The morning was chilly and the trail was frosty to begin, but it warmed up quickly.Ībout 35 miles west of Bozeman on Highway 84, turn left onto Bear Trap Road. Late last April, we ran up the trail for three miles without encountering snow, although there were some overgrown sections, standing water, and mud. There are many places to turn around, so you can choose your distance. This run is generally done as an out-and-back. The trail follows the Madison River, which is an amazing trout fishery with some very cunning fish, for 7.5 miles to the Madison River Powerhouse. The birding is good on this run, with rafts of American white pelicans floating the river, as well as likely sightings of eagles, canyon wrens, and sagebrush songbirds.

At times, you’ll be a stone’s throw from the placid waters of the river, and if you like a cold recovery soak, it’s an option. The canyon is gradual, yet the views are still dramatic. The trail is well marked and, after a few hundred yards, you enter the Lee Metcalf Wilderness – so leave those drones, bikes, and Roombas at home.

This low elevation, relatively flat trail run along the Madison River is an easy day trip from Bozeman and an ideal early season run. Even if the forecast looks fair, it is a good idea to have a layer or two you can slip on in case of an errant cold front.Īgency: BLM Dillon Field Office, Lee Metcalf Wildernessĭog-friendly: Yes (warm days may bring out rattlesnakes and there is poison ivy) Look at the forecast and prepare accordingly. You could start with a mild bluebird day and end in a blizzard. Spring can be a tricky time in Montana.Build up to longer runs and big elevation days. While you may be eager to frolic among the hills, remember your body may not be quite as ready after a low impact winter. If you haven’t been training through the winter, start slow.If you decide to run it out, stay in the trail tread no matter how muddy. If the trail you have chosen is muddy and slippery, it might be best for you and the trail to choose a different trail. Pack out your garbage, respect wildlife and give them room, and choose the right path. Make sure to carry your bear spray and follow the best practices of traveling in bear country. They wander widely as they look to fill their stomachs after a winter beneath the snow. As we venture out into the spring, so do bears.

Tracing the Trails by Chad A. Clark