Drinking Horse Mountain Hiking Guide
Across Bridger Canyon Road from the M, Drinking Horse Mountain offers the same valley views with a little more shade and a lot more variety. The loop starts at the Bozeman Fish Technology Center, crosses Bridger Creek on a covered bridge and climbs through a mix of forest and open slope to benches overlooking the Gallatin Valley. It is a favourite for a quick loop with the dog.
The Loop
Mapping apps list the loop at about 2.4 miles with roughly 670 feet of gain; Outside Bozeman gives 2.2 miles and 700 feet. The south side is the gentler arm, while the north side is steeper, shadier and switchbacks through trees. Going up the north side puts the steep climb in the shade and gives you open views on the gradual descent.
Views and Benches
Benches along the upper loop look out over Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley. It is a great sunset spot, but carry a headlamp for the trip down through the trees. The west-facing sections are hot and shadeless on summer afternoons, so plan to hike early or late in July and August.
Dogs and Crowds
Drinking Horse is on the Gallatin Valley Land Trust's list of off-leash trails, and it is busy with dogs. Outside Bozeman warns about the high density of people and dogs, so keep yours under voice control and leash up when passing. During spring runoff, Bridger Creek runs fast and can be dangerous for dogs that go in after sticks.
Mud and Ice
The trail is muddy and slick in spring and icy in winter. Microspikes help on the north side's switchbacks from late fall into spring. Try to avoid walking around muddy spots, which widens and damages the trail.
Practicalities
The free lot is at the Bozeman Fish Technology Center off Bridger Canyon Road, about ten minutes from downtown. The same lot serves as overflow for the M trail across the road. Carry water in summer — the open slopes heat up quickly.
Hiking tips for Drinking Horse Mountain
- Climb the shady north side and descend the gentler south arm.
- Keep dogs out of Bridger Creek during spring runoff, when the current is strong.
- Bring microspikes from late fall into spring for the icy switchbacks.
- Hike early or late in summer; the west-facing slopes have no shade.
- Keep dogs under voice control — this is one of Bozeman's busiest off-leash trails.
Nearby trails to explore
- Bozeman M Trail
- Palisade Falls
- Storm Castle Peak
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Drinking Horse is a quick, friendly Bozeman loop — perfect for meeting new hiking partners. Use TrailMates to find Bozeman hikers and dog owners. Download the TrailMates app to connect.