Overview
There’s nothing quite like the thrill of cruising over the snow on a snowmobile. Montana gets plenty of snow during the winter months, making it an ideal place to enjoy snowmobiling. Rather you are seeking solitude or exhilarating fun, you will find both as you explore the many snowmobile trails in and around the Bozeman area.
Where to go snowmobiling
Some favorite riding places close to Bozeman include Brackett Creek, Buck Creek, Olson Creek, Hyalite Canyon and Squaw Creek.
The Bridger Range provides short easy rides and a variety of snowy bowls for playing. The snowmobile season begins around Dec. 1 and cool springs can extend the season as late as April.
Just south of Bozeman, at Bear Creek, sledders will find the access to the 110-mile Big Sky Trail, ending near West Yellowstone. From there, riders can access Yellowstone Park. Remember that only guided snowmobile tours are allowed within Yellowstone National Park.
Gallatin Canyon Area
- Big Sky Snowmobile Trail - 123 miles, a marked trail starting at Little Bear Creek south of Bozeman to Grayling Creek near West Yellowstone; for experienced, well-conditioned parties. Shorter trips, using certain segments of the Big Sky trail, can be made by using the Squaw Creek (a), Moose Creek (b), Buffalo Horn Creek (c), or Taylor Fork entrances. Portions of the Big Sky Trail are groomed.
- Squaw Creek to Moose Creek - 15 miles - not groomed and may be difficult.
- Moose Creek to Porcupine Divide - 11 miles - road grades to 30 percent. Adjacent to Highway 191.
- Porcupine Divide to Buffalo Horn -12 miles - ungroomed and marked. Can be hazardous - grades to 40 percent. Not recommended for novice drivers. You must stay on marked trail through the winter elk range. No snowmobiling on Porcupine Creek Trail.
Bridger Ranger Area
- Fairy Lake - 6 miles of snow - covered road with play areas.
- Brackett Creek - 9 miles of snow-covered roads with numerous open play area.
- Olson Creek-Skunk Creek - 9 miles of snow-covered roads with large play area on the divide. Note: the entire Stone Creek drainage is closed to snowmobiles.
- Jackson Creek - 8 miles of easy to moderate class, snow-covered road, snowmobile route with many play areas.
- Flathead Pass - 12 miles of snow-covered road over the Bridger Range divide with play area near pass. Take Highway 86 to Wilsall. Approximately 8 miles past the Brackett Creek Y, watch for sign.
The forest service travel plan lists trails as well as any restrictions. To purchase a copy, call or write the
Bozeman Ranger District
3710 East Fallon Street
Bozeman, MT 59718
406-522-2520
Rentals & Fees
Snowmobile rentals are available at several locations in Bozeman. Rental prices for a day 8 am – 6 pm can range from $99.00 to $227.00 per day depending on the year, make and model of the snowmobile. We suggest that you call to find out the pricing and possibility of having a rental package tailored to your vacation needs.
Hire a Guide
Snowmobile guides offer a wide variety of snowmobile options and packages. They are familiar with the area and the machines. They are experience, friendly and knowledgeable and can take care of people who have never been snowmobiling or enhance the experience for the rider who wants to take it to the next level.
And remember only guided snowmobile tours are allowed within Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
Safety Precautions
- Ride on the right hand side of any trail.
- Ride at a reasonable rate of speed for your level of experience.
- Use hand signals.
- Ride defensively.
- Ride sober.
- Practice common sense.
- Let someone know your plans.
