College 'M' Trail

My wife's cousin hikes this trail most days and wanted to show us when we visited. It is a beautiful trail that is varying in challenge based on which path you choose. No matter what you choose, the views at the top are incredible. This is a popular trail and you will not be alone. Their's not much more to say besides check out my photos.

Great views. Great workout. Would definitely do again. However…coming from a 22yr old male who is somewhat athletic and not accustomed to the altitude, the combination of trails were pretty challenging. I completed the hardest trail in 21 min and my watch estimated 810ft of elevation. It’s practically straight up with no flat areas. I walked down the “easy” trail and it looked challenging to walk up as well, however, it is more doable taking me 30min with no breaks to go down. The shortcut trail is also steep and has sections of very loose rock that can be somewhat sketchy as well. Hikers of all ages were on the trail from younger families with kids to older women. I would recommend you take it slow, bring water, and be careful. It’s a good challenge and I felt safe in the area.

The M Hike is a must-do in Bozeman! It’s a great workout with a steady climb, and the views from the top are absolutely worth it. Hiking in the snow made it even more beautiful—peaceful, crisp, and a little extra challenging. Whether you're looking for exercise or just want to take in the scenery, this trail is a great choice!

College 'M' Trail is a fantastic hiking route that offers stunning panoramic views and a rewarding outdoor experience. The trail is well-marked, moderately challenging, and perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic landscapes, fresh mountain air, and peaceful surroundings. It’s especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset. Clean, safe, and well-maintained, College 'M' Trail is a must-visit spot for adventure and nature lovers alike.

Beautiful walk. Definitely did not pick the best time to go, heavy snow. It would be good if the city could add some additional postage on the distance and arrows pointing to the correct route. Take a friend with you, can be a little daunting if you find yourself stuff. On the long route, the shortcut is slightly dangerous when snowy, make sure to have some water

This is a great hike and a really nice way to experience the Bozeman surrounding landscapes. There are 2 ways to get to the M, so depending on your fitness level, you can choose the long way or the short way. We chose the scenic/long way (still challenging along some parts of the trail). But the views at the top are worth it.

It's a nice, short, hike just outside of Bozeman. There aren't a lot of trees, so it can be really hot on a summer's day. There are also some parts that can be impossibly slick in the winter. Overall, it's a safe hike outside of town that provides some great views and is family friendly.

Wonderfully beautiful hike! The "easy way" eas very doable for our 4yr old. We loved it! Lots of beautiful scenery from the top with gorgeous views. Easily accessible via vehicle with adequate parking. Heavily trafficked, but I was still able to run down it with minimal disruptions/interruptions.

I attempted the "easy" trail a few days ago while I was visiting Bozeman. I'm over 65, and admittedly not in top condition but I wanted to try. There's quite a bit of elevation. I'm glad I tried and got a good work out in Parking wasn't bad at all. It's definitely a good hike while visiting Bozeman.

Super steep & not for the faint of heart. I would highly suggest going in the early morning to miss the crowds as it is a very popular hike amongst tourists and locals alike. Dog friendly and people are kind and friendly! It is a relatively short distance hike but as I mentioned steep so I would recommend some poles if you're not used to it! I personally didn't make it to the top but my husband did and said it was pretty peaceful and serene!

Amazing hike and view there are a couple shortcuts that may help some people who don't want to take extra time they don't need to. The view was beautiful and definitely worth the hike!

If you're looking for a breath taking view of all of Bozeman, this is the perfect place!!! By all means is this place beautiful, refreshing, and workout (if you take the thought route). The tough route which roughly take about 30 min or so is quit steep. I strongly recommend this route if you consider yourself a bit active or willing to workout. It has many obstacles like rocks and steep hill. The view is AMAZING, it allows you to see the city on the right side and massive pine trees on the other. Being from LA we don't have many hike trains, but this one is one of the best trains if done those far. It's an ADVENTURE!!

Sweeping views, thunder, summer rain it all made for a nice hike. I'd looked into somewhere to get onto a trail within a couple hours of touching down in Bozeman and decided we'd hit the famous College M. Short and easy hike but I think the perfect way to start a trip in this area and get in some steps after brunch. I had recently picked up a couple items at a local running store and asked for a few suggestions for the area, they mentioned College M and the exposed trail and Sourdough Canyon which I had bookmarked. We ended up hiking Sourdough Canyon a few days later and I fell in love, but if I lived in the area and needed a quick and easy College M gets the job done. You can go the steeper shorter route or the more gradual further distance way up and behind the M, we chose this route just because we wanted to be outside a bit longer than the extremely short time it would have taken to do the steep shorter route. Parking lot with plenty of space when we arrived. Very friendly trail. Many trail runners and no mountain bikes in sight (which as much as I loved Sourdough Canyon, there were so many of). Will definitely hike these trails again when I'm back in town.

An absolutely beautiful sight to see! I was told by coworkers that it was a "medium" beautiful climb that is work the hike. Fortunately they were right about the beautiful part, but not the medium part. The "easy" route of the hike is nowhere near easy at all and is hard and long. It will definitely take you about 40 minutes to get up. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and do not be ashamed to stop and rest when you need to. The hike is definitely worth it as you get an amazing and beautiful view of the Gallatin mountains, various hills, and Bozeman. I would do it all again!

It's a climb mostly when your older but the trail is well worn and lots of hikers in case I need cared down. People park all over the place because it gets pretty busy but it's nice they have a rest room.

This is an iconic hiking trail in Bozeman, MT. If you've only time to do do one hike while in town, this is a must-do trail. The trailhead is just a few minutes outside of town and is a quick 60-90 minutes depending if you choose the easy or the strenuous, steeper trail up to the "M." The big sky views from the top are incredible and worth every drop of sweat you spared to get up there. This trail can get busy so be aware that the parking area may fill up. Also note that wildlife may be near. It's good to always be aware, alert, and keep a safe distance if needed.