Bozeman may be the most interesting city in Montana. Sitting in the southwest part of the state, Bozeman is a lesson in opposites.
While part of the city is an ecological-minded college town with Hollywood stars, yoga studios, hip restaurants, coffee bars, and breweries, the other half of the city is farmers, ranchers, and quiet people looking for a simpler way of life.
Bozeman as a town was founded around 1863 by John Bozeman as a resting point along what is now known as the Bozeman Trail. The trail was established to provide easy passage from the Oregon Trail through Wyoming and Montana to the west coast, for gold miners and settlers.
Today, Bozeman is a vibrant community and one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. Home to Montana State University, the city boasts both booming tech and tourism industries. Many flocks to the town thanks to plenty of outdoor attractions, recreational activities, and an art and cultural scene that can’t be beaten.
In this article, we will take a look at the many activities in and around the Bozeman area so you can plan for the best visit possible.
Your Guide to Bozeman, Montana
The Best Hotels In Bozeman
There are a lot of really interesting things to see and do in Bozeman. So many, that we had to pick just a few of our favorites, or this list would go on and on. Taking a walk down Main Street in downtown Bozeman is a great way to experience both the hip “young” culture and the taste of the old west that makes this community so interesting. Main street is lined with fun old buildings that make you feel like you’ve entered another place and time. Along the street, you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Montana, great boutique shops, and many community events that bring folks from all around the Bozeman area. For the lucky, and observant, you may even catch a glimpse of one of the many Hollywood actors that call the Bozeman area home. If you want to learn a lot about the natural history of the Rocky Mountains, or if you just want to see one of the best collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, the Museum of the Rockies is a sight you cannot miss. The museum is a collaboration with Montana State University and the Smithsonian Institute. While you’ll enjoy the exhibits, behind the scenes this museum is working hard on research and features some of the most up-to-date information on the evolution of Yellowstone County and Yellowstone National Park. We think this is one of the most unique museums anywhere in the United States, and it’s a great nod to the tech industry that is the base of the Bozeman economy. The American Computer and Robotics Museum details the rise of technology from the clay tablet to today’s advancements in artificial intelligence and consciousness. The city may seem like a strange place to find such a museum, but this is a spot you shouldn’t miss. The displays are really amazing and there are some of the most important technological artifacts in the world housed here. Don’t miss the Gutenberg Press, the Alan Turing papers or a Steve Wozniak signed Apple 1 computer.Oh, and did we mention that admission to the museum is free? One of the most majestic and awe-inspiring animals in North America is the Grizzly Bear. This predator calls Montana home, but most of us would rather skip the interaction with this giant animal and view it from a distance. The Montana Grizzly Encounter gives visitors to Bozeman the opportunity to get a little closer to these amazing animals, in a safe and controlled environment. Most of the bears that live in this rescue and bear sanctuary came from captivity and were rescued from unsuitable living conditions. The Montana Grizzly Encounter gives grizzly bears the chance to live a more normal life in their natural environment, without releasing them back into the wild. Bozeman is considered the north and west gateway to Yellowstone National Park, so it makes sense that you should add this amazing place to your itinerary. In Yellowstone, you’ll find plenty of things to see including the world-famous geysers and hot springs. Lots of people come to Yellowstone to view the wildlife and to enjoy hiking and camping. Yellowstone is an easy day trip from Bozeman and for many people a once in a lifetime place to visit. Just like the community, Bozeman has diverse options for recreation. And, the activities aren’t just summertime activities. The city’s proximity to mountains, rivers, national forests, local parks, and recreation facilities allows visitors to enjoy great recreational opportunities all year round. One of the most popular winter sports in the Bozeman area is skiing or snowboarding. You’ll find two great downhill ski areas nearby – Big Sky Resort and Bridger Bowl Ski Area. Big Sky Resort offers visitors a more traditional “resort” skiing experience, while Bridger Bowl is a smaller ski area with basic amenities. If you’re not up for downhill skiing or snowboarding, Check out the Crosscut Mountain Center and Bohart Ranch. This spot has plenty of trails for Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, and skate skiing. Never tried Nordic skiing before? Crosscut Mountain Center has great instructors that can show you the ropes. There are a variety of water sports opportunities in the Bozeman area. The Gallatin River is a favorite spot for springtime white water rafting. If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, locals enjoy kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding on the Madison River through Bear Trap Canyon. If you don’t have your own gear, no need to worry, there are a number of outfitters in town that can set you up with tubes, paddleboards, or even kayaks. If you don’t want to drive, you can even pick up a free shuttle to Bear Trap Canyon from downtown Bozeman. The Gallatin River is another one of Montana’s amazing fly-fishing streams. For avid fly-fishers, the Gallatin near Bozeman is a dream come true. Parts of the movie “A River Runs Through It” was filmed near Bozeman, so for those familiar with the film many of the best fishing spots may seem familiar. Favorite spots for wade fishing include the canyon section between Big Sky and Four Corners. There are some great