There is so much to do here, the hard part will be fitting everything you want to do into just a short time period. Pick out an activity you haven't experienced yet. Challenge yourself with an adventure you wouldn't typically take part in. The mountains and rivers that border Bozeman are riddled with recreational opportunities. The town itself offers a smorgasbord of festivities geared to tickle your senses. Check out some of what we have to offer here!
Full Day Suggestions
Yellowstone National Park
This is a must, especially if you haven't been to the park before! The scenery and wildlife is truly remarkable, with bears, wolves, and buffalo meandering through traffic regularly. Bring a swim suit and experience the hot and cold currents of the boiling river, one of my favorite parts of the park.
$30 entrance fee - pass is good for 7 days
Paddle & Saddle
If you have the time and the gusto, this combo is a great way to experience Bozeman's big backyard. The first half of the day is spent exploring the Yellowstone area's diverse terrain on horseback while the latter half is spent rafting down the wild Yellowstone River.
Find more information on Bozeman's Paddle & Saddle.
Hiking
Coming to Bozeman and not hiking is like going to a bakery and not sampling their pastries. Well, sort of. There are miles of hiking trails in the mountain ranges around Bozeman. For a full day hike, try the Lava Lake (Cascade Creek) Trailhead in the Spanish Peaks area south of Bozeman.
Explore other nearby Hiking Trails
Fly Fishing
Hire a guide and spend the day fishing one of the pristine rivers surrounding Bozeman. The Gallatin, Jefferson, Madison, Yellowstone, and Missouri Rivers are easily accessible and considered the crème de la crème of fly fishing destinations.
Fly Fishing Guides and Shops
Golfing
We have two public golf courses in Bozeman; Cottonwood Hills and Bridger Creek. Nestled at the base of the Bridger Mountains, Bridger Golf Course offers that priceless picturesque scenery. Cottonwood, also beautiful, offers a 9 Hole Executive Par 3 course, which I especially enjoy.
Contact Cottonwood Hills at (406) 587-1118
Contact Bridger Creek at (406) 586-2333
Half Day Suggestions
Floating
A popular way to cool off from the summer heat is to float the rivers here. A local favorite is the Madison River, known for its slow-paced stretches of water. Put in at Warm Springs turnout, float down the river for 3 hours or so, and take out at Blacksford.
Find Boat Rentals or Guided Trips
Trails & Pathways
With our vast network of trails in and around Bozeman, it's a challenge picking just one. I would recommend hiking as many trails as you can while you are in the area. One of our pride and joy's is Bozeman's “Main Street to the Mountains” trail, which begins at the Bozeman library on the East end of town. Depending on your fortitude, you can choose any of 50 miles of trail that winds its way through Bozeman parks all the way to the top of scenic ridgelines.
Climbing
Bozeman is home to world-class climbers, who have really popularized rock climbing in the area. With the Absaroka, Gallatin, and Crazy Mountain Ranges, Bozeman is an excellent source for any person who loves to climb! We have 4 rock climbing structures that have been built around town as well, which cater to all age groups as well as all skill levels.
Find Climbing Guides and Gear
Biking
There are miles of bike trails in and around Bozeman to choose from. One of my favorites is Sourdough Creek Loop. This wide trail is just right, not too technical but will get your heart racing. The creek cuts through the trail about 5 miles in, perfect for that mid-cruise dip. Located 7 miles south of Bozeman in the foothills of the Gallatin Range.
Bike rentals are available at a couple stores in town.
Hot Springs
Looking for a win-win situation? Drive 33 miles west of Bozeman and try out Norris Hot Springs. Every weekend there is live music playing right by the pool and refreshments nearby as well.
Check the music schedule at Norris Hot Springs.
Museum of the Rockies
The museum showcases an extensive paleontology collection as well as a world-class planetarium, however the new Children's Discovery Center has been the highlight for families. Come check out the exhibits!
Open 7 days a week.
Visit www.museumoftherockies.org for more information.
Events
Music on Main
Every Thursday evening from 6:30 to 8:30 for the majority of the summer, concerts are held in Historic Downtown Bozeman. Streets are closed off, food vendors are out, and the dancing shoes come on.
More Info on Music on Main
Sweet Pea Festival
Promoting and cultivating the arts is Sweet Pea's primary focus. Find parades, art & crafts, musicians, fabulous refreshments, and so much more. This is a great opportunity for visitors to experience first hand how appreciated and celebrated our community is to us.
More Info on the Sweet Pea Festival
Farmers Markets
In an effort to support local businesses, our markets provide locally grown produce, diverse arts & crafts, as well as musical performances from local artists. Find these savory markets throughout the summer at two locations; Bogert Park on Tuesday's and the Gallatin County Fairgrounds on Saturday's.
ArtWalk
If you have an appreciation for art, you will enjoy Bozeman's Downtown ArtWalk. Main Street opens it's sidewalks and doors to display art in many shapes, colors, and sizes. You may find anything from local graffiti to brush work from China. This event happens on the 2nd Friday of every month from 6 – 8 PM.
If you are interested in additional Bozeman events and summer activities, definitely check out Local Tips and Advice on what Bozeman brings to the table.
Evening Entertainment
Dining
Bozeman has a laundry list jammed full of restaurants. Come sample one of our local brews at the Bozeman Brewing Company downtown! The outdoor seating, quaint atmosphere, and amazing rolls at Dave's Sushi always lures me back for another bite.
Nightlife
What you seek, you shall find here. For an unforgettable martini and a dynamite cheese board, make your way to Plonk, a swank little bar downtown.
Reservations
Transportation
Car rentals are available at the Gallatin Field Airport in Bozeman as well as in town. Several options for taxi and limo services are available, as well as a town bus service which offers free transportation in and around Bozeman on a regular basis.
Find Bozeman Car Rentals
More Info on the Town Free Shuttle
Lodging
As bustling as Bozeman is in the summer time, it is always a wise idea to book in advance.
