Just because it is winter doesn’t mean that we can’t be out exploring the beautiful Bozeman trails! Whether on foot, snowshoe, or nordic skis, winter trails provide an outdoor experience not found in the summer months. 

Oboz Footwear, REI, and the Bridger Ski Foundation are inviting you to complete as many of Bozeman’s selected winter trail segments as you can in the month of February. This Experience is designed for you to discover your new favorite trails, learn about new or lesser known trails, and recreate locally in the winter! You’ll also have the chance to compete against local legends, friends, or just yourself if that’s more your style. 

The Oboz Trail Experience is open to walkers, snowshoers, nordic skiers, and ADA mobility devices. How many miles of the trails can you complete? It’s free to register and sign-up is easy. Trail rewards can be unlocked by completing Promoted Trails and everyone who completes 100% of the Experience will be entered to win one of five pairs of Oboz Footwear at the after-party!

• February 1 - Oboz Trail Experience begins
• February 29 - Last day of the Oboz Trail Experience 
• March date TBA - After-Party! 

There is a whole community exploring Bozeman's trails with you! Be sure to check in throughout the Experience to see your progress, view the Individual and Team Standings, Recent Activity, and Discussion Board. And don’t forget to join the Oboz Trail Experience: Bozeman Facebook group and upload photos from your trail time on Instagram using #oboztrailxbozeman to connect with others, share pictures from the trail, talk about your trail experiences, and receive Oboz Trail Experience updates.

As a reminder, whether following marked or even unmarked cross country ski trails, please be aware of trail etiquette and avoid walking or snowshoeing on the ski tracks set by the groomer or by other skiers. While Highland Glen groomed trails are for ski traffic only, the ungroomed multi-use trail also allows for leashed dogs, bikes, and foot traffic. Foot traffic, bikes and dogs can be harmful to groomed ski trails.

As with any Montana winter adventure, be sure to wear layers. Wool and synthetic fibers wick moisture and keep you warmer than cotton. Mittens are warmer than gloves, and be sure you can wiggle your toes in your shoes to keep them from getting cold. Waterproof or water-resistant shoes are all that's generally needed unless you are going off-trail where the snow is deeper. If so, a good pair of snow boots is better, along with a pair of gaiters to keep the snow out. Be sure to bring food, water, and sun protection. Trekking poles aren't necessary, but they help keep your balance and offer some support on the downhills.

Hiking in the Winter tips courtesy of Oboz Footwear. 

About the Bridger Ski Foundation  The Bridger Ski Foundation helps make the Oboz Trail Experience in Bozeman possible, not only by recommending trails to be included, but by continuing to preserve Bozeman’s winter trail network. Bridger Ski Foundation (BSF) is a nonprofit community ski organization that funds educational and competitive programs for all ages, year round, in Nordic, Alpine, and Freestyle/Freeskiing. They also groom an incredible network of community Nordic ski trails for the public in Bozeman. BSF focuses on inspiring a lifelong love of skiing, athletic excellence, and personal growth. 

BSF Mental Health Initiative As one of the area’s oldest and largest nonprofits serving youth, Bridger Ski Foundation is leaning into addressing our community’s mental health crisis. We are in year two of BSF’s mental health initiative, which includes providing training for coaches, an on-snow mental health professional, resources and training for parents, and an educational toolkit for the broader community. The foundation of Bridger Ski Foundation is connecting youth and the community with opportunities for wellness through winter outdoor access and we’re proud to partner with Oboz Footwear to further this mission. You can read more and access resources here.

About REI Bozeman  REI Bozeman provides outdoor enthusiasts in the Bozeman, Montana, area with top-brand gear & clothing for camping, climbing, cycling, fitness, hiking, skiing, snowboarding and more. We’re a complete Bozeman-area bike shop, offering a full range of professional bike shop services to help keep you biking the streets and trails year-round. Our ski & snowboard shop services will get your gear tuned up for the slopes. Come let our staff of friendly experts help you get ready for your next adventure.

This year, Bridger Ski Foundation is excited to announce that you can now purchase a trails pass or a winter trails map in person at REI! Stop by today and support your local Community Nordic Trails.

Need snowshoes or other winter gear? Check out the offering at REI Bozeman!