Most people reach the Bridger Ridge from the M trailhead heading north, or from Fairy Lake heading south. Bridger Bowl is the middle option, a steeper and shorter approach that cuts straight up the ski area to the ridge without the gentler switchbacks you get on other routes. The ski resort setting in summer has a certain quality to it: empty chairlifts, wildflower meadows growing in the ski runs, views of the Gallatin Valley opening behind you as you climb.
The trail is more of a route than a trail, especially in the lower section where it moves through tall grass on a steep fall line that can be hard to track. If you have done the M and Drinking Horse and want something harder and quieter, this is the logical next step. If you want to run the full ridge someday, this is one of the best ways to preview the middle section.
There are at least 4 parking spots immediately at the trailhead, plus there's a big wide gravel road leading up to it with plenty of room to park. This trail is quiet though, and parking won't be a problem.
Take care of business before you leave Bozeman. Once you start heading out of town, there's really nowhere to stop along Bridger Canyon Drive and Bridger Bowl's facilities will not be open during their off-season. Additionally, be aware that there will be limited privacy during the hike.
Traffic picks up on the weekends, but this trail stays quiet relative to similar hikes near town.
There's roughly two miles of well-maintained gravel road while approaching the trailhead.
Using Verizon, service at the ridge was pretty good and can be found in spots on the way up. Don't count on using your phone, but you may as well bring it along on this one.
Seasonally. This hike would likely be too hot and dry for dogs in the summer months. Lack of shade and only the seasonal presence of water make this hike best for dogs in May and June when there is water/snow available.
18 Miles from Bozeman, MT. 35 Minutes
From Bozeman, head towards Bridger Bowl on Bridger Canyon Drive. When you see the sign, turn into the entrance for Bridger Bowl Ski Area. As you approach the chalet, continue on past as the road keeps right and winds uphill for approximately one mile. You'll see the trailhead sign on your right and a gate ahead that is usually closed. There are approximately 4-5 spots for cars plus a lot of gravel road with plenty of room to park. This hike is usually pretty quiet and parking won't be an issue.
If you're hiking in the spring, a seasonal creek runs right behind the trailhead. It also is accessible to the north of the main route a few places during the hike. Don't count on this water source in the drier summer months. Due to unpredictable pumping opportunities, it'd be a good idea to carry 64 oz per person. It should be enough to complete the hike, but not too much to carry the whole way.
64 oz consumed per person
If you're looking to take the most direct route to the top (described here), the trail can be narrow, steep, uneven, and hard to follow. Navigation isn't a problem since the lack of trees always allows you to keep the ridge in sight, but finding the beaten path can be tricky. If you're looking for a path that is a bit less steep and easier to follow, look to your 2:00 as you start the hike. This is the "North Bowl Road" on the Bridger Trail Map. Expect snow through May which might prevent you from getting to the ridge.
Sun protection is necessary on this hike. Wear either light synthetic fabrics or lots of sunscreen. Be prepared for wind and cooler temps at the ridge with an extra layer. DO NOT FORGET SUNGLASSES. The first part of the trail gets overgrown with tall grass and flowers in the mid to late summer months, so it's nice to have light pants on even if it's hot.
Footwear: Hiking Boots
Not required to bring food on this hike. If you choose to bring a snack or lunch, the ski lifts offer nice places to stop and rest, as does the helipad on the ridge once you get to the top.
Dependent upon season you could be hiking through tall grass packed with grasshoppers and other bugs.
There are very few trees and little cover on this hike. You're exposed to the sun and wind, plan accordingly.
Lack of trees, water and a constant incline make this a less than desirable camping spot.
There is another trail that runs along the spine of the Bridgers referred to as the Bridger Ridge Hike. It is a 22-mile trail running between the "M" parking lot and Sacajawea Peak. Bridger Bowl is a great way to access the halfway point of the Bridger Ridge Hike.
Beartooth Publishing's Bozeman Area Map covers this hike in its entirety.
Late May through October. Snow can block the upper ridge into May. Summer mornings are best before the heat and grasshoppers hit the tall grass on the lower section. Fall brings cooler temps and thinner crowds.
June through September: ridge clear, wildflowers in early summer on the ski run meadows, best views of the Gallatin Valley without haze.
Late May and October: snow may linger on the upper route, but the cooler temperatures make the exposed climb more manageable.
Before mid-May: snow on the upper trail may prevent reaching the ridge. The route below the chairlifts can be icy into spring.
Not exactly. The route follows a steep fall line below the ski lifts that can be hard to track in tall grass. You keep the ridge in sight above you and navigate toward it. There is also a North Bowl Road alternative that is less steep and easier to follow — it branches right from the trailhead.
A seasonal creek runs behind the trailhead in spring and early summer. By late June it dries up and the trail has no reliable water from trailhead to ridge. Carry everything you need.
The resort itself is not operating in summer, but the land is accessible for hiking. The gate to the upper parking area may be closed, so parking is near the base of the access road.
The Bridger Ridge trail runs 22 miles between the M trailhead and Sacagawea Peak. From Bridger Bowl you're accessing the middle of this route and can head north toward Fairy Lake or south toward the M.
No. No shade, no reliable water, and significant heat on an exposed slope make this hard on dogs from late June through August. It is best for dogs in May and June when there is still snow or water available.
Plug 5 miles and 2,116 feet of elevation gain into our free hiking time calculator for a personalized estimate.