fly shops in Bozeman that can help you pick the right flies or hire a guide to take you to the best spots. There are some pretty amazing spots around Bozeman for rock climbing, ice climbing, and mountaineering. Locals will tell you that the best spot for ice climbing is in Hyalite Canyon, while those looking to scale rock walls will enjoy Gallatin Canyon. If you’re new to these activities, there are a number of local businesses that will help you gear up and show you the ropes. Of course, hiking is the most accessible activity in the Bozeman area, and it doesn’t require any special gear. One of the most popular hikes is the M-Trail. You’ll be hard-pressed to miss the giant “M” on the side of the mountain above Bozeman. It’s not just a stamp of pride for Montana State University students, it’s also a great place to hike to. For more scenic hikes, head to Hyalite Canyon where you’ll find a number of great hiking trails. You’ll also find Hyalite Challenge, an accessible recreation area with wide boardwalks, fishing piers and other amenities that make enjoying the area easy for those with physical challenges. Other favorite hikes in the area include Palisade Falls and Drinking Horses Mountain, both of which offer great views and easy hikes that are family-friendly. Bozeman has general, day-to-day living costs much higher than the national average. On top of that, Bozeman housing prices are not only high for Montana, but they also consistently rank among the most expensive in America! The Springhill and Legends neighborhoods are considered among the most exclusive and expensive in Bozeman, while on the other end of the spectrum comparatively is the Baxter Meadows area. Looking at crime rates, it’s possible to see that Bozeman does quite well both locally and nationally at 33 on the crime index (with the best being 100). This means some form of crime affects three per thousand people in the town every year. With the total number of annual crimes recorded being under 1,000, the main problem seems to be property crime at close to 800. The number of crimes considered violent was somewhat lower and recorded at 160, so in al Bozeman is not too much of a dangerous place. Aside from the surrounding Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is largely known as something of a college town, mainly due to its prominent numbers of student-aged residents. This is in turn reflected in the local Bozeman lifestyle and culture, which comprises a large proportion of artists and other creative types. A lot of the major events, for instance, are closely linked to the academic calendar, and the Museum of the Rockies is a major attraction in the area, as are the Gallatin History Museum and the local Hot Springs. Outdoor recreation is plentiful, especially on the local M Trail and the nearby Bridger Bowl Ski Area as well as in the surrounding regions of the Custer-Gallatin National Forest. When you visit Bozeman, you’ll want to make sure you have a great place to recover after a day of activities. There are plenty of lodging options in the area, including vacation homes, local hotels, chain hotels, and bed and breakfasts. Bozeman, like all other cities, has distinct seasons for tourism and different popular activities depending on the time of year. Because Montana’s seasons are so distinct – hot, humid summers bookended by long, frozen winters – seasonality can certainly impact your travel plans. If you’re unsure what’s the best time of year to visit Bozeman, here’s a brief rundown of the various tourist seasons, monthly weather, and a calendar of major events. Bozeman has somewhat curious travel seasons, but you’ll typically find hotel rooms, cabins, and resorts at their lowest occupancies and prices in November, and from January through March. In town, hotels are generally open year-round, but properties around Bozeman are only open in the winter (like ski resorts that don’t offer summer activities) while others close completely from the first snowfall until the spring thaw. Summer offers the best weather for a sightseeing stroll, but the crowds in July might deter you somewhat. Thankfully the end of June and mush of August have similar weather with markedly fewer tourists. Beginning the day after Thanksgiving with Black Friday, the holiday season is the best time for shopping in Montana. Not only will you find some of the best sales of the year at the big, national chains, but local, independent retailers tend to be very active in December. In addition, you’ll find special holiday-themed markets and pop-ups that specialize in local, handmade, and artisan goods. Summer hosts the most festivals and events of the year: the warm weather makes it much more comfortable to hold events outdoors, and schools aren’t in session so more folks can attend. Offerings range from live music to rodeos, to art fairs, to farmer’s markets. There’s generally something unique to do every weekend, often for free. Bozeman has somewhat curious travel seasons. While they, like many other locales, have a high season in the summer, they also have a brief resort season that draws thousands of tourists. These are interspersed with low and shoulder seasons. The high season is typically the summer – mainly July and August – though Bozeman has a sliver of a resort season during the holidays, from Thanksgiving to the very beginning of January. These are the times of the year when flights and accommodation will be the most expensive and have the fewest vacancies for last-minute travelers. A lot of this winter tourism is because of Bozeman’s prime position near both an international airport and one of the only entrances to Yellowstone that’s open year-round. Bozeman is the premier jumping-off point for Christmas and New Year trips to Yellowstone. Just beyond the entrance at Gardiner are Yellowstone’s winter lodges, but keep in mind that holiday reservations are made up to a year in advance. The low season is typically November and January through April. These are the months with the least tourists and lowest prices, though vacancies can seem high if you’re visiting a nearby ski resort. In general, in-town visits are easy to plan last minute this time of year. The shoulder season is