Bozeman is a recreationalist’s playground, no matter the season. For people who like to head deep into the wilderness to the meditative rumble of a powerful engine, you can take your pick of summer on an ATV or winter on the sled. Here are the places to get your motor revving around Bozeman, via ATV or snowmobile.
Bozeman is an ideal gateway to the beauty of Big Sky Resort, where you can find a lot more than just chair lifts and lodges. There are also plenty of snowmobiling options on the surrounding National Forest land. The Big Sky Trail starts just outside of Bozeman and takes you all the way to West Yellowstone in a 123-mile epic ride.
Parking at the Moser Trailhead will grant you access to miles of sled-friendly trails. After driving half-mile up Moser Road, take the first left turn to stay on the north side where motors are allowed.
Between Bozeman and Big Sky, you have miles of Gallatin Canyon trails to choose from on National Forest land. Options like Storm Castle Creek, Moose Creek, Buck Creek, and a torrent of other spots will have you tearing up the snowpack in no time. You can get maps from the Forest Service website to help you get out there responsibly and legally.
The iconic mountains of the Bridger Range have plenty of places to get you excited about winter adventures. Check out Fairy Lake, Jackson Creek, or Flathead Pass from behind heated handlebars, supported by a warm seat, as the winter landscape flies past.
When dry dirt trails come calling in late spring and early summer, you have a wealth of options for your off-road vehicle experiences. Here are some top spots to enjoy.
Pipestone is a famous destination for ATVs, including 75 miles of smooth and speedy trails in this network, along with built-up jumps and other features. This BLM site sits on a rugged wild-west landscape of sagebrush and mountain views. Head west from Bozeman, and continue through the town of Whitehall. Before you start the climb up Homestake Pass toward Butte, take the Pipestone exit, and you’ll find the trailhead right off the interstate.
Just northwest of Bozeman, the small network of trails at Radersburg is worth exploring. This spot is a lot of fun, even though it’s not the biggest. You’ll find features like play pits and hill climbs to get the blood pumping while your engine roars.
At Moser Creek Trailhead, there are some single track and double track options for off-road riders. The trail is built on old logging roads, and you’ll find shared use with hikers, bicyclists, and trail runners. The Lick Creek trail gives you some inspiring views of the reservoir and surrounding mountains. This Forest Service motor vehicle use map shows all the motorized options in this section of the Custer-Gallatin National Forest.
When you’ve gotten in enough trail time, head to the rest of the Highline Adventures Blog for more inspiration on where to stay, the best places to go, and what to do around Bozeman.