At the mouth of Bridger Canyon is the landmark “M” created by Montana State University students in 1915. There are two routes to the M from the trailhead—one steep, the other winding. To take the steep and direct ascent, go right at the first junction; for an easier and longer ascent, take a hard left. The easier route has a couple of different options, whether you want to scramble across rock or play it safe on maintained areas. This trail is close to Bozeman and very popular, for good reason: The views of the Gallatin Valley are spectacular, and hikers use the trail is as a lunch break loop or out-and-back.