Carrying Bear Spray on the M Trail in Bozeman
- Zach
- Jan 14
- 2 min read
Updated: 25 minutes ago

The M Trail (or College M Trail) in Bozeman is a steep, short hike leading to the iconic "M" on the mountainside, offering stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Why Carry Bear Spray: Even though it's close to urban areas, bears have been sighted here, particularly during less busy times. The M Trail (and the Bridger Mountain range in general) tends to have Black bears, not Grizzlies. However, we have heard first hand accounts of people in the Gallatin Valley sustaining severe injuries from Black bears, so we strongly recommend carrying bear spray and/or alternative personal safety options (check out: Bear Spray vs. Bullets: Why Your Gun Might Not Save You in a Bear Attack).
Bear spray, when readily accessible (HUGE caveat), has proven effective in deterring bears, providing you with a critical layer of safety and more confidence when exploring.
How to Use Bear Spray: Before setting foot on the trail, ensure your bear spray is in a holster such as the Quick Clip Pro to give you immediate access to your bear spray. Simply tossing your bear spray into a backpack will not keep you safe in many situations. Speed means safety in bear country.
Familiarize yourself with its operation - remove the safety clip, aim slightly downward about 30 feet in front of you if a bear charges, and spray in short bursts to create a deterrent cloud. Practicing with an inert canister beforehand can be invaluable.
Where to Get It: Bear spray can be purchased (see our Bear Bundle) or rented at local Bozeman retailers, ensuring you're prepared for your hike. Remember, aerosol cans like bear spray are not allowed on flights, so plan to acquire it once you arrive in Bozeman or shipped ahead if you are driving.
Trail Tips: Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears, travel in groups if possible, and keep pets leashed. The M Trail, while popular and well-maintained, still requires vigilance. The presence of bears in the area is a reminder to respect wildlife and take necessary precautions.
The M Trail's popularity doesn't diminish the potential for bear encounters, especially at dawn or dusk when bears are more active.
-- Bear Tac built a bear spray backpack holster that’s lightning-fast, dead simple, and rock-solid secure. Trust us, it's the ultimate bear spray carrier out there. So get out there and explore confidently, knowing your bear spray is right where you need it, when you need it.
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