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The newly updated GALLAGATOR Series has something for everyone with fresh colors, lightweight recycled materials, pocketed shoulder pads, and four sizes to choose from.
Offered in 10L, 15L, 20L, and 25L.
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
The naming of the GALLAGATOR pack was driven by a deliberate intent, aiming for a balance between the inherent fun of the name, rich local history, and its practical application in activities such as hiking, biking, and day trips.
The GALLAGATOR is a Bozeman city trail that occupies an old rail line that extended all the way to Gallatin Gateway. The rail line was named GALLAGATOR for its slow speed. Today, the trail itself is leisurely and great for a good day hike, run, bike, or an easy stroll. It’s good for beginners and casual hikers. And just like the trail, the GALLAGATOR series has excellent packs for all those things too. Fresh colors, lightweight recycled materials, pocketed shoulder pads, and four sizes to choose from, this pack will be your favorite for all your everyday needs.
History of the GALLAGATOR Trail
In 1908, local groups raised $800,000 to build an interurban train called Gallatin Valley Electric Railroad to take passengers, mail, and cargo from Bozeman to Salesville (now Gallatin Gateway).
The fare was 50 cents (what a deal!) and the 21.8-mile trip took about an hour each way. The line was soon purchased by the Milwaukee Railroad and a steam-powered engine was added. This slow-moving passenger train was dubbed the Gallagator by locals (it moved at an alligator’s pace). The last freight train rumbled by on this bed in 1978 and the name stuck when it was converted into a trail and linear park in 1988
Today, the Gallagator Trail begins at the Bozeman Public Library and ends on Kagy Boulevard at the Museum of the Rockies. An extension resumes on the other side of the museum and continues south for another mile.
Our nonprofit partner, @gvlt is currently working with partners to close two remaining gaps in the Gallagator.
Connecting the Gallagator Trail
Elin Hert, GVLT Development and Office Administrator
What does the Gallagator trail mean to you as a community member?
"The Gallagator Trail means so much to me! Over the years, it has been my go-to running trail, stroller-pushing trail, dog walking trail, bike commuter trail, and catch-up-walk-with-a-friend trail. It's also been host to our kids' favorite climbing tree, duck viewing area, climbing boulder, and, for our former water-loving lab, best in-town dog swimming hole. The trail's history, accessibility, and combination of shade, water, gardens, and fields make it a wonderful Bozeman icon!"
Justin Barth, GVLT Director of Development
What does the Gallagator trail mean to you as a community member?
“The Gallagator Trail is where I go when I need to remember why I love Bozeman. Although the trail starts downtown, it feels like you are miles away from busy Bozeman as you set out on this trail along the creek. It's hard to travel down the Gallagator without seeing a familiar friendly face.”
Cole Herdman, GVLT Conservation Program Manager – Park County
What does the Gallagator trail mean to you as a community member?
“Over the years the Gallagator has guided my commute to work, united friends on an afternoon walk, and been the quickest route to the Kagy Corner for some ice cream. Like the old rail line that it’s named after, a trip on the Gallagator reminds me to slow down and connect with the best parts of the Gallatin Valley – the kind folks and time spent outside.”
Crystal Beckman, GVLT Conservation Program Manager – Gallatin County
What does the Gallagator trail mean to you as a community member?
“The Gallagator Trail is my pathway to the shady trails of Graf Park, Sourdough Trail, and Tuckerman Park on a hot summer day. It is a neighborhood trail rooted in a sense of community. People can leave their homes and get on the trail to go to work, head towards Peets Hill with friends, or take a quick trip to the grocery store. It also is a safe route away from distracted drivers. The Gallagator Trail will take you where you want to go—south to the mountains, north to the mountains…whatever way you go, you can get to the mountains!”
Learn more about the work of the GVLT here.
The Gallagator Trail is leisurely and great for a good day hike, run, bike, or an easy stroll. And just like the trail, the GALLAGATOR Series has excellent packs for all those things, too.