Home › Montana › Bozeman › Middle Cottonwood Trail
Middle Cottonwood Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 133 Google reviews · Running trail in Bozeman, Montana · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Not reported
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Middle Cottonwood Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Hiking trail featuring mountain views, creek crossings, and the potential for wildlife sightings.
What runners say about Middle Cottonwood Trail
“Not only does it have great shade and beautiful scenery in Cottonwood Creek running parallel to the hike, it is pure peace and serenity.”
“Easy hike with beautiful environment, if it would've been warmer we would've cooled in one of the many pools in the creek.”
This is a beautiful summer trail and is easily my dog's favorite. It follows the creek up the valley with several crossings along the way. Around 3 miles up the trail opens up to some amazing vistas. The snow sticks around well into spring so be prepared.
Last quarter of the trail is the steepest. Follows the creek through the forest most of the way up with great views in the occasional meadow. Trail was pretty easy to follow in the snow due to previous traffic. Saw an American dipper and a ruffed grouse as well as TONS of rabbit and hare sign.
Absolutely had a blast walking this trail. I would consider being a moderate trail. You could probably push a stroller most of the way as long as it wasnt muddy out. All the trees are beautiful. A cute peach with a great view to just sit and admire mother nature and what she has to offer.
Great trail with many many views. Totally worth it if you go to the top or wander off trail and even chill on the river. I do recommend if you are physically fit or determined enough to make it to the summit.
Trail conditions & character
“Not only does it have great shade and beautiful scenery in Cottonwood Creek running parallel to the hike, it is pure peace and serenity.”
“Scenic canyon hike that goes along a creek great for dogs who love water”
Plan your run at Middle Cottonwood Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitefs.usda.gov
- Phone(406) 587-6701
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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