Sourdough Canyon Trail Bozeman
A popular, multi-use trail near Bozeman, offering access to stunning mountain scenery and a network of backcountry routes. Ideal for hiking, biking, a...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Sourdough Canyon Trail Bozeman
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A popular, multi-use trail near Bozeman, offering access to stunning mountain scenery and a network of backcountry routes. Ideal for hiking, biking, and winter sports.
"This trail is essentially the highway to the mountains, offering endless exploration possibilities."
Leash Your Dog! :dog:
Many dogs are off-leash, posing risks to bikers and other users. Keep your furry friend leashed for safety.
Be Trail Aware :construction_worker:
Construction can occur, so watch for trucks and be mindful of your surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gateway to Mystic Lake
Sourdough Canyon Trailhead
Hike or bike towards Mystic Lake for stunning alpine scenery. A rewarding destination for the persistent.
Wide, Smooth Paths
Main Sourdough Canyon Trail
Enjoy a well-maintained, wide trail perfect for hiking, biking, and running. Great for all skill levels.
Winter Grooming
Sourdough Canyon Trail
Experience groomed trails for cross-country skiing during the winter months. A local favorite for snow sports.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Dog Policies
Trail Access & Construction
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Leash Your Dog! :dog:
Many dogs are off-leash, posing risks to bikers and other users. Keep your furry friend leashed for safety.
Be Trail Aware :construction_worker:
Construction can occur, so watch for trucks and be mindful of your surroundings.
Winter Skiing :ski:
The trail is groomed for cross-country skiing in winter. A beautiful way to experience the snow.
Explore Beyond :mountain_railway:
The main trail is a highway to many other mountain destinations like Leverich and Bear Canyon.
Tips
from all over the internet
Leash Your Dog! :dog:
Many dogs are off-leash, posing risks to bikers and other users. Keep your furry friend leashed for safety.
Be Trail Aware :construction_worker:
Construction can occur, so watch for trucks and be mindful of your surroundings.
Winter Skiing :ski:
The trail is groomed for cross-country skiing in winter. A beautiful way to experience the snow.
Explore Beyond :mountain_railway:
The main trail is a highway to many other mountain destinations like Leverich and Bear Canyon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sourdough Canyon Trail is a beloved local resource, praised for its accessibility and scenic beauty, serving as a gateway to further mountain exploration. While many appreciate the well-maintained paths for hiking, biking, and running, some users express concerns about off-leash dogs and occasional construction. Overall, it's a highly recommended spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. +2
"Beautiful wide trail meant for hikers, bikers and runners. The only issue I had were that dogs are off leash and run all over the trail making it dangerous for bikers and the dogs. With sooooo many people using the trails the dogs should be leashed."
daniela cawthorn
"Great local trail not far from Bozeman. Lots of locals with very polite and mindful dogs. It is a biking trail also but wasn't too busy. There was some construction going on so you do need to be alert for trucks coming and going."
K Fab
"The great thing about this trail is the incredible number of places you can go from it. While the first four miles or so are pretty easy and usually pretty crowded with lots of dogs, after the bridge you can go anywhere. Right takes you to leverich. Left takes you to mystic lake, and beyond. If you have the time and perseverance, you could end up at bear canyon or highlight. I would recommend biking, skiing, or running, but if you know what you're doing, sourdough is essentially the highway to the mountains. Oh and please, call it Sourdough. The creek is Bozeman creek, the trail is Sourdough."
Sorin Huseby
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sourdough Canyon Trail is easily accessible from Bozeman. Head south on Bridger Canyon Road (MT-86) and turn right onto Nash Road, which leads to the trailhead. It's a popular local spot, so expect company.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Sourdough Canyon Trailhead. It can get busy, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transport options to the immediate trailhead are limited. It's best to drive or consider a ride-sharing service if you don't have your own vehicle.
The road leading to the trailhead is generally well-maintained. However, always check local road conditions, especially during winter months, as snow can impact access.
The access road is typically suitable for most vehicles. However, the parking lot can be tight, so larger RVs might find parking challenging during busy periods.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No permit is required for general hiking, biking, or running on Sourdough Canyon Trail. It's a public access area managed by the Forest Service.
There are no entrance fees to access Sourdough Canyon Trail. It's a free public recreation area.
Sourdough Canyon Trail is open year-round, from dawn to dusk. Access may be limited during severe winter weather.
While there aren't official guided tours for the main trail, local outdoor outfitters in Bozeman may offer guided excursions to nearby destinations accessible from Sourdough.
The initial section of the trail is wide and relatively smooth, making it somewhat accessible. However, further into the canyon, the terrain can become more challenging.
🎫 :compass: Onsite Experience
Sourdough Canyon Trail is a versatile trail. Many enjoy it for hiking, trail running, and especially biking. In winter, it's groomed for cross-country skiing.
The trail can get quite busy, especially the first few miles, with locals and visitors. Weekends and summer mornings tend to be the most crowded. +1
Yes, dogs are allowed, but they are often off-leash. This can be a concern for bikers and other users. Leashing your dog is highly recommended for everyone's safety.
You might encounter common wildlife like deer, squirrels, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
Absolutely! The wide, smooth path makes it an excellent choice for trail runners of all levels. It's a popular local spot for a good workout.
📸 :camera_with_flash: Photography
The trail offers scenic views of the Gallatin National Forest, with opportunities for shots of the creek, surrounding mountains, and lush vegetation. The access to Mystic Lake also provides stunning alpine backdrops.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can provide dramatic skies.
Drone usage is subject to Forest Service regulations. Check with the Gallatin National Forest for current rules and restrictions regarding drone operation in this area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Comfortable hiking shoes are essential for reaching more remote viewpoints.
The trail itself offers continuous scenic beauty. The area around the bridge, about four miles in, and the approach to Mystic Lake are particularly picturesque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for other trail users, including dogs, so keeping a close eye on children is advised. Packing snacks and water is always a good idea for family outings. The trail's connection to Mystic Lake also offers a rewarding destination for families with a bit more stamina.
🚴♀️ Bikers and Runners
Runners will appreciate the consistent terrain, which is forgiving on the joints. The trail's popularity means you'll likely encounter other users, so be mindful of passing etiquette. Remember that while many dogs are friendly, they are often off-leash, so be prepared to navigate around them.
❄️ Winter Enthusiasts
Snowshoers can also enjoy the trail, though it's not specifically groomed for them. It's a great way to explore the winter landscape and get some exercise. Always check avalanche conditions if you plan to explore beyond the main groomed areas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Sourdough Canyon Trail
For those seeking longer adventures, Sourdough Canyon Trail can connect to trails leading to Bear Canyon or even Highlight. This makes it a crucial starting point for more ambitious backcountry trips. It's important to note that while the trail is generally easy to follow, having a map or GPS device is advisable if you plan to venture off the main path.
During winter, the trail is often groomed for cross-country skiing, providing a serene way to experience the snow-covered landscape. The trail's accessibility and connectivity make it a beloved resource for both locals and visitors looking to explore the Bozeman area's natural beauty.
Winter Activities on Sourdough Canyon Trail
Beyond cross-country skiing, the trail can also be used for snowshoeing. While not groomed for snowshoeing, the packed snow from skiers often makes for easier travel than breaking fresh powder. It's a fantastic way to get some exercise and enjoy the crisp mountain air.
It's essential to be prepared for winter conditions. Dress in layers, carry water, and be aware of shorter daylight hours. Avalanche awareness is also crucial if venturing into higher elevations accessible from the trail, as some slopes can be prone to slides.
Understanding Trail Etiquette and Safety
A significant point of discussion among users is the prevalence of off-leash dogs. While many dogs are well-behaved, their presence can be disruptive or even dangerous for bikers and other trail users. The consensus from reviews and discussions is that leashing dogs is the safest and most considerate practice.
Safety also extends to being aware of potential hazards. Construction can occur, requiring vigilance for trucks and equipment.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit