The best traffic-free bike rides in Gallatin County

This touring cycling route offers a unique blend of Bozeman's urban charm and natural landscapes, transitioning from the tree-lined Gallagator Trail with its art installations and views of the Bridger Mountains to the expansive wildflower meadows and gullies of Highland Glen Nature Preserve. You'll experience a mix of crushed stone paths and natural surface singletrack, with spectacular vistas of Mount Ellis as you ride. It's a diverse experience for cyclists looking for varied terrain.

Starting conveniently from Bobcat Stadium, this 9.1-mile (14.6 km) loop with 345 feet (105 metres) of elevation gain is rated easy and takes about 59 minutes to complete. Parking is readily available at locations like the Bozeman Public Library for the Gallagator or the Softball Complex for Highland Glen. Be aware that the natural surface trails in Highland Glen can be muddy after rain, so plan your visit accordingly for the best experience.

What makes this loop truly stand out is its seamless connectivity, allowing you to quickly shift from city amenities to a wilder natural setting. Both the Gallagator Trail and Highland Glen Nature Preserve are popular multi-use community assets, maintained by the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, offering a historical backdrop along the old rail line and a natural respite from the bustling city core. It's an excellent choice for beginner touring cycling in Bozeman, Montana, especially if you're comfortable with mixed surfaces.

Embark on a touring cycling journey that blends Bozeman's stunning mountain vistas with peaceful riverside paths on the Triple Tree Trail – Sourdough Trail Grafs Park loop. This moderate 13.6-mile (21.9 km) route, with 852 feet (260 metres) of elevation gain, offers a dynamic ride that typically takes around 1 hour and 27 minutes. You'll climb through sunny hillsides and shady glens on the Triple Tree Trail, reaching viewpoints with sweeping views of the Gallatin Valley and the Bridger Mountain Range, before transitioning to the more relaxed gravel path of the Sourdough Trail, which meanders through open fields and tree-shaded sections along Spring Creek.

To tackle this varied terrain, starting from the Highland Glen Trailhead, ensure your touring bike is capable of handling both natural surface singletrack and gravel. The Triple Tree Trail's steep grades and switchbacks present a good challenge, while the Sourdough Trail offers smoother riding. Given the popularity of the Triple Tree Trail, planning your visit for off-peak times might enhance your experience, though specific parking constraints at Highland Glen Trailhead are not typically an issue.

This loop is a fantastic way to experience Bozeman's diverse outdoor offerings, connecting a local favorite known for its breathtaking views and community-supported improvements with the tranquil green spaces around Grafs Park. The area is also home to wildlife, including deer and occasionally moose, adding to its natural appeal. It's a testament to community efforts that ensure public access and enjoyment of these beautiful trails.

The Triple Tree Trail – Triple Tree summit loop offers a fantastic natural surface singletrack experience just outside Bozeman, perfect for gravel or mountain bikers. You'll pedal through grassy fields, cross Limestone Creek several times, and wind through shady forests and open meadows. The highlight is undoubtedly the summit, where strategically placed benches invite you to soak in sweeping panoramic views of the entire Gallatin Valley and the distant Bridger Mountain Range.

This moderate 11.8-mile (19.0 km) route involves a steady climb of 1087 feet (331 metres), taking about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete. Parking is convenient near Bobcat Stadium, making it an accessible option for a quick escape. While open year-round, the trail is best enjoyed from late spring through mid-fall to avoid muddy or icy conditions, and remember to carry bear spray due to local wildlife.

Part of the "Main Street to the Mountains" system, this trail is a local favorite for its accessibility and diverse scenery, making it a great way to experience the Montana landscape without venturing too far from town. It's a popular spot, so expect to share the path with hikers and runners, but the views from the Triple Tree summit are well worth the effort.