We’ll say it over and over again – Bozeman summers are one for the books.
To fully enjoy one of the best seasons Montana has to offer, our latest challenge not only incorporates that Zephyr sweat we know and love, but also encourages us to get outside and onto those trails.
Tour de Zephyr is simple. Ride 600 miles by the end of summer and be invited to an exclusive outdoor Zephyr ride in September. For every rider who completes 100 miles in June, July and August, you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a $100 gift card to Sola Café!
The best part? We’re inviting all participants to get out on those trails by specifying three hikes each month that, if completed, add an additional 15 miles to your summer total. Stay tuned to our Instagram to see what hikes we’re featuring next!
To keep the summer vibes going, we wanted to share a few of our favorite hikes in and around Bozeman. Check out a few of our Zephyr team members’ favorite hikes below!
The M
Lauren’s Pick
With its close proximity to town, multiple route options, and paved parking lot, the M is one of Bozeman’s most popular trails. With this hike, you can either choose the hard way (about .5 miles of steep terrain) or the easier way (about 1.5 miles of moderate grade). Whichever way you choose to go, be prepared for one of the most beautiful views that Bozeman has to offer once you reach the top.
Baldy Peak
Sarah’s Pick
Straight up from the M is Baldy. If completed top to bottom, the hike would take around 5-6 hours, which makes for a great half-day excursion. Baldy is rated difficult, as the entire way up is a fairly steep grade mixed with loose rocks, shale and single-track trail. If you’re looking for a workout, this hike is for you!
Drinking Horse
Carlynn’s Pick
Right across from The M is another iconic Bozeman hike – Drinking Horse. This moderate hike is around 3 miles round-trip, and also offers two routes depending on the level of difficulty you’re looking for. Drinking Horse is a great trail if you need a midday break from work or a quick outdoor fix.
Triple Tree
Demi’s Pick
Just outside the southside of town lies Triple Tree. Hikers, mountain bikers and trail runners alike frequent Triple Tree as it offers various types of terrain with a loop-style trail system. This trail also has two starting points to choose from –the lower level and the upper level, which range from 3-5 miles round trip depending on how much time you have or what type of hike you’re looking for.
Sacagawea Peak
Jackie’s Pick
Sacagawea Peak (Sac Peak for short) lies on the tail end of the Bridger Mountain Range. Park at the Fairy Lake parking lot to access this hike – you’ll have a great chance to cool off in the lake once you head back to your car. While on the trail, you’ll be greeted by mountain goats, wildflowers and incredible views of both sides of the Bridgers.
Lava Lake
Allie’s Pick
Down the Gallatin Canyon lies Lava Lake – a moderate out and back trail that leads to a peaceful, stunning mountain lake in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The hike is around 5 miles round-trip, and once you reach the lake, a number of trails will greet you that will allow you to explore around the lake even further.
Beehive Basin
Carolyn’s Pick
Take the scenic drive down the Gallatin Canyon, head past Big Sky Town Center and Big Sky resort, and find yourself at the Beehive Basin trailhead with one of the most unique hikes in southwest Montana. This hike winds up through the Custer Gallatin National Forest, opens up along a rocky mountainside, and leads you to a a serene alpine lake with stunning views of the Spanish Peaks and Gallatin Range. For this one, bring plenty of water – and bear spray!
We can’t wait to see you in the studio (and on the trails!) soon.
Want more? Check out our post about how indoor cycling prepares you for the trails!