Bozeman & Gallatin National Forest: 2-Day Family Nature Loop
Photo by Nica Lorber on Unsplash
About This Trip
This two-day journey starts and ends in Bozeman, introducing you to Montana’s grandeur with gentle hikes, forested campsites, and opportunities to spot wildlife. Balanced for families, this loop keeps daily drives brief and activities easily approachable, while still offering big-sky vistas and authentic mountain adventure.
Designed around:
Trip Route and Map
Click on the map above to open the route in Google Maps.
Route Overview
Trip Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Bozeman to Gallatin Gateway & Camp Under the Pines
Depart Bozeman for an easy day along the Gallatin River, with short family hikes, forest play, and a cozy campsite under the stars.
Stops
Start from Bozeman, MT
Begin your journey here
Gallagator Trail
Begin your day with a child-friendly stroll along Bozeman’s scenic Gallagator Trail. Enjoy interpretive signs and a stop at the historic Story Mill Park, great for a breakfast picnic.
Let the kids play at the large, modern playground at Story Mill Park. Grab local pastries from Wild Crumb bakery nearby.
Gallatin River Trailhead (Sourdough Canyon)
An easy, out-and-back river walk through Sourdough Canyon in Gallatin National Forest. Gentle grade and broad path, great for introducing kids to hiking.
Restrooms at trailhead; bring snacks and let little ones toss pebbles in the stream. Watch for songbirds and deer.
Gallatin Gateway (Picnic Lunch & Meadow Explorations)
Make a midday stop in Gallatin Gateway—enjoy a picnic at Gateway Community Park, or try basic local fare at the Gateway Gas & Deli. Meadow views, open space for outdoor games.
Pick up sandwiches at the gas station deli. Restrooms and shaded picnic tables available.
Greek Creek Campground
Settle in at a classic Gallatin National Forest campground, surrounded by pines and just steps from the river. Simple, affordable, quiet—ideal for families. Afternoon options: hike the short Greek Creek Nature Loop or splash in the shallows.
Arrive early to pick a spot closest to the river. Pit toilets available. Bring marshmallows for s’mores!
Lewis & Clark Caverns and Scenic Return
A day of underground wonder, prairie vistas, and a leisurely loop back to Bozeman. Stop at Montana’s most famous caves and a peaceful park before returning.
Stops
Start from Greek Creek Campground
Continue your adventure from here
Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Marvel at Montana’s largest limestone cave system with guided family tours. Above ground, enjoy gentle hikes and interpretive nature trails perfect for younger kids too.
Book cave tours online in advance (they fill fast in summer)! Bring a jacket—inside the caverns it’s chilly year-round.
Headwaters State Park (Three Forks)
Picnic and short walks among the cottonwoods where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers converge—birthplace of the mighty Missouri River. Flat, interpretive trails for easy family exploring.
Restrooms and shaded tables at the main picnic area. Kids love watching birds and skipping rocks on the riverbank.
Downtown Bozeman—Main Street Stroll & Treats
Cap your adventure by stretching your legs along Bozeman’s charming Main Street. Window shop, grab a scoop of ice cream, and let the kids enjoy the subtle bustle of this mountain town.
Try the local huckleberry ice cream at Genuine Ice Cream Co. Bookshops often do children’s story hours on weekends.
Practical Information
Everything you need to know before you go
Best Time to Visit
May through October for mild temperatures and most campgrounds/facilities open; winter months are crisp and beautiful, though some campsites may close and trails may be snowy.
Recommended Vehicle
All types (car, EV, campervan) are suitable—the roads are well maintained. In winter, AWD/4WD recommended for snow and ice.
Charging & Gas Stations
Gas stations available in Bozeman and Three Forks. Expect limited services in forested areas; fill up before departing Bozeman.
Cell Coverage
Good in/near Bozeman and Three Forks, but expect spotty coverage in Gallatin National Forest; download offline maps.
Estimated Cost
Estimated $130-180 per family for 2 days (campground fees $8-20/night, simple meals, snacks, fuel). Entrance to Lewis & Clark Caverns is $8/adult, $5/child (ages 6-12), and free for children under 6.
Parking Information
Ample free parking at trailheads and campgrounds. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park has large, convenient parking lots.
Accommodation
Family-friendly campgrounds (Gallatin National Forest, Lewis & Clark Caverns) $8-20/night, some require advance booking in summer. Basic motels in Three Forks also available.
Road Conditions
Paved and well-maintained, with a few short gravel stretches near trailheads. Can be icy or snowy November through March—check weather and road closures during the off-season.
Like this itinerary?
Not exactly what you're looking for?
Let our AI create a personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences, schedule, and interests.
Or Browse Similar Itineraries
You might also be interested in these road trips
Taos Adventure Loop: 3 Days of Family & Nature Escapes
Discover the enchanting landscapes around Taos with a family-friendly loop perfect for hiking, camping, and nature photography. Pet- and child-friendly activities reign as you explore rivers, canyons, forests, and mountain vistas.
Beartooth & Absaroka: Budget Fall Adventure from Billings
Discover autumn colors, breathtaking mountains, and pet-friendly trails in a budget loop from Billings through the Beartooth Highway and Absaroka Range.
Lost Coast Adventure: Humboldt to Mendocino in 3 Days
Uncover Northern California’s wild coast, redwoods, and hidden seaside gems with a motorcycle ride from Ferndale to Mendocino.