Best Bozeman Hikes Under 5 Miles

Best Bozeman Hikes Under 5 Miles

Bozeman and its surrounding areas are full of scenic trails that are just the right length for a quick outing. Here’s a curated list of top hikes under 5 miles, ranging from gentle strolls to rewarding short climbs.

1. The M Trail
   Distance: About 1.7 to 3 miles round trip, depending on the route
   Why Go: The iconic “M” on Bridger Ridge makes this a local classic, visible from all over town. You can choose the steep, direct route or a gentler, winding path. Both lead to sweeping views of the Gallatin Valley.
   Trail Vibe: Popular, scenic, and family-friendly.

2. Drinking Horse Mountain Trail
   Distance: About 2.2 to 2.5 miles round trip
   Why Go: A quick hike near town with a picnic table and incredible views at the top. Great for families, short time frames, or runners.

3. Palisade Falls
   Distance: About 1.1 to 1.2 miles round trip
   Why Go: An easy, paved trail leading to an 80-foot waterfall. This is a top choice for families and anyone looking for an accessible but beautiful hike.

4. Ousel Falls
   Distance: About 1.7 miles round trip
   Why Go: A tranquil forest walk in Big Sky that ends at a gorgeous waterfall. Expect serene ambiance and great photo opportunities.

5. Grotto Falls
   Distance: About 2.4 miles round trip
   Why Go: A peaceful forest trail that takes you to cascading falls. If you keep going, you can discover more hidden gems like Arch Falls.

6. Peets Hill (Burke Park)
   Distance: About 1 mile loop
   Why Go: An accessible neighborhood hike with panoramic views of downtown Bozeman. Great for quick walks, sunset views, or walking dogs.

7. Sourdough Canyon / Bozeman Creek Trail
   Distance: Variable, but many outings under 5 miles
   Why Go: A gentle, scenic trail along Bozeman Creek. Perfect for families, wildlife watching, and casual hiking.

8. Cherry River Fishing Access
   Distance: A short, flat loop well under 5 miles
   Why Go: Quiet and scenic, this is ideal for a peaceful nature break along the East Gallatin River.

9. Glen Lake Rotary Park (Bozeman Beach)
   Distance: Easy loop around the lake, less than 2 miles
   Why Go: A relaxed lakeside walk with picnic and play areas. Perfect for families and casual explorers.

Quick Comparison at a Glance

The M Trail: 1.7–3 miles, iconic views, flexible routes
Drinking Horse Mountain: 2.2–2.5 miles, short climb with rewarding valley views
Palisade Falls: 1.1–1.2 miles, paved, waterfall, family-friendly
Ousel Falls: 1.7 miles, forest walk to waterfall, peaceful
Grotto Falls: 2.4 miles, forest trail with waterfall cascades
Peets Hill/Burke Park: 1 mile, urban hike, scenic views, dog-friendly
Sourdough Canyon Trail: varies under 5, gentle creek-side hike, customizable
Cherry River Fishing Access: short loop, riverside, tranquil
Glen Lake Rotary Park: less than 2 miles, lakeside walk with recreational amenities

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