Everyone knows Bozeman is a great place to visit if you are a skier or snowboarder. For those of you who don't do either of these but still want to experience the mountains in the winter, or just need to give your legs a break, snowshoeing is a great alternative. We'd even say snowshoeing is underrated. Snowshoeing is a relaxing way to get get some exercise and have some fun in the mountains during the winter. Here's a quick guide that will help you find places to rent snowshoes and where to go based on how active you want to get.
Renting Snowshoes
If you have flown into town or don't own snowshoes, you can easily rent some. Snowshoe sizes are based on your weight and typically come in four sizes; youth, 21", 25" and 30". They will vary model to model based on the materials used and the binding configuration. We recommend wearing a durable pair of winter boots that will keep your feet warm and dry. Getting cold feet isn't fun, especially if they are wet. Prices usually range from $7/day -$15/day, and you will find rentals at the following shops:
Where To Go Snowshoeing
Now that you've got a spot to rent snowshoes, you just need a trail. Snowshoeing trails can range from a relaxing stroll around Bridger Creek Golf Course to a full day adventure to Lava Lake. Bozeman is surrounded by trails, and during the winter most are accessible for snowshoeing. Here are a few of our favorites to test out your snowshoeing legs.
-
Bridger Creek Golf Course - Ability Level: Easy
- Location: In Town
-
Moser Creek Trail
- Ability Level: Moderate
- Location: Hyalite Canyon
-
Bracket Creek Trail
- Ability Level: Moderate
- Location: Bridger Canyon, past Bridger Bowl Ski Area
-
Hyalite Reservoir
- Ability Level: Easy
- Location: Hyalite Recreation Area
-
Lava Lake
- Ability Level: Difficult
- Location: Gallatin Canyon
-
Sourdough Trail
- Ability Level: Easy
- Location: Gallatin Mountains
-
Grotto Falls
- Ability Level: Easy
- Location: Hyalite Recreation Area
-
History Rock
- Ability Level: Moderate
- Location: Hyalite Canyon
Tips & Advice
Snowshoeing isn't considered a high-intensity sport, but anytime you play in the mountains you should prepare for anything. Dress appropriately so you will stay warm and dry. Wear waterproof pants or gaiters to keep the snow out of your boots and wear insulated waterproof gloves or mittens to keep your hands warm. We recommend dressing in layers so if you get too hot, you can peel a layer off. It might be a good idea to bring a backpack to carry water or even lunch. Snowshoeing into the backcountry and having a picnic lunch creates a perfect break to rest and enjoy the mountains. If you are snowshoeing on a trail that has more challenging terrain it may be a good idea to bring trekking or ski poles to help you keep your balance. And, if you are heading into the mountains, always go with a partner.
Bozeman is an outdoor paradise with a lot of actives to experience and lot of great places to explore. We encourage you to try something new when you are in town, like snowshoeing. We promise you will enjoy yourself. We look forward to seeing you out on the trail.
If you enjoyed this blog, take a look at some of our other related articles:
- Ranking the 14 Best Hot Springs in Montana
- Top 10 Things To Do in Yellowstone
- Bozeman Breweries: Enjoying The Best Beer Around Town
In our never-ending quest to keep up with all things new in Bozeman, we have been producing content for years and can't possibly update every blog when new businesses open or existing businesses close. Please reference the publish date and do your own due diligence when making plans.