The Ultimate Guide to Ziplining in Bozeman, Montana
So, you’re thinking about ziplining in Bozeman, Montana? First of all—excellent choice, my thrill-seeking friend. I’m already high-fiving you through the screen.
If you’ve ever wanted to soar like a bird (or at least like a very excited human attached to a very secure cable), Bozeman is the place to do it. I’ve zipped, zoomed, and whooped my way through these treetop adventures more times than I care to admit—and I’m here to spill the beans on the best spots, what to expect, and how not to embarrass yourself mid-zip (although I’ve done that too, so no judgment).
Why Bozeman Is a Ziplining Paradise
Bozeman isn’t just famous for its outdoorsy charm and being ridiculously photogenic—it’s also packed with adventure. The mountains? Gorgeous. The air? Fresh. The ziplining? Chef’s kiss.
Ziplining here isn’t just about getting from point A to point B at warp speed while yelling your lungs out—it’s about taking in the view, testing your nerves (in a fun way), and probably laughing until your stomach hurts.
The Best Places to Go Ziplining Near Bozeman (AKA Where I Squealed Like a Happy Squirrel)
1. Montana Whitewater – Gallatin Canyon Zipline
Distance: About 45 minutes from Bozeman
Vibe: River views, forest canopies, and enough excitement to make your knees feel a little wobbly (in the best way)
This spot is a classic, and honestly, it’s a great first stop if you’re ready to go full Tarzan. You’ll be ziplining across the Gallatin River, through tall pines, and over that kind of wild Montana terrain that looks straight out of a National Geographic documentary.
And get this—they offer zip-and-dip packages. That’s ziplining + whitewater rafting. Yep, you can fly through the trees in the morning and crash through waves in the afternoon. Talk about living your best adventurous life.
Pro Tip: The guides are hilarious and super pro. Listen to them. They’ll keep you safe, and they’ll probably tell you stories about the guy who zipped backward by accident. (Spoiler: it was me.)
2. Big Sky Resort Zipline Tours
Distance: About 1 hour from Bozeman
Vibe: Epic mountain views, high-flying fun, and the occasional “Wow, are we still on Earth?”
Big Sky is famous for skiing, but the ziplining here? It’s next-level. You can choose between the Nature Zipline Tour (chill and scenic) or the Adventure Tour (aka “hold on to your butt”).
I tried the Adventure Tour, and I swear I had an out-of-body experience on the third zip. The views were insane—snowy peaks, deep valleys, and about 10 shades of green all around. It’s like Mother Nature said, “Let me flex real quick.”
Note: The elevation is no joke. If you’re from sea level, don’t try to be a hero. Take breaks, drink water, and breathe like a wise mountain goat.
3. Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park (Gardiner)
Distance: Around 1.5 hours from Bozeman
Vibe: Family-friendly fun, obstacle courses, and zero bears (don’t worry)
If you’re headed to Yellowstone, this is the perfect pit stop. It’s not just a zipline—it’s an adventure park! They’ve got ziplines, rope bridges, a bungee trampoline (yes, it’s as fun as it sounds), and even a climbing wall.
I brought my niece and nephew here, and let me tell you—they left feeling like superheroes. And I left feeling like I’d pulled a muscle in my laugh muscle. Win-win.
Parent Hack: The kids can run wild here, and there’s plenty for adults too. Plus, you get major cool points for doing something way more exciting than sitting in the car.
Best Time to Zipline in Bozeman
Unless you enjoy zipping through snow like a popsicle on a string (no judgment), you’ll want to stick to the May through September window.
- Spring (May–June): Flowers, green trees, and fewer crowds. Perfect for a peaceful thrill.
- Summer (July–August): Peak zip season! The weather’s warm, and everything’s in full swing.
- Fall (September): Fewer tourists and autumn colors that look like a Bob Ross painting.
Winter ziplining? Not really a thing here. But hey—go ski, and scream down the slopes instead.
What Ziplining in Bozeman is Actually Like (Spoiler: It’s Awesome)
So what’s the deal? You show up, sign a waiver (don’t worry, everyone survives), and get suited up like a tree-climbing superhero.
Here’s how it usually goes:
- Harness Up – You’ll be snug in a full-body harness that’s not flattering, but very functional. Safety > Style.
- Safety Chat – Listen up! You’ll learn how to brake, how not to spin uncontrollably, and why screaming is optional but encouraged.
- A Little Hiking – Nothing wild, but enough to remind you that you should have stretched this morning.
- Flight Time – Once you take that first step off the platform… it’s pure magic. Wind in your hair, trees zooming below, and that “I’m alive!” rush.
Caution: You may feel cooler than you actually look. But hey, that’s part of the fun.
Who Can Go?
Most places are super inclusive, with just a few limits:
- Ages: Usually 5 or 6 and up
- Weight: Generally between 50–260 lbs
- Fitness Level: If you can climb a flight of stairs and stand for a while, you’re good!
What to Pack (AKA Stuff I Forgot the First Time)
✅ Closed-toe shoes
✅ Sunglasses with a strap (unless you want them donated to the forest)
✅ Sunscreen
✅ Water bottle
✅ Layers (it can go from warm to breezy real fast)
✅ GoPro or phone for epic footage (check with the operator first)
Refuel After the Ride
Let’s be honest—you’re going to be starving after zipping around like a superhero. Here’s where I like to crash (and eat everything in sight):
- Roost Fried Chicken – Crispy, juicy, and probably what dreams are made of
- Montana Ale Works – Burgers + local brews = happy adventurer
- Treeline Coffee Roasters – For your “I need caffeine after all that adrenaline” moment
Optional: Soak Your Wobbly Legs
Hit up Bozeman Hot Springs after your adventure. Your legs will thank you. Your soul will thank you. Honestly, even your future self will thank you.
Final Thoughts (and a Slightly Embarrassing Story)
Listen, I’ve zipped backward, almost lost a shoe mid-air, and once got stuck halfway across a line because I braked too early (don’t be like me). But every single time, I ended up with a grin stretched across my face and a heart full of high-altitude joy.
Ziplining in Bozeman is not just a thrill—it’s a memory-maker. It’s where the wild meets the fun, and where even the scaredy-cats end up saying, “Let’s do that again!”
So go on—embrace the helmet hair, scream your heart out, and let Montana show you how to fly (with cables, of course).