May, June, September, and October. These are the months when you’ll find the best balance of available rooms at modest prices and the most comfortable weather. June in particular is legendary for having long, sunny days without the stiff competition for accommodation you’ll find in July. Average High: 35º | Average Low: 14º January in Bozeman is typically snowy and cold. The fluctuating temperature can cause snow accumulation to melt during the day and refreeze at night, so you’ll have to take extra care to avoid slick, icy roads. If you don’t have much experience driving on black ice, be sure to take extra precautions, especially at night. You’ll need to be sure to pack a whole complement of winter gear: parka, gloves, thick socks, a hat, and boots if you want to ensure your comfort. Average High: 38º | Average Low: 17º While the snowpack in town is beginning to subside somewhat, there’s still a significant chance to find snow on the ground in Bozeman in February. While major interstates and in-town roads will be plowed, be careful on any backcountry or access roads, as they could be snowy, icy, or closed. Adequate gear for cold weather is still required this time of year, even if you don’t plan on spending that much time outside. Average High: 47º | Average Low: 24º It’s not unusual to see snow in Bozeman in March, but it’s also common to see rain. This can be a soggy time of year in the city, though nearby ski areas will still have plenty of snow. Rain gear and waterproof boots or shoes will keep you a lot more comfortable during your trip. Overnight temperatures can still get well below freezing, so gear for wintery weather is still more than appropriate. Average High: 56º | Average Low: 30º In April, precipitation increases somewhat, with a mix of rainy days and snowy nights. Though large accumulations of snow are rare this time of year, roads can still be quite icy, especially first thing in the morning having frozen overnight. Rain gear and proper winter layers are still recommended in April in Bozeman, though you may find yourself occasionally leaving the accouterments – like a hat, gloves, and a scarf – back at the hotel room, especially toward the end of the month. Average High: 65º | Average Low: 38º The last snow flurries of the year usually occur in May, leaving most of the month completely free of snow in Bozeman. However, this is the rainiest month of the year, so be sure to be prepared with waterproof rain gear and footwear. Average High: 73º | Average Low: 44º The spring rains begin to slow, and the temperature gets considerably warmer in June. This is the first month where you might consider wearing a pair of shorts or a sundress, just be sure to bring a coat if you’ll be out past nightfall. Average High: 83º | Average Low: 50º Largely considered the best month of the year for weather in Bozeman, July temperatures range between balmy and outright hot, with very little rain and few days with overcast skies. This is the time for spending time outdoors and wild swimming. Nights can still be chilly, so be sure to bring a jacket. While driving conditions are generally ideal, you may find the occasional road that’s muddy from rainwater. Average High: 82º | Average Low: 48º Still well within the high season, August weather is some of the best, with the least rain of the whole year. Long, hot days can still be followed by somewhat chilly nights, so be sure to pack appropriate clothing if you’ll be out in the evening. Driving conditions are ideal in August, and all roads are open barring those closed for maintenance or construction. Average High: 72º | Average Low: 40º The fall chill starts to set in around the middle of September, but days are generally still balmy and sunny. Though it may not be ideal for swimming, there are still those who don’t mind taking a dip in the lake despite the colder weather. Nights, in particular toward the end of the month, can get downright cold, so be prepared with a coat. Average High: 58º | Average Low: 32º In October you’ll see the full effects of Fall in Bozeman, with blustery winds and the occasional snow flurry. Though it’s unlikely to see snow accumulate in the city this time of year if you’re traveling over a nearby pass you may encounter a legitimate snowfall. While you might fare okay during the day with a jacket and a couple of layers, you will likely need a proper coat in the evenings. Average High: 43º | Average Low: 21º Though not yet technically winter, November in Bozeman can feel decidedly wintery. This is when you’ll see the first few snowfalls in town, and many businesses revert to their winter hours. Nights can get well below freezing which demands a full complement of winter clothing. Driving around Bozeman is generally fine on major streets and the Interstate, though some nearby roads may already be closed for the season. Average High: 33º | Average Low: 12º Generally the coldest month of the year, you’ll have to make considerable preparations to visit Bozeman in December. Roads can be slick and icy when left unsalted, so snow tires can be helpful, especially during the day. If you plan on spending any considerable amount of time outside, you’ll be the most comfortable with plenty of layers and all the winter gear – including a hat, gloves, and a scarf to keep you toasty. 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Bozeman Main Attractions
Downtown Bozeman
Museum of the Rockies
American Computer and Robotics Museum
Montana Grizzle Encounter
Yellowstone National Park
Recreation Activities in Bozeman
Skiing/Snowboarding
Water Sports
Fly Fishing
Rock Climbing
Hiking
What Is The Cost of Living in Bozeman?
Is Bozeman Safe?
What is Bozeman Known For?
Accommodations
Best Time to Visit Bozeman
Best Time to Book a Hotel in Bozeman
Best Time for Sightseeing in Bozeman
Best Time for Shopping in Bozeman
Best Time for Festivals & Events in Bozeman
Bozeman Travel Seasons
Bozeman Weather by Month
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Events and Festivals
Summer
Fall
Winter
Spring
Activities Near Bozeman
Recreation Activities
National Parks and Forests
State Parks
City and County Parks
Museums
Performing Arts
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