Just because it is winter doesn’t mean that we can’t be out exploring the beautiful Bozeman trails! Whether on foot or by snowshoe, 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, your peers, or yourself if that’s more your style. 

The Oboz Trail Experience is open to walkers, snowshoers, hikers and runners. How many of the trails in Bozeman’s beautiful winter trail network 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!

• January 1 - Registration opens
• February 1 - Oboz Trail Experience begins
• February 28 - Last day of the Oboz Trail Experience 
• March 2 - After-Party! 5:00-6:30pm at the Oboz Footwear / GVLT Offices at 212 S. Wallace Ave in Bozeman

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 upload photos from your trail time on Instagram using #oboztrailx. 

Hike Kind! In a world where you can be anything, be kind. Find tools and tips to Hike Kind through the Gallatin Valley Land Trust here. 

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 based in Bozeman, Montana. We provide and fund educational and competitive programs for all ages, year round, in Nordic, Alpine, and Freestyle/Freeskiing. We also groom an incredible network of community Nordic ski trails for the public in Bozeman. We focus on inspiring a lifelong love of skiing, athletic excellence, and personal growth.Our programs and trails are open to everyone, and we strive to keep skiing affordable through fundraising, scholarships, financial aid, open trail access, and equipment assistance. In 2015, BSF became a Gold Certified Club, the highest recognition given by U.S. Ski & Snow­board; in 2019, they once again earned that designation through the recertification process.

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.

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. And always, hike with a partner. There are many unforeseen risks when exploring Montana's backcountry so please snowshoe with caution. Snowshoeing is a great way to experience the winter in Bozeman, but be sure to pack accordingly. 

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. 

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