The best cycling routes in the Bridger Range

The Bridger Range offers a diverse network of over 40 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 17 easy, 17 moderate, and 6 difficult options available for exploration.

The Bridger Range features a mix of terrain, from paved roads to gravel and dirt passes. You'll encounter dramatic escarpments, rounded peaks, and a series of ridges and valleys. Routes often provide scenic views of mountains, rivers, and meadows. Some routes, like the Kelly Canyon Road and Bridger Canyon loop, are mostly paved, while others, such as Flathead Pass, offer a more rugged gravel experience.

Yes, the Bridger Range has several easy routes suitable for beginners and families. For instance, the Highland Glen Nature Preserve loop from Museum of the Rockies is an easy 9.9 km (6.1 miles) route. Another accessible option is the Highland Glen Nature Preserve loop from Eastedge Meadows, which is 7.9 km (4.9 miles) long.

While cycling, you can enjoy views of prominent peaks like Sacagawea Peak (9,596 feet) and Baldy Mountain (9,183 feet). The region is also home to Fairy Lake, a high-elevation lake. Many routes traverse scenic areas like Bridger Canyon and Kelly Canyon Road, offering expansive mountain and valley vistas.

Spring, summer, and fall are ideal for touring cycling in the Bridger Range. These seasons offer pleasant weather conditions for exploring the diverse landscapes, from paved roads to gravel passes. The area is known for its rich biodiversity and abundant wildflowers, particularly in spring and early summer.

Yes, many routes in the Bridger Range are designed as loops. A popular moderate option is the Kelly Canyon Road and Bridger Canyon loop, which is 26.9 km (16.7 miles). Another well-liked loop is the Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Triple Tree Trail loop from Bozeman, covering 25.4 km (15.7 miles).

The touring cycling routes in the Bridger Range are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 5 reviews. Over 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic views of mountains, rivers, and meadows, as well as the low-traffic roads.

Yes, the Bridger Range, encompassed by the Gallatin National Forest, supports a variety of wildlife. Cycling on low-traffic roads and multi-use trails, especially during quieter times, can increase your chances of spotting local fauna. The region's diverse ecosystems provide habitats for numerous species.

Many touring cycling routes in the Bridger Range have accessible starting points with parking. For example, the Drinking Horse Trailhead is a known access point. Routes often start near nature preserves or parks, which typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details for designated parking areas.

For those seeking a challenge, the Bridger Range offers routes with significant climbs. The Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Painted Hills loop from Bozeman, for example, includes over 270 meters (885 feet) of elevation gain. Additionally, the region features gravel/dirt passes like Flathead Pass, which can include steep, rutted sections requiring good fitness and potentially hike-a-bike for standard gravel bikes.

Yes, many Forest Service trails in the Bridger Range are multi-use and suitable for touring cycling, particularly for those with mountain or gravel bikes. Trails like Truman Gulch and the Bangtail Divide Trail are popular among cyclists, offering rolling terrain, beautiful wildflower meadows, and stunning views.

For a longer touring cycling adventure, consider routes that combine several sections or explore further into the range. While not explicitly listed in the provided routes, the Bridger Canyon Century is a classic road ride offering full 105-mile paved loops or shorter 87-mile options, winding through charming towns and providing extensive views. Within the komoot routes, the Story Mill Nature Reserve – Snowfill Recreation Area loop from Bozeman is a moderate 23.3 km (14.5 miles) option.