Triple Tree Trail Outside Bozeman, Montana

Triple Tree Trail is about 10 minutes south of Bozeman, Montana. This is a heavily trafficked, out and back, trail. A trail featuring various wildflowers, sweeping views of the Gallatin Valley, and wildlife.

Getting here can be difficult if you don’t have a car, as no public transportation services the area. Instead, if you have your own car, or a rental car, then use Google Maps to get to the trailhead. You can also get there by a taxi or an Uber. I don’t recommend either. Both are expensive and neither guarantee a way home.

Find budget hostels through Hostelworld for the best deals. There’s one hostel in Bozeman that charges $29.50 per night. It’s possible to find budget hotels, and guestrooms, for rent with Booking.com. Booking has a wider range of accommodations but they’re more expensive too.

Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash at all times. This is both for your safety and the dogs. Bears and mountain lions frequent the trail, the region, and the state. This includes both black and grizzly bears. Practice safe hiking practices and hike with bear spray to avoid any issues.

The Triple Tree Trail is mainly used for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. It is best when used between the months of May and October, as these trails get heavily snow packed during the winter. However, they could be fun with the proper equipment.

The hike begins at the trailhead next to the parking lot. As the trail continues, it passes through a bright green grassy field. A field full of grain, that waves to anyone passing by, pushed by the wind, back and forth. About one and a half mile in, the trail split in a fork, with both directions leading to the summit.

I chose to traverse in a clockwise direction. This proved to be the right decision. It created a longer journey to the summit, but a shorter walk back to the parking lot. I find it best to take on the hardest sections first during a hike. This way, the finish is an easier walk back to the car.

Much of the trail winds in and out of a lush Pine Forest. The view is constantly teasing hikers, weaving in and out of the trees. There is enough shrub coverage to keep from snapping any good pictures. Yet, before reaching the end, the trees and brush clear for an open panoramic view. Providing a sweeping view of Bozeman and the surrounding Gallatin Valley.

Triple Tree Tail is steep. It has a grade of 10-12% for a good part of the hike. It wasn’t too challenging and definitely worth the effort. This is the perfect hike for new visitors of the Bozeman area. Triple Tree is great for everyone, especially those with little hiking experience. Or, for others that are looking for something a little less challenging. 10/10 I would do this one again.