The Best Day Trips Within Two Hours of Bozeman

If you live in Bozeman, you learn pretty quickly that the best part of Montana isn’t just what you can find around town, it’s what you can find in the surrounding area.

Within about two hours in any direction, you can go from mountain peaks and river valleys to historic mining towns, hot springs, and the northern edge of Yellowstone National Park. It’s one of the reasons so many people fall in love with this part of Montana in the first place. There’s always somewhere worth driving to.

Weather in spring can be unpredictable in Montana, but summer is an ideal time to hit the road in Big Sky Country.

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During the summer, Montana transforms into one of the best road trip states in the country. High mountain passes open up, and suddenly every direction out of Bozeman feels a gateway to adventure. You don’t really need a plan, just a tank of gas and a general idea of which way you want to go.

Yellowstone National Park’s North Entrance near Gardiner is just under two hours away, and the drive itself through Paradise Valley is half the experience. Towering cliffs, scenic river views, and the occasional herd of wildlife make it one of the most scenic drives in the entire state.

You could head over the Bozeman Pass and spend a day in Livingston. There are breweries, art galleries, and plenty of other things to keep you busy. It’s an easy day trip, especially when you want something relaxed but still interesting.

If you're looking for small-town charm, head to Ennis to enjoy the views. You could stop at Norris Hot Springs for a relaxing soak on the way.

If you want to get off the grid, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking within two hours of Bozeman.

Even something as simple as Hyalite Canyon, just outside Bozeman, can turn into a full-day trip if you’re in the mood for waterfalls, hiking, or just escaping town for a few hours.

What's your favorite day trip within two hours of Bozeman? Send us a message on our station app and let us know.