We all know there’s no hike quite like a Montana hike. Whether you want to get lost in the forest, scale a mountain, have a picnic by a waterfall, or take in sweeping canyon views, you’ll find it in the Treasure State. And, while many of our hiking trails are well known to the public, we still have plenty of hidden gems.
If you live in (or near) Gallatin County, give Drinking Horse Mountain a try the next time you’re in the mood to explore. This sweeping loop trail will provide you with some seriously stunning views.
You’ll find the Drinking Horse Mountain trailhead near Bozeman, at the mouth of Bridger Canyon.
Melanie Ortiz / alltrails.com Drinking Horse Mountain is the prominent hill across from the popular “M” trail.
The hike itself is just over two miles in length, and it’s a fairly easy loop.
Boyd Lusarreta / alltrails.com You’ll start by walking alongside the Fish Technology Center to a bridge over Bridger Creek, followed by the official trail arch.
Next, you’ll take a left at the trail junction and head up toward the summit.
Jody Morehouse / alltrails.com Veering left takes you up a steeper climb with multiple switchbacks, but it’s well worth it. Take your time and rest if you get tired.
As you near the top, you’ll begin to enjoy breathtaking views of Bridger Canyon and the surrounding Story Hills…
Ginger Jensen / alltrails.com
…and you can take it all in from one of the benches you’ll see along the way.
Carmen Wu / alltrails.com The Gallatin Valley will loom before you, looking absolutely gorgeous.
While this hike isn’t well-known to those who don’t live in the Bozeman area, it’s definitely a popular local trail.
Boyd Lusarreta / alltrails.com To avoid the crowds, try going early in the morning. As you can see, it’s an amazing time of day.
While you might not be able to access the trail in the dead of winter, it does stay open all year long (as long as the weather cooperates).
Nolan Conrad / alltrails.com Most prefer to hike it in the summertime, but if the trail isn’t packed with snow, it’s gorgeous in the late fall (Montana winters start early).
The Drinking Horse Mountain trail is a fantastic day hike for those who want a great workout, but also want to be home in time for dinner.
Cameron Erickson / alltrails.com You’ll have no problem completing your hike in an hour or two.
Have you ever hiked Drinking Horse Mountain? Share your experience in the comments!
Melanie Ortiz / alltrails.com
Drinking Horse Mountain is the prominent hill across from the popular “M” trail.
Boyd Lusarreta / alltrails.com
You’ll start by walking alongside the Fish Technology Center to a bridge over Bridger Creek, followed by the official trail arch.
Jody Morehouse / alltrails.com
Veering left takes you up a steeper climb with multiple switchbacks, but it’s well worth it. Take your time and rest if you get tired.
Ginger Jensen / alltrails.com
Carmen Wu / alltrails.com
The Gallatin Valley will loom before you, looking absolutely gorgeous.
To avoid the crowds, try going early in the morning. As you can see, it’s an amazing time of day.
Nolan Conrad / alltrails.com
Most prefer to hike it in the summertime, but if the trail isn’t packed with snow, it’s gorgeous in the late fall (Montana winters start early).
Cameron Erickson / alltrails.com
You’ll have no problem completing your hike in an hour or two.
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Address: Drinking Horse Mountain, Montana 59715, USA
