Bozeman M Trail Hiking Guide
Montana college towns love a letter on a hill, and Bozeman's has been there since Montana State students built it in 1915. The trail to the M, at the mouth of Bridger Canyon ten minutes from downtown, is the town's default hike: a short, stiff climb to a big view over the Gallatin Valley, done before work, after work, with dogs, with visitors, in every season.
Two Ways Up
The Gallatin Valley Land Trust, which stewards the trail, describes three routes to the M, from about 1 to 3.6 miles round trip, with around 750 feet of gain. The direct route is short and very steep; the winding route takes longer but is far kinder on the knees. Most people take the steep way up and the gradual way down, making a loop of about 1.6 miles.
The View
From the M you look out across Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley to the mountain ranges on the horizon. Many hikers turn around here; others continue up the ridge on the Bridger Foothills Trail for a longer outing. Mountain bikes are prohibited on the M trails, except on the connector to the Bridger Foothills Trail.
Mud, Ice and Seasons
The M dries out earlier in spring than most Bozeman trails, which makes it a popular first hike of the year, though it is still muddy in wet spells. In winter the steep route is slick with snow and ice — traction devices are essential. Summer afternoons are hot on the exposed slope, so early mornings and evenings are best.
Parking
The M trailhead is on Bridger Canyon Road, the continuation of Rouse Avenue. Its lot is small and fills quickly; overflow parking is at the Drinking Horse Mountain lot across the road, connected by a pedestrian underpass. There is a vault toilet at the trailhead and no fee. Outside Bozeman rates traffic here as very heavy.
Dogs
The M is one of Bozeman's off-leash trails: dogs may be off leash under voice control but must stay on the trail. Follow any posted signs, pick up after your dog, and leash up in the parking area and around other dogs and hikers who ask.
Hiking tips for Bozeman M Trail
- Go up the steep route and down the gradual one to spare your knees.
- Carry traction in winter — the steep route is icy for months.
- Use the Drinking Horse lot and the underpass when the M lot is full.
- Keep dogs under voice control and on the trail, per the off-leash rules.
- Continue on the Bridger Foothills Trail if the M leaves you wanting more.
Nearby trails to explore
- Drinking Horse Mountain
- Palisade Falls
- Lava Lake
Hike this trail with TrailMates
The M is Bozeman's easiest hiking meetup — short, steep and ten minutes from town. Use TrailMates to find Bozeman hikers for a morning climb. Download the TrailMates app to connect.