hot showers, and laundry facilities can be made with Bear Canyon Campground at 800-438-1575. Other nearby campgrounds include Blackmore, Palace Butte, and Langohr Springs.

Climbing
Check out Bear Canyon Wall, located about a half mile from the end of Bear Canyon Road.

Hiking
Popular trails in and near Bear Canyon include Bear Canyon, Bangtail, Divide, and Red Rock.

Whitewater Rafting
Rafters paddle area creeks and rivers including Yellowstone and Gallatin Rivers.

Mountain Biking
Shared with cross-country skiers and snowmobilers, Bear Canyon Trail is a challenging trail option for summer riders, nearly 10 miles long.

Wildlife Viewing and Photography
Watch for deer, moose, great horned owls, wild turkeys, woodpeckers, and black bears.

Skiing and Snowboarding
A local favorite, Bridger Bowl is just a few miles into the Canyon at 2600 vertical feet.