Bozeman is known for its incredible downhill skiing, but the locals know that Nordic skiing in this area is off the charts. So whether you are a classic or skate skier, just starting, or a serious competitor, we think you’ll be impressed. Here are a few options for cross-country skiing around Bozeman.
Around Town
The Bridger Ski Foundation is a non-profit community ski club that grooms free trail systems in and around Bozeman. Visit their website for lists of trails and grooming reports.
Bozeman Creek/Sourdough Canyon
This intermediate trail runs almost 10 miles to Mystic Lake on a gentle incline. For a unique winter experience, Mystic Lake Cabin is available to rent overnight. (Read up on the logistics, you’ll need to bring your own water.) The trail isn’t a loop, you’ll ski in and back, but there is a side trip to Moser Divide, a nine-mile round trip.
Bridger Creek Golf Course
Perfect for beginners or a leisurely ski, these seven miles of trails wind through the golf course. Loops can be as short or as long as you like, all with the backdrop of the Bridger Mountains. Sorry, dogs are not permitted on the golf course trails.
Hyalite Canyon
Surrounded by spectacular beauty, Hyalite is a mix of beginner and intermediate trails in a setting all of their own. Hyalite Reservoir sits in the center with an interconnected system surrounding the lake. Loops range from 3.5 miles to 12 miles into Window Rock Cabin, or for a shorter ski, Maxey Cabin is also along this trail.
Sunset Hills and Highland Glen Nature Preserve
Just outside the city proper, these trails adjacent to Bozeman Health are a mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced- with steeper hills and more varied terrain. Whatever your time frame, you’ll find a loop to fit. (Note, the trails cross through the Highland Glen Nature Preserve, which is private land, so please be respectful.) Dogs are not permitted on these trails.
Nordic Ski Areas
There are two Nordic ski resorts in the area, each with its own style.
Crosscut Mountain Sports Center
Located just 17 miles northeast of Bozeman, adjacent to Bridger Bowl Ski Area and Custer Gallatin National Forest, Crosscut Mountain Sports Center is ideal for those who are getting out recreationally and those in training for competition. Sitting on over 500 acres, Crosscut offers 45 km of pristine trails for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, biking, hiking, and biathlon. They also provide uphill skiing, dog days, and Nordic ski rentals and lessons for those just starting!
Lone Mountain Ranch
In nearby Big Sky, MT, Lone Mountain Ranch was voted #1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America by Cross Country Skier. Lone Mountain Ranch also has the designation as one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World. These 53 miles of groomed trails come with a 2,200’ vertical drop, giving you a thrilling experience if you are so inclined. The resort is open to day skiers, but for a winter experience like no other, stay in one of their cozy cabins and take a dinner sleigh ride.
If you enjoyed this blog, take a look at some of our other related articles:
- 11 Things to Know About Visiting Bozeman in the Winter
- 4 Dark Bozeman Beers You Need to Try This Winter
- What Makes Bozeman the Best Mountain Town to Visit This Winter
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