Living in South Bozeman

South Bozeman covers the neighborhoods south of Montana State University, stretching from Kagy Boulevard toward the foothills of the Gallatin Range, heading west towards Gallatin Gateway. It's one of the most popular parts of town for people who want room to breathe without giving up an easy trip to downtown, Montana State University or Bozeman Health's Deaconess Hospital. Homes here range from 1970s ranch homes with mature trees in established neighborhoods like Hyalite Heights, Westridge and Sundance Springs as well as newer communities like Southbridge, Alder Creek and Blackwood Groves. There are also newer condos, townhomes and larger properties on acreage near the edge of town.

The proximity and natural setting is a big draw. Quiet residential streets give way to expansive mountain views with easy access to some of Bozeman's best-loved trails, some of which actually start and run near some of the neighborhoods.

Schools

South Bozeman is served by Bozeman Public Schools. Morning Star Elementary and Sacajawea Middle School sit right in neighborhoods:

High school students attend either Bozeman High School or Gallatin High School, depending on their address. Some South Bozeman addresses are assigned to other elementary schools, and the district has adjusted attendance boundaries as the city has grown. Always confirm the assigned schools for a specific address directly with Bozeman Public Schools before you buy.

Some homes in the farther southwest areas of town toward Cottonwood Road and Gallatin Gateway fall within the Anderson School District, a small, separate rural district that serves Pre-K through 8th grade at its welcoming modern campus on Cottonwood Road that also serves as a community hub. Here, high school students also attend either Bozeman High School or Gallatin High School, depending on their address.

Several private and Montessori schools also operate in and near South Bozeman.

Trails, Parks and the Outdoors

Bozeman's "Main Street to the Mountains" trail system runs right through South Bozeman:

• Gallagator Trail - connects downtown and Main Street to the south side of town, ending near Sacajawea Middle School.
• Sourdough Trail - a gravel path along Bozeman Creek running about 1.7 miles from Graf's Park to Goldenstein Lane, with parking at the south end.
• Peets Hill and Highland Glen Nature Preserve - views over town, singletrack for running and biking, and groomed cross-country ski trails in winter.
• Hyalite Canyon and Sourdough Canyon - a short drive south for hiking, fishing, camping and ice climbing, including the trail to Mystic Lake.

Getting Around

South 19th Avenue, South 3rd Avenue, Willson Avenue and Sourdough Road are the main routes between South Bozeman and the rest of town. Most neighborhoods are a few minutes from MSU and the Museum of the Rockies on Kagy Boulevard, and a short drive or bike ride from downtown.