Is it hard to get to Bozeman?
No, it is not hard to get to Bozeman; in fact, it's easier than ever. Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport has nine airlines with service across the country, including 32 nonstop flights to major cities. If you're driving, you can access Bozeman from I-90 or US 191, which takes you to West Yellowstone, the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park. We do have running water, an incredible museum with T-REX, great restaurants and plenty of outdoor recreation.
How far ahead should I plan my trip to Bozeman?
The short answer is: book it well in advance. Lodging, tours, and rental cars can all sell out, particularly in the summer. Campgrounds all book up months before summer hits, and there are many events that bring tourists to town that make it difficult to book lodging. Book using our travel page for best rates and availability HERE!
How far is Yellowstone National Park?
Bozeman sits between two entrances to Yellowstone: the west entrance in West Yellowstone, MT, and the north in Gardiner, MT. The distance to West Yellowstone is 89.2 miles. However, it is through the beautiful Gallatin Canyon, a windy road with heavy traffic, so plan to go slow. Gardiner is 77.9 miles from Bozeman, with the town of Livingston in between.
How hot/cold does it get in Bozeman?
Pretty cold. According to U.S. Climate Data, it starts cooling off in October, with an average low of 32 degrees Fahrenheit. December through February, the low ranges from 12 to 17 degrees and warms up to a balmy 38 degree-average low by May. So, our wedding weekend, averages could range:
High Temp: 74 °F, Low Temp: 39 °F with the Mean Temp: 57 °F
Elevation sits at 4,817′
What college is in Bozeman?
Established in 1893, Montana State University is now the largest university in the state, with roughly 16,766 students. As Montana's Land Grant University, the school is recognized nationally for its prominence in research among public universities.
How do I get to Bozeman from the airport?
There are a few ways to get to Bozeman from the airport: by way of I-90, Frontage Road West, or Jackrabbit Lane from Belgrade. The drive is 10.8 miles from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport to the city of Bozeman via I-90, 10.4 miles on the Frontage Road (but it takes longer), or 16.1 miles on Jackrabbit Lane. Be sure to check a map before you go; there are several roundabouts when leaving the airport. Bozeman also has taxies, rideshare, and shuttles to surrounding areas. In addition, there are several rental car companies, and most hotels offer airport shuttle services.
What footwear should I bring?
If you are planning hiking or outdoor activities, bring your tennis shoes or hiking boots! Water shoes or sandals come in handy if you are planning on recreating in area rivers or lakes, and for the wedding day, we will be on dirt roads and lawn, so plan accordingly! Wedges for ladies or booties/cowgirl boots (heels are not too great at Foster Creek Farm), regular closed toed shoes or cowboy boots for men!
Are there good places to eat?
Absolutely! Bozeman draws a diverse group of people worldwide, including chefs who have brought their culinary talents to the mountains. As a result, you'll find a variety of cuisines, plus many restaurants source much of their meat and produce from local producers. You'll find an extensive list of Bozeman's restaurants here.
Are there any good breweries or distilleries?
More than you would expect in a town this size! Bozeman has nine breweries (with two more on the way), two distilleries, a cider house, hard kombucha, and a meadery. Talk about creative libations!
What lodging is central or downtown?
There are several hotels in or near downtown, ranging from renovated boutique hotels like RSVP Motel, Lewis and Clark Motel, and The Lark to national brands such as Marriot's Residence Inn and Element. The latest addition is the Kimpton Armory Hotel, which incorporated the historic Armory building. It is now home to a four-star hotel with great restaurants, a rooftop bar, a rooftop swimming pool, and music venues. Please see our Travel page for accommodations and room blocks that we have specifically set up.
Are there any lodges or cabins nearby?
There are several cabins and lodges near Bozeman. For bigger groups, check out Hardscrabble Ranch, located in the heart of Bridger Canyon. The Howler's Inn Bed and Breakfast and Wolf Sanctuary, also up Bridger Canyon, is a truly unique experience where you can enjoy breakfast while looking out over the wolf pack. Or, for a more rustic stay, there are several Forest Service Cabins in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.
What is the best place to see wildlife?
Hands down, the best place to see wildlife is in Yellowstone National Park. Bozeman is nestled between the west and north entrances to the park, approximately 90 miles away. If you are entering from the west side at West Yellowstone, you'll often see bison as you start to approach the town. In Mammoth Hot Springs, just outside of Gardiner at the north entrance, elk casually stroll around, eating the fresh grass and lounging in the shade.
Where are the best trails?
There are trails all around Bozeman, so it depends on what type of trail you are looking for. Gallatin Valley Land Trust maintains a beautiful trail system, Main Street to the Mountains. Some routes run through town and are interconnected, such as the Gallagator Trail, and others like the College M and Drinking Horse are just outside of town. For longer hikes, there are several routes in the Bridger Mountain Range and Sourdough, Triple Tree, and Leverich to the south of town. In addition, Hyalite Recreation Area has several trails including Palisade Falls, which is paved and handicapped accessible, and some of the area's more prominent peaks, Hyalite and Blackmore.
Does Bozeman have any lakes?
Several! Two small ponds are open to the public in town: Glen Lake Rotary Park and Bozeman Pond. Hyalite Reservoir in Hyalite Canyon is a no-wake lake, perfect for stand-up paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks. In the Bridger Mountain Range, Fairy Lake is a favorite for day trips to a high alpine lake.
What is a good time to visit Bozeman?
Any time is a good time to visit Bozeman! However, if you've explored in the summer, you may want to come back and experience winter adventure. Autumn is a lovely and quieter time to visit, and spring, though it can be rainy, is gorgeous with the fresh colors of grass, wildflowers, snow-capped hills, and big blue skies. Spring is also when the wildlife babies are born in Yellowstone – an exciting time of year!
What hot springs are in the area?
Bozeman Hot Springs, just a few miles down the road in Four Corners, has twelve pools, both indoor and outdoor, along with a wet and dry sauna. About a half-hour drive away, Norris Hot Springs has excellent food and local music on the weekends. East of Bozeman, in Paradise Valley, Chico Hot Springs and Yellowstone Hot Springs are easy day trips. For more options, read about all of the best hot springs across the state.
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