Story Mill Nature Reserve – Gallagator Trailhead loop from Bozeman
Story Mill Nature Reserve – Gallagator Trailhead loop from Bozeman
4.8
(7218)
11,876
riders
Story Mill Nature Reserve – Gallagator Trailhead loop from Bozeman
04:09
72.7km
830m
Road cycling
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted
After 6.73 km for 214 m
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
3.77 km
Story Mill Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
Tip by
6.81 km
Gallagator Trailhead
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
14.1 km
Kelly Canyon Road
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
69.2 km
Main Street
Highlight (Segment) • Settlement
Tip by
72.7 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
57.5 km
8.18 km
3.51 km
1.98 km
804 m
479 m
286 m
Surfaces
56.8 km
14.6 km
509 m
448 m
374 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,780 m)
Lowest point (1,440 m)
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Weather
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Today
Tuesday 23 June
23°C
7°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a comprehensive tour of Bozeman's urban and natural cycling gems, the Story Mill Nature Reserve – Gallagator Trailhead loop from Bozeman is a fantastic choice. This moderate road cycling route covers 45.2 miles (72.7 km) with 2732 feet (833 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 4 hours and 8 minutes. It's ideal for cyclists with good fitness who want a diverse ride blending city connections with natural beauty and varying terrain.
What to expect on Story Mill Nature Reserve – Gallagator Trailhead loop from Bozeman
This loop offers a journey through Bozeman's varied landscapes, starting with a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll navigate multi-use trails within the Story Mill Nature Reserve, where gravel paths follow old railroad tracks and wind along Bozeman Creek, offering views of restored wetlands and aspen groves. As you connect to the "Path to the M," expect a paved asphalt shared-use pathway that gains elevation, rewarding you with expansive views of the Bridger Mountains. The Gallagator Trail, primarily crushed stone with some paved sections, provides a scenic ride alongside a creek, passing through Bozeman's Sculpture Park and showcasing art installations. Be prepared for some unpaved segments and steep sections on the "Trail to the M" that provide a good workout.
Planning your visit
This extensive loop requires good fitness due to its length and elevation gain, and some segments may be unpaved and challenging. While individual sections like Story Mill and Gallagator are generally easy, the full circuit is a moderate road ride. Connecting these trails often involves navigating city streets, so be mindful of urban traffic. There are no specific permit requirements mentioned, but always check local conditions, especially for private land access in areas like Story Hills, which may be occasionally closed.
Trail details
- Distance: 45.2 miles (72.7 km)
- Elevation gain: 2732 feet (833 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 8 minutes
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