Riding fat and snow bikes in and around Bozeman, Montana and the Gallatin National Forest


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Bozeman is home to some nice town trails that see lots of foot traffic in winter which packs them out nicely for fatbiking.  Once you leave the confines of town and head into the mountains though the possibilities are many and huge.  The surrounding Gallatin National Forest is home to 400 miles of groomed snowmobile trails, all of which are open and accessible to fatbikers.

The Montana State Government and the Gallatin National Forest do have some rules in place regarding fatbiking however.  There is a permit required for snowmobile and fatbike users that wish to access the public lands of our state and not all trails are open to bikes so read on.

As of late 2015 a "Resident Trail Pass" is required for bikers wishing to ride on public lands within Montana (state and federal). These are available online and from some local bike shops. https://app.mt.gov/als/index/index.html

The Gallatin National Forest (if you're riding in another national forest please reach out to the necessary staff to see how the rules may differ) does not allow bikes on trails that are specifically designated for cross country skiing only.  Only trails that have a snowmobile designation, both a snowmobile and ski designation, or trails that have no designation are open for fatbikes.  See the Gallatin National Forest Over Snow Maps that list trails designated as snowmobile and ski routes.  This map can also be acquired in person for free at USFS district offices (phone ahead for availability).

Remember that the mountains around Bozeman are wild and potentially dangerous places during the winter.  Avalanche danger is very real and present even when riding on the seemingly benign trails in a mountain valley.  Be aware of this potential danger before you go out and if you might end up someplace be sure to have the proper training, equipment, and a partner to deal with potential avalanche danger.