Welcome back to Trail Talk, our series highlighting some of the best rides in and around Bozeman. This month, we’re exploring one of our favorite local trail systems for mellow climbs, flowy descents, and gorgeous Bridger views: Crosscut Mountain Sports Center.
Located just outside of town, Crosscut offers a growing summer trail system that’s ideal for beginner and intermediate riders looking to build confidence—or sneak in an after-work spin. If you liked our Top 5 Beginner Trails, you’re going to love this Crosscut-specific highlight.
Crosscut Mountain Sports Center Overview
Just 25 minutes from downtown Bozeman, Crosscut Mountain Sports Center is a year-round destination for outdoor adventure. It offers everything from Nordic skiing in winter to a growing network of mountain bike trails in summer. Tucked in the Bridger Range next to Bridger Bowl, Crosscut features a peaceful, low-traffic setting ideal for newer riders, families, and anyone looking for scenic, approachable singletrack.
The trails are primarily designed for Nordic ski training, so they tend to be wider, smoother, and more gently graded than typical Bozeman singletrack—perfect for building confidence or getting in a fast, fun fitness ride. The system is well-marked, loops are easy to follow, and the terrain ranges from mellow green routes to slightly more technical intermediate trails. While Crosscut doesn’t allow e-bikes or dogs during summer operations, it makes up for it with stellar views, quiet trails, and a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Learn more about Crosscut’s summer trail system or view up-to-date summer trail reports on Trailforks!
Image Credit: https://www.crosscutmt.org/
Image Credit: https://www.crosscutmt.org/
Image Credit: https://www.crosscutmt.org/
Quick Trail System Overview:
- Distance from Owenhouse Cycling: ~16 miles (~25-minute drive)
- Elevation Range: ~6,000 to 7,500 ft
- Trail Types: Multi-use loops
- Trail Directions: Mostly bi-directional, with counterclockwise suggested
- Family Friendly: Yes
- Dog Friendly: Yes
- eBikes Allowed: Yes, except on Forest Service / Logger’s Trail
- Activities: MTB, hiking, trail running, biathlon training
Trail Map: View Summer Trails Map
Crosscut’s Beginner-Friendly Bike Trails
Warming Shelter Loop
Beginner | 3.2 km / 2.0 miles | 216 ft total elevation
- What to Expect: A scenic, true loop perfect for newer riders or families with kids. This ride winds through forested singletrack and open meadows with creekside views.
- Bonus Feature: Detour to the Skills Park for optional pump track, skinnies, wooden drops, and more—great for playful sessions or building confidence.
Why We Love It: It’s chill, scenic, and flowy with a fun finish through Ewok Forest South.
Downey’s and Out
Beginner–Intermediate | 5.3 km / 3.3 miles | 410 ft total elevation
- What to Expect: Starts with the same mellow climb as Warming Shelter Loop, then branches onto Downey’s for twisty singletrack with small roots and a few mild tech features.
- Best Moments: Yoda’s Return—a downhill fan-favorite filled with flowy berms and optional stump jumps.
- Why We Love It: A perfect step up for progressing riders who want more speed and skill-building.
Crosscut’s Intermediate Trails For Riders Who Want a Little More
Crosscut Figure 8
Intermediate | 6.9 km / 4.3 miles | 590 ft total elevation
- What to Expect: This is a sweat-worthy loop that blends climbing and descending with fast corners and rolling terrain. It includes a mix of Ewok Forest, Downey’s, Northwest Passage, and Loggers.
- Best Moments: Scenic creekside pedaling, quick transitions between forest zones, and a rewarding final descent down Yoda’s Return.
- Why We Love It: It’s the perfect “after work ride” with just enough challenge to get your heart rate up—and your stoke high.
Flow Trail Loop
Intermediate | 7.4 km / 4.6 miles | 860 ft total elevation
- What to Expect: A one-way loop designed for flow and progression. You’ll climb steadily on What Goes Up before dropping into Must Come Down—a purpose-built descent filled with berms, rollers, and smooth corners.
- Best Moments: Sweeping Bridger views from the top, back-to-back corners on the descent, and a final send down Yoda’s Return.
Why We Love It: It’s one of the best loops for building confidence with speed and cornering—plus the climb earns you a full-on, grin-inducing descent.
Crosscut and Bridger Figure 8
Intermediate | 21.2 km / 13.2 miles | 2,560 ft total elevation
- What to Expect: A big half-day ride that connects the best of Crosscut and the lower Bridger trail system. Expect steady climbing, open meadows, creekside singletrack, and lots of switchbacks.
- Best Moments: Linking Good Clean Fun and Bridger North, the punchy return via What Goes Up, and the payoff flow on Must Come Down and Yoda’s Return.
- Why We Love It: It’s a long but doable adventure with varied terrain—perfect for riders looking to go farther without stepping into full expert territory.
Our Favorite Expert Bike Trail Starting at Crosscut Mountain Sports Center
H3: Bridger Loop from Crosscut
Expert | 53.6 km / 33.3 miles | 6,250 ft total elevation
- What to Expect: An all-day epic through Crosscut and deep into the Bridger Range. This route connects Brackett Creek, Fairy Lake, Shafthouse, Ross Pass, and East Bridger North, with lots of climbing and limited bailout options.
- Best Moments: Remote singletrack, massive alpine views, and the satisfying feeling of conquering one of the longest MTB loops near Bozeman.
Why We Love It: It’s the kind of ride that leaves your legs toast and your soul full. A true test piece for local riders looking to go big.
Image Credit: https://www.crosscutmt.org/
Gear Up: What to Ride at Crosscut
Because Crosscut’s terrain is mostly cross-country or light trail, we recommend bikes that climb well but still offer a fun ride on the descent. Here are a few of our favorite options—all available to rent from Owenhouse Cycling right here in Bozeman:
- Giant Fathom – An aluminum hardtail that’s perfect for smoother trails and newer riders. Affordable, capable, and fun to ride.
- Santa Cruz Blur or Tallboy – Lightweight full suspension bikes ideal for XC and light trail with a touch of playful energy.
- Rocky Mountain Element – A sharp, all-day trail bike for those tackling longer loops or more challenging climbs.
Need help picking the right ride? Stop by the shop and we’ll match you up with the perfect rig for your Crosscut adventure.
Image Credit: https://www.crosscutmt.org/
Getting to Crosscut
Crosscut is located just 17 miles from Bozeman up Bridger Canyon. Click to view maps and location information.
Visit Owenhouse Cycling Today
With well-marked loops, killer views, and new trail expansions in the works, Crosscut is an awesome place to ride this summer, whether you’re just getting started or looking to crank out some miles.
Visit Owenhouse Cycling today to get your gear dialed, chat trails with our team, or rent a bike in Bozeman.
Be sure to follow us on social media (Facebook & Instagram) for more trail insights, tips, and stories. Explore Mystic Lake and share your experiences by tagging us on social media! Let us know which trail you’d like us to review next! Happy riding!
