We’re back with our new series: Trail Talk with Owenhouse Cycling! Get pumped for a firsthand look at the trails we’ve discovered and the insights we’ve gained along the way.
No matter if you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, this series will provide you with valuable information and inspiration for your next biking adventure. We’ll give you detailed descriptions of local trails, break down their difficulty levels, and share reviews from our own team members.
Last month we featured Peets Hill at Burke Park, a trail within riding distance from the shop! This month we’re featuring Truman Gluch. It’s located about 30 minutes north of town, with a 5/5 rating from a few on the team! Let’s jump right in.
Trail Overview: Truman Gulch
- Distance: 4 miles round trip for the main Truman Gulch trail.
- Elevation Gain: 1,035 ft
- Distance from Owenhouse Cycling: 30-minute drive
- Activities: Mountain Bike, Horse, Hike, Trail Running, Dirtbike/Moto & E-Bikes allowed June 16th – Oct 14 only.
- Trail Type: Single Track
- Direction: Both Directions
- Dog Friendly: Yes
- eBike Allowed: Yes! June 16th – Oct 14th
Truman Gulch is a fun and flowy singletrack intermediate trail in the Bridger Range, an easy 30-minute drive north of Bozeman. From the trailhead, the first two miles are a steady climb through a green forest next to a small creek. At the two mile mark, you can turn back down and enjoy classic singletrack with fun natural features.
Truman Gulch Upper
If you’re looking for a few more miles, the other option is to keep going to the upper section. Truman Gulch Upper is steeper and rockier than the first section. It turns from a blue intermediate trail into a black advanced trail. This part of the trail has steeper switchbacks and loose rock sections. All worth the fun if you are looking for some more riding!
- Distance: Just under 1 mile (5030 ft)
- Elevation Gain: 607 ft
- Trail Type: Single Track
- Direction: Both Directions
- Level: Black (Advanced)
- Dog Friendly: Yes
Truman Gulch trail has a bit of riding for any rider from smooth flow singletrack in the first half to technical riding in the upper section.
Trailhead Map:
The trailhead has a parking area and a horse loading ramp for your convenience. Note there is no water at the trailhead and no public restrooms.
For easy navigation, follow these directions:
- Start in Bozeman and drive 2 miles north on 7th Avenue (West Frontage Road) until you reach Springhill Road.
- At the traffic light, turn right onto Springhill Road.
- Proceed north on Springhill Road and travel for 8.5 miles.
- Look for Springhill Community Road on your right, with a sign indicating Truman Gulch.
- Turn right onto Springhill Community Road and continue for 1.6 miles.
- Keep an eye out for Springhill Church at the corner.
- Turn right and drive for 1.1 miles until you reach Forswell Road on your left.
- Continue along Forswell Road for 3 miles until you reach the trailhead at the end of the road.
Difficulty Level:
Truman Gulch is rated an Intermediate/Blue trail. Its a moderately challenging route with a steady climb and a few shorter, steep sections. Truman Gulch Upper is rated an Advanced/Black trail. You’ll find steeper switchbacks and loose rocks on the upper section.
Team Member Reviews: Truman Gulch
The Owenhouse team rated this trail out of 1-5 based on how enjoyable the ride is, with 5 being very enjoyable! It’s safe to say that we’ve all enjoyed our fair share of rides on Truman Gulch!
- Tom: 4
- Eric Z:
- Anna: 5!! I love this trail!
- Tristan: 3.5
- Joey: 3.75
- Ollie: 4
- Robert: 5!
- Jamie: 3.5
Gear and Equipment Recommendations:
Team Member Name: Robert
Team Member Bike: Santa Cruz Tallboy
The Santa Cruz Tallboy is perfect for Truman Gulch. Known as “The Downhiller’s XC Bike,” it’s our team’s go-to bike. It performs great for hot laps after work and long days in the saddle. Don’t be deceived by the 120mm of travel – it’s an efficient XC bike with way more capability than 120 mm would suggest.
Other options we like are the Ibis Ripley and Rocky Mountain Element! All 3 bikes climb great and inspire confidence in the descent!
As always, don’t forget your:
- Helmet
- Water
- Bear spray
- Sunglasses
- Snacks! We love snacks.
Truman Gulch is a great trail with a reasonable climb that has a few short, steep sections to get the heart pumping. It’s all worth the effort once you turn around!! You can easily add on more miles and tech by hitting Truman Gulch Upper. An Owenhouse team favorite! Bonus, these trails drain quickly after a summer rain!
Did you enjoy this trail review? You can expect more of these in the future! We had a blast chatting with the team, asking for reviews and their thoughts!
Let’s connect! Drop us a comment on our social channels with suggestions for the next trail you’d like us to review. Keep ridin’, and we’ll see you on the trail!
If you’re looking to rent a bike to ride around Bozeman or want to invest in a new one, Owenhouse Cycling is your go-to!
