Montana summers offer incredible outdoor experiences, and if you're looking for the best things to do in Bozeman, MT in summer, you've come to the right place.
From crystal-clear alpine lakes to towering mountain peaks, Bozeman is the perfect base camp for exploring some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or prefer relaxing on a patio with a cold beverage (or both!), these activities showcase why Montana summers are truly special.
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Favorite Things to do in Bozeman, MT in Summer
1. Hike the M Trail for Sunrise or Sunset
The "M" on the mountainside stands for Montana State University, but the views from the top are truly magnificent (see what we did there?). This iconic hike offers panoramic views of the Gallatin Valley that make the burning sensation in your calves totally worth it.
The trail is relatively short but steep (and you can choose between 1.5 to 3-mile loops, ranging in difficulty), making it perfect for a sunrise or sunset adventure. For sunrise, plan to start hiking in the dark with a headlamp.
Sunset hikes are popular with both locals and visitors, so expect company and possibly some impromptu trail friendships. Remember to bring layers since mountain weather changes quickly, along with plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.
Already been to the M and want to try something else? Check out these other great trails to see sunrise or sunset:
- Peet's Hill: Easy, 2.5-mile loop on relatively flat terrain
- Drinking Horse Mountain Trail: Moderate, 2.2-mile loop with some elevation gain
- Triple Tree Trail: Moderate, 5.4-mile loop with some elevation gain
- Sacajawea Peak: Hard, 4.5-mile loop with lots of elevation gain; trailhead is located along a very bumpy dirt road, do not attempt to drive it without a high clearance 4WD/AWD vehicle
2. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Gallatin River
Rafting the Gallatin River is one of the most thrilling things to do in Bozeman, MT in summer, assuming you don't mind getting splashed by water that's been hanging out with glaciers. The river offers everything from gentle family-friendly floats to exciting Class III rapids that will get your adrenaline pumping.
Most guided trips – like those with Montana Whitewater – put in at the Gallatin Gateway area and take out near the town of Gallatin Gateway or further downstream at the Highway 191 bridge, depending on the section you choose. The scenic "House Rock" section is particularly popular for its beautiful canyon views and moderate rapids that are exciting but won't require you to write a will beforehand.
Professional guides know the river well and can tailor the experience to your skill level.
Looking for more water adventures? Here's some other spots you can go whitewater rafting or kayaking in Bozeman.
3. Attend Bozeman's Free Outdoor Concert Series, Music on Main
Every Thursday evening from June through August, downtown Bozeman's Main Street closes to traffic and transforms into an outdoor concert venue in an event called "Music on Main."
Local and regional bands perform on a stage set up right in the street, while food trucks line the area offering everything from burgers to tacos. The atmosphere is family-friendly and welcoming. It's a great way to experience Bozeman's community spirit while enjoying live music under the big Montana sky.
Not in town on Thursday? Not to worry – there's plenty of live music in Bozeman, especially in the summer. Check out these other Bozeman concerts!
4. Relax on a Patio: Grab a Bite and a Beer
Bozeman boasts an impressive craft beer scene for a city of its size. Popular breweries like MAP Brewing and Bridger Brewing feature patios where you can sample local brews while soaking in the mountain scenery.
Many breweries also serve excellent food, making them perfect spots for a casual dinner where you can recover from your outdoor adventures.
Not into breweries? No problem! Here are some other places with great patios in Bozeman:
- Sky Shed: A rooftop bar with epic views, food, and drinks located downtown
- Bodhi Farms: A working farm serving farm-to-table eats located in the southern part of Bozeman; reservations recommended.
- Gallatin River Lodge: A patio overlooking a pond west of Jackrabbit Lane
- Sidewall Pizza Company: A casual pizza spot located downtown
- Sidewinders American Grill: A relaxed spot serving American food on an upstairs patio
5. Go Fly Fishing on the Gallatin River
Fly fishing the Gallatin River is a popular activity for anglers of all skill levels, from expert casters to people who think "fly fishing" means swatting at bugs.
The river flows right through the heart of the Gallatin Valley, offering excellent access points and healthy populations of rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. Popular fishing spots include the stretch near the Gallatin Gateway Inn and the areas around Storm Castle Creek. The river can be wade-fished in many sections, though some areas are better accessed by floating.
If you're new to fly fishing, consider hiring a local guide (Fins and Feathers, Montana Angler Fly Fishing, and Montana Angling Company are all great) who can teach you proper technique. The combination of beautiful scenery and the meditative rhythm of casting makes this a perfect way to spend a peaceful summer day, whether the fish cooperate or not.
Already tried the Gallatin River and looking for something new? Check out these other spots to go fly fishing in Bozeman or this three-day fly fishing itinerary.
6. Float the Madison River
Floating the Madison River offers a more relaxed water experience and ranks high among family-friendly things to do in Bozeman, MT in summer. The best time to float is from mid-June through August; any later and the water can become too shallow, and any earlier, the river is cold and fast.
The most popular floating section begins at the Warm Springs Access with takeout at Black’s Ford, a roughly 8-mile stretch that takes about 3-4 hours depending on water levels and how often you stop to admire the scenery. You can also put in at McAtee Bridge for a shorter float to Ennis Bridge.
The Madison is perfect for inner tubing, though many people also use rafts or drift boats. The water moves at a gentle pace, making it ideal for families with children or anyone looking for a leisurely day on the river.
Several local outfitters, like Madison River Tubing and Montana Whitewater, rent tubes and provide shuttle services if you'd prefer to do your own river trip. If you've never floated a river before or prefer a more hands-on experience, they also offer guided trips.
7. Take Country Swing Dancing Lessons
If you're looking for a unique cultural experience, go country swing dancing at The Westerner or The Jump! Every Wednesday night, these local favorites transform into lively dance halls.
The Jump offers line dancing along with beginner and intermediate country swing dancing lessons, while The Westerner only offers country swing dancing lessons. Both venues host open dancing to live music for a couple hours after lessons. Even if you've never gone line dancing or swing dancing before, the friendly crowd and patient instructors make it easy to jump in and have fun.
Although Wednesdays are the only nights they offer lessons, both venues usually have live music on Friday and Saturday nights. If you're only in town for the weekend, Bourbon offers line dancing lessons on Thursday and Saturday nights.
These activities are less family-friendly, but perfect for bachelorette parties or date nights!
8. See the Valley View Rodeo
Nothing says "Welcome to Montana" quite like watching someone try to stay on a bucking bronco for eight seconds. Every Thursday evening from June through August, the Valley View Rodeo brings authentic cowboy culture to life, complete with all the drama, dust, and cheering crowds you'd expect.
Even if you can't tell a bull from a steer, the energy is infectious. Plus, where else can you eat a corndog while watching someone get thrown around by a thousand-pound animal and call it entertainment? It's uniquely American and absolutely worth the experience.
Not in town on Thursday? Check out these other rodeos near Bozeman!
9. Camp at Hyalite Reservoir
Camping here is like having nature's own infinity pool in your backyard. The water is more than fine (but cold), the hiking trails are abundant, and the stargazing is spectacular.
Just remember to hang your food properly unless you want to share your s'mores with the local wildlife. And yes, those are real bear warnings, not just suggestions for dramatic effect.
You can do almost any outdoor activity imaginable at Hyalite in the summer – here are some of the most popular:
- Hiking to Palisade Falls (1.1 miles, easy) or Grotto Falls (2.4 miles, also easy), both short and relatively flat trails
- Hiking or mountain biking to Heather and Emerald Lakes (10 miles, hard), a long hike with 2,500 feet in elevation gain
- Paddle boarding, swimming, kayaking, or fishing on the reservoir
- Bouldering at Practice Rock
- Looking for wildflowers on History Rock Trail
10. Go Mountain Biking in the Bangtail Mountains
The Bangtail Divide Trail System is popular for a reason – you'll find numerous well-maintained singletrack trails suitable for various skill levels, from "I can handle this" to "why did I think this was a good idea?"
Popular mountain biking routes include:
- Grassy Mountain: 16-mile loop, moderate to steep singletrack with a long downhill section
- The Bangtail Divide: 22.3 mile point-to-point (shuttle recommended) ride with some tight switchbacks, but otherwise it's relatively chill
The high elevation in the Bangtails means cooler temperatures and stunning alpine scenery, making it perfect for summer riding when you need a break from the valley heat.
Montana summers are short but spectacular, making it essential to make the most of your time here. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or spending the entire season, these things to do in Bozeman, MT in summer will (hopefully) help you understand why so many people fall in love with this incredible place.
If you enjoyed this blog, take a look at some of our other related articles:
- A Guide to In-Town Exploration in Bozeman
- Bozeman Art Festivals, Markets, and Walks: Your Summer 2025 Guide
- The Best Wildflower Hikes Around Bozeman, Montana
- 7 Montana Guest Ranches for a One-of-a-Kind Vacation
- 9 Places to Go Horseback Riding in Bozeman
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.