Hiking is an exciting, exhilarating, and healthy hobby. It can also be intimidating to someone who has never laced up a pair of hiking boots or heard of bear spray. But if you call Montana home, you’re never far from an easily accessible trail perfect for getting comfortable spending time in the great outdoors. At just two miles in length, the Drinking Horse Mountain Trail is the perfect pick — and the sweeping views are a beautiful bonus.
You’ll find the Drinking Horse Mountain Trail just outside of Bozeman, on the prominent hill across from the popular “M” trail at the mouth of Bridger Canyon.
Sarah Woodward / alltrails.com Due to its short length and fairly small elevation gain (minus one climb in the middle), this is considered a great hike for all skill levels.
The trail stays pretty busy during the warmer months, but the crowds taper off in the autumn.
Charles Conner / alltrails.com Winter is actually a fantastic time to hike the Drinking Horse Mountain Trail, as long as you’re wearing the right gear.
The trail takes you along the Fish Technology Center to a bridge over Bridger Creek, which is followed by the official trail arch.
Gentry Calhoun / alltrails.com You’ll hit a junction after that. If you veer left, you’ll deal with multiple switchbacks and a steeper climb. Go right and you’ll have an easier climb, although it will take a bit longer.
Whether you head left or right to make your climb, you’ll wind up at the same place - the summit.
Charles Conner / alltrails.com There, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Bridger Range and the Gallatin Valley.
You’ll want to take your time enjoying the sights on this trail, so you should allow two or three hours to complete the hike.
Lainey Colglazier / alltrails.com The miles may be short, but the climb is lengthy.
You’re welcome to bring your dogs on this hike, as long as they stay leashed.
Lainey Colglazier / alltrails.com If you have young hikers in the family, they’ll also enjoy this adventure, although the trail is a bit much for very young children or kids who have never hiked.
Have you ever hikes this beautiful trail near Bozeman?
Sarah Woodward / alltrails.com
Due to its short length and fairly small elevation gain (minus one climb in the middle), this is considered a great hike for all skill levels.
Charles Conner / alltrails.com
Winter is actually a fantastic time to hike the Drinking Horse Mountain Trail, as long as you’re wearing the right gear.
Gentry Calhoun / alltrails.com
You’ll hit a junction after that. If you veer left, you’ll deal with multiple switchbacks and a steeper climb. Go right and you’ll have an easier climb, although it will take a bit longer.
There, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Bridger Range and the Gallatin Valley.
Lainey Colglazier / alltrails.com
The miles may be short, but the climb is lengthy.
If you have young hikers in the family, they’ll also enjoy this adventure, although the trail is a bit much for very young children or kids who have never hiked.
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Address: Drinking Horse Mountain, Montana 59715, USA
