Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Painted Hills loop from Bozeman
Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Painted Hills loop from Bozeman
3.3
(2)
29
riders
Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Painted Hills loop from Bozeman
02:02
23.6km
270m
Cycling
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 6.18 km for 94 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
383 m
Main Street
Highlight (Segment) • Settlement
Tip by
2.43 km
Pete's Hill Lookout, Burke Park
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
8.03 km
Highland Glen Nature Preserve
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
8.08 km
Highland Glen Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
12.7 km
Painted Hills
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
17.8 km
Highland Glen Nature Preserve
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
23.6 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
12.1 km
4.98 km
2.86 km
1.39 km
1.31 km
769 m
222 m
Surfaces
15.0 km
4.67 km
3.56 km
359 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Sunday 5 July
29°C
12°C
68 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for an accessible and scenic touring cycling route right from Bozeman, the Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Painted Hills loop is a fantastic choice. This moderate 14.7-mile (23.6 km) ride, with 873 feet (266 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 1 minute to complete. It's perfect for cyclists who want a rewarding natural escape without venturing far from the city, offering a smooth, enjoyable experience for most skill levels.
What to expect on Highland Glen Nature Preserve – Painted Hills loop from Bozeman
This loop offers a delightful journey through varied landscapes. You'll start in Highland Glen, where smooth, well-maintained singletrack winds through lush, wildflower-filled meadows and cultivated fields, providing stunning views of Mount Ellis, the Bridgers, and Hyalite. As you transition to the Painted Hills trail, the terrain becomes more rolling, guiding you through agricultural areas and even some residential sections. While there are gradual climbs, recent expansions, including the Sandhill Trail, have replaced steeper switchbacks with more gentle ascents, making the ride consistently pleasant. Keep an eye out for cattle in the preserve and be prepared for a few bike rollovers at livestock gates.
Planning your visit
This trail system is incredibly convenient, located within Bozeman's city limits and easily accessible from downtown. Parking is generally available, but it's always wise to arrive earlier on busy days. The trails are multi-use, so you'll share them with hikers and runners; being mindful of others ensures a good experience for everyone. Spring and fall can bring muddy conditions, and winter might introduce ice, so check current trail conditions before you head out. This route is part of the larger "Main Street to the Mountains" system, offering extensive connectivity for longer rides if you wish to explore further.
Trail details
- Distance: 14.7 miles (23.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 873 feet (266 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 1 minutes
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