Only In Bozeman

Surrounded by scenic mountains, rugged trails, and fish-filled rivers, Bozeman, Montana, has become one of the state’s top destinations for outdoor adventure. While it would be easy to spend an entire week exploring this exciting corner of the state, it’s possible to fit a good bit of adventure into one action-packed day. The fact it gets light around 5 a.m. and dark around 10 p.m. on summer’s longest days certainly helps. Whether you want a day-long summit hike, a relaxing fly-fishing expedition, or a mix of biking and exploring downtown shops and restaurants, there are plenty of summer activities in Bozeman for everyone. Here are some suggestions to get you started on your adventure in this scenic mountain town.

The first words heard from visitors arriving into the Gallatin Valley are often along the lines of "I want to live here." Those who do choose to make their home in the mountain town of Bozeman understand all too well. Residents are known for their work-hard/play-hard mentality, and odds are high that a big reason why they live here is to enjoy the outdoor experiences, from shredding the slopes in the winter to trail running, mountain biking, and fly fishing once the snow is gone. And after the outdoor adventure, you’ll find plenty of places to relax with a pint and good friends in vibrant downtown Bozeman.

It’s a short jaunt from California to Bozeman, and once you’re here, it’s a quick trip to find adventure in any season. Bridger Bowl ski area is only 17 miles up the road, Yellowstone National Park is a quick hour and a half ride, and the rivers, peaks, and mountain lakes are all within a few minutes drive. You can literally hop on a flight in the morning and head to the mountains in the afternoon.

Nestled in southwest Montana’s outdoor wonderland, Bozeman is the perfect destination for a family vacation. Whether you’re packing along the toddlers for a relaxed resort vacation and the kids’ first ski lessons or looking to spend a few nights under the Montana sky with adult children home from college, experience a vast array of outdoor, cultural, and dining opportunities for the entire family that helps make traveling to Bozeman with your kids a breeze!

When reviews range from Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live” designation to Outside Magazine’s “Outside’s Best Towns 2013,” you know something is going on. What used to be mainly an agricultural hub, Bozeman is now thriving on tourism, technology industries, educational opportunities and great air service. While these things are all fueling the economy of Bozeman, they aren’t the main reasons people are drawn to the area. It’s all about the lifestyle. For outdoor enthusiasts, it doesn’t get much better: skiing, fishing, hiking, climbing, camping and Yellowstone National Park. It’s no wonder people come to play and return to stay.

BOZEMAN, MT (January 10, 2018).  Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) handled 1,199,537 passengers during 2017.  This is up 8.3% compared to 2016 and is the eighth consecutive year of record breaking passenger traffic at BZN.  Annual passenger traffic at BZN has increased by more than 500,000 passengers since 2010 and BZN now accounts for 30% of all airline passengers traveling to and from Montana.  

One of the best things about Bozeman is the town’s proximity to Bridger Bowl and Big Sky Resort. This world-class ski area is only 16 miles from downtown, and is truly in Bozeman’s backyard. If you’re planning to visit Bozeman this winter, you may have some questions about how to get to Bridger Bowl.

If you’re flying in, you’ll be arriving at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). It’s a quick ride from the airport to Bozeman, and there are direct flights from all major cities. Upon arrival, you’ll notice the beautiful mountain scenery, and it only gets better at the resort.

If you’ve got extra time and want to make the most out of your vacation before or after hitting the slopes, renting a car might be the way to go. You’ll enjoy historic downtown Bozeman, with many shops and restaurants within walking distance.

If possible, don't forget to come with a vehicle equipped with all-wheel drive to safely navigate snowy terrain. There are also options for public transportation and ride share programs. No matter how you get to the resort from Bozeman, you’ll be pleased with its accessibility.  

You may think you have a good idea of what to expect when visiting Montana. "It's Montana, aren't they still riding horses to work and school?" "Where is Montana? Isn't it right next to Canada?" Since Montana’s population ranks near the bottom, it's easy to assume that something is missing, and that other destinations like Colorado, Utah and California are a better choice. If visiting Montana is on your bucket list but you're concerned with sacrificing certain comforts you've grown to expect from traveling, you may not have to worry. We're going to cover five myths about visiting Bozeman, Montana, to help you see why it has become such a popular destination, and one of the fastest-growing towns in America per capita.