Car Rental Bozeman

Bozeman might be one of Montana’s biggest cities, but it still has an intimate, local feel. Nestled among the Rocky Mountains, driving round here is a real treat here, especially as you make your way through the wild landscape, snow-dusted mountains and lush forests. 

An easy to navigate grid system directs you around Bozeman’s centre, with Routes 191 and 86 the main access roads. It’s also connected to surrounding towns and cities by the I-90, the major route running through the state. Follow I-90 east and you’ll reach Billings, around 220km away. From there, you can continue south into Wyoming or west to Missoula, and Spokane just over the Washington border.

If you’re heading to Yellowstone National Park from Bozeman, take Route 191 to reach the west entrance to the park, or Route 89 leading south from I-90 to arrive at the north entrance. Make sure you plan your route in advance as the north entrance is the only one open to vehicles all year round. Glacier National Park is around four hours north of Bozeman along Route 89, with the state capital Helena just under two hours away on the I-90 and Route 287.

Montana is one of the most sparsely populated states - so when you’re on the road you might not encounter many other cars, although routes in and around Yellowstone and Glacier National Park do get busy during the summer season.

Like the rest of the US, drivers in Bozeman use the right-hand side of the road. All drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts, and children aged six and under must use a child car safety seat. The speed limit on rural interstates is generally 75mph (120km/h) but on some stretches this increases to 80mph (128km/h). 

Hidden away from the world’s gaze in peaceful Montana, Bozeman is a secret mountain escape. Venture here to unlock the magic of the wilderness and embrace the thriving local arts scene.

City culture

While the glorious outdoors are what draws most people here on vacation, Bozeman itself has its fair share of cultural attractions.  The renowned Museum of the Rockies is home to one of the world’s biggest collection of dinosaur bones - all discovered in and around Montana, including the largest Tyrannosaurus skull ever found.

For something completely different, head to the American Computer and Robotics Museum, which features a fascinating look back at the history of technology. You can see one of the computers used on the Apollo Mission and other artefacts such as the Apple I – a hand-built computer and the first ever Apple product.

Don’t miss the Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture either, where you’ll find three galleries exhibiting contemporary art works from Montana and beyond. For classical music fans, catching a concert at the Bozeman Symphony is a real must.

Hit the slopes

Experience the pristine powder of Montana with a trip to one of the nearby ski resorts - Bozeman is close to both Bridger Bowl and Big Sky Resort.

Big Sky Resort is the larger of the two, with 5,850 acres of slopes to be explored. Strap on your skis or snowboard, and whiz down the magnificent slopes. There’s a fantastic mix of green, blue and black runs, so there’s something to suit all abilities.

Bridger Bowl may not be as big, but it’s certainly unique – this non-profit resort offers a family-friendly experience, with varied terrains to suit all ages. There’s a dedicated beginners’ area, while those with more experience can head for Powder Park or, for real seasoned pros, the Ridge. If you don’t want to hit the powder, simply sit inside with a hot drink and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

Wild at heart

America’s oldest national park, Yellowstone, is a vast and varied landscape, filled with incredible wildlife. Most of Yellowstone is situated in the neighbouring state of Wyoming, but from Bozeman it’s easy to reach the north entrance at Gardiner or the west entrance at West Yellowstone.

The West Entrance takes you along the majestic Madison River, perfect for fishing, white-water rafting and kayaking. This entrance is also the closest to Old Faithful, the park’s famous geyser that erupts several times a day. Yellowstone Lake is also close by.

If you arrive in the park from the North Entrance, you’ll pass through Paradise Valley and the iconic Roosevelt Arch, with its cornerstone laid in 1903 by Roosevelt himself. You can also visit Mammoth Hot Springs, the Boiling River or spot wildlife in the Lamar Valley.

Experience the park as a day trip, an overnight stay or spend a few days winding through its wild landscapes before returning to the city.

With Bozeman car rental, you can experience all of this and more at your own pace. Book now with Hertz.