Description

The Hyalite Creek Trail follows the banks of a rushing mountain stream, crossing it multiple times as it works its way up to Hyalite Lake, high in the mountains above.

This trail is "a stunning canyon ride," according to [Visit Bozeman](http://blog.bozemancvb.com/blog/the-7-best-mountain-bike-trails-near-bozeman).

Along the way, it passes some 11 waterfalls, which are all worth checking out. This trail requires some technical uphill pedaling with small rock gardens and roots.

When the water is high in the springtime, the creek crossings can be deep and fast.

The climb up the canyon is consistent, gaining a stiff 2,200 vertical feet in about 5.5 miles. At the 5.5-mile mark, you'll reach Hyalite Lake, tucked in a beautiful alpine cirque.

This is a great spot to stop, have lunch, and enjoy the incredible views.

It's also the noted turnaround point for this route.

While you can continue on to climb Hyalite Peak, most of the trail leading to the summit will be hike-a-bike for mountain bikers. After enjoying your time at the lake, turn around and rip back down! Be sure to ride heads-up for other trail users. **Note 1:** This trail is on a "shared use" schedule, which bans mountain bikes from the trail on Fridays and Saturdays from July 16th until September 4th.

Be sure to respect the closure and try to ignore the fact that there's no actual "sharing" involved (hikers and horseback riders can use the trail anytime they please). **Note 2:** The Bozeman area is renowned as prime grizzly bear country.

Signs at every trailhead warn that bears are highly active in the area.

Mountain biking is considered a high-risk activity in grizzly bear country due to the quiet speed of a bicycle and how quickly you can accidentally sneak up on a bear when rounding a blind turn.

To mitigate this risk, make plenty of noise while riding, try to ride with a group of people, and consider attaching a bear bell to your handlebars.

Also, make certain that you carry bear spray with you every time you ride, in case you do get into an encounter with a grizzly. Sources: http://blog.bozemancvb.com/blog/the-7-best-mountain-bike-trails-near-bozeman https://www.mtbtrailmaps.com/mtb-trails/trails/bozeman-mt/hyalite-creek/