Big Sky (open seasonally) 100 Beaverhead Trail, Bozeman, MT 59718
Bozeman - Main Street 1006 West Main Street, Bozeman, MT 59715
WELCOME
TO MONTANA!
Summers in Montana are unparalleled. When the snow starts to melt and the days get longer, the Gallatin Valley comes to life. The wildflowers, the river, the lakes and mountains are all bursting with activity, and both residents and locals are excited and anxious to get outdoors and experience new adventures. With all that is waiting to be explored, who would want to stay indoors?
There’s no shortage of things to do during a Montana summer, with water sports, mountain biking, hiking, biking, camping galore — you name it. Pristine, glacial-fed lakes are just waiting for you to take a dip, and world-class rivers abound for all things fly fishing, rafting, kayaking and more. More than 30% of our state is public land, and we like to take full advantage of that.
In addition to being an outdoor lovers’ paradise, Montana has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, museums, theater, ballet, comedy and great live music. Everyone’s tastes are welcome here — you can see a symphony perform classical pieces or check out a comedy club on the same night as a local punk band plays at a neighborhood bar.
Whether you’re enjoying an outdoor concert on the Emerson Lawn, sipping a delicious brew at one of Bozeman’s many breweries or swinging down to Yellowstone for the weekend, we’re sure you’ll love everything our town has to offer. Bozeman starts buzzing in the summer and there’s a little something for everyone here.
So what will it be? A fun day touring Museum of the Rockies, a fancy cocktail at PLONK, a tour of Lewis and Clark Caverns or a trek on one of the hundreds of miles of hiking trails just a stone’s throw away from Bozeman? We have it all.
Many miles of rivers, streams, trails and backroads await you. Let this publication be a guide for your trip to the Big Sky, wherever your journey might take you. We’re thrilled you’ve chosen our little corner of the country as your vacation destination, and we think you’ll like what you see.
With all there is to explore, why not stay a while?
“WITH EVERY WALK IN NATURE ONE RECEIVES FAR MORE THAN HE SEEKS.”
- JOHN MUIR
RIVERS AND STREAMS
Home to world-class streams and rivers, it’s no secret that Montana is a fisherman’s paradise. We landed a spot on the map with the film “A River Runs Through It,” starring Brad Pitt, but Montana has always been a great place to pull out your rod and tacklebox and hit the river. Whether you’re new to watersports or a seasoned angler, there are plenty of resources to make your trip memorable. When looking for information, it’s best to start with the local shops, which are plentifiul in fishing areas. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has a guide to rules and regulations and so much more at fwp. mt.gov/fish. More information on the sport can be found from Fly Fishers International in Livingston, which hosts several events throughout the summer. Check its website at flyfishersinternational.org for event updates, fishing tutorials and general information.
GALLATIN RIVER
You might recognize this iconic river from scenes in “A River Runs Through It,” as parts of the movie were filmed here. It originates in Yellowstone National Park and flows past Big Sky through the Gallatin Canyon as it winds its way to the Gallatin Valley. Though trout tend to be smaller on the Gallatin than on some of Montana’s other rivers, it’s hard to beat the scenery of the canyon. Following are some local shops and guides. Shops might offer services like delivery and curbside pickup, and we recommend calling ahead if you’re interested in that service.
• The River’s Edge , 612 E. Main St. & 59 North S tar Ln., Bozeman, theriversedge.com
• Bozeman Fly Supply , 2621 W. College St. Bozeman, bozