Bozeman Backroads: Ultimate Local Motorcycle Loops

There’s just something about hitting the open road that clears your head and lifts your spirits. Sure, cruising in a car is great—but doing it on a motorcycle? Whole different level of fun.

I’ve been riding for a few years now, and I’ve been lucky enough to explore a lot of the West (and even a bit internationally) on two wheels. While I love a big, mapped-out trip, some of my favorite rides have been the smaller, spontaneous ones—day trips close to home that don’t require much planning but still deliver the goods.

Back when I lived in other places, I’d always keep a running list of loops or out-and-back rides that ended with something worthwhile—like a killer meal, a lake to dip my feet in, or just a beautiful stretch of highway with no traffic. Now that I’m here in Bozeman, I’ve gotta say… we are spoiled. This place is basically a rider’s dream.

If you’ve got a Saturday with nothing on the calendar and gas in the tank, I’ve got two of the best day loops out of Bozeman for motorcycle lovers. Trust me, you’re gonna want to bookmark these with summer on the way.

Wilsall Loop Ride

This is a fantastic ride I’ve got my eye on. You’ll cruise past the Bridgers, catch glimpses of the Crazy Mountains, and enjoy a nice mix of winding roads and wide-open stretches.

Route:

• Start in Bozeman
• Take Highway 86 (Bridger Canyon Rd) north
• Pass through the Bridger Mountains
• Road drops you out just north of Wilsall
• Turn right on Highway 89 South
• Follow to I-90 West
• Take I-90 back to Bozeman

Total Time: 2 hours ish

Virginia City / BIG LOOP

If you are looking for a longer ride this one has rivers, historic Montana towns, and killer views.

Route:

• Head west on Norris Road (MT-84)
• Left on US-287 South toward Ennis
• In Ennis, take MT-287 toward Virginia City
• Continue on 287 through Nevada City to Twin Bridges
• From Twin Bridges, go straight onto MT-41, then keep straight on MT-55 to Whitehall
• From Whitehall, take MT-2 through Cardwell, cruising along the Jefferson River
• MT-2 intersects again with US-287
• Go left for I-90 and a quick ride back to Bozeman
• Or right to loop back through Norris

Total Time: 4-5 hours (depending on how long you hang out)

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Do you have a favorite loop or motorcycle day trip from Bozeman? Let us know HERE!