Fall is Here and so is Buck Fever: Tips for Hunting Near Bozeman, MT

10/06/2020

Visiting the Bozeman area on a hunting trip places you in an ideal location to find big game, enjoy stunning landscapes, and take advantage of everything the town has to offer. When you’re planning a trek to hunt in Montana, the Bozeman area has a whole lot to offer as far as wildland and easy access to amenities, including dining, drinks, and a historic downtown. And when it comes time to head out over the rugged countryside, stalking big game, the region comes through too. Here’s what you have to look forward to with a hunting trip near Bozeman.

Public Land Locale

The Gallatin Valley grants easy access to plenty of public lands. The Gallatin National Forest starts right outside of town, extending north, south, and east for nearly 2 million acres. The expansive space takes you back into the Madison, Gallatin, Spanish Peaks, and Bridger ranges, going deep to take you into elk, deer, moose, bear, and more. With a thriving ecosystem containing more than 300 species of wildlife, your hunting experience can encompass even more than finding your quarry. Enjoy the crisp air and sunshine of fall in southwest Montana, and embrace the outdoors under the Big Sky.

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Access to Licensing and Outfitters

Bozeman gives you a quick gateway to the wilderness while still having every service you need near at hand. That includes things like licensing offices and outfitters, where you can get geared up and ready for the backcountry. The regional Fish, Wildlife & Parks office is right in town, so that you can head there for last-minute tags or questions about regulations. And then when you’re getting ready to head out into the woods, get your gear from outdoor favorites like Schnee’s and Bob Ward’s.

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Family Friendly

Even if the whole family isn’t planning to hunt, there’s plenty to do in Bozeman. So you can get out there without leaving them behind. When you return in the evenings, reconnect and hear what they got up to, whether it’s a trip to Dinosaur Park, a visit to the Museum of the Rockies, or a treat enjoyed from Bozeman sweet spots like Sweet Peaks or Wild Crumb. Don’t waste moments far away from the family when they could be right there with you, waiting to hear stories of close encounters and four-point bucks.

Ease of Accommodation

There are a whole host of accommodation options in the Bozeman area. With Highline Adventures, you can pick between camping convenience at the Bozeman Trail Campground, where you can park up your camper or RV without being out in the boonies. The campground stays open until the end of October, offering full hookups and plenty of services. This is a far cry from wilderness hunt camps since you can enjoy WiFi, laundry service, and quick access to the interstate.

Or you can opt for a hotel stay at the Baymont by Wyndham Bozeman. This is a great option if the kids are coming along since they can get excited about the indoor pool and waterslide while you’re out tromping ridges and glassing mountainsides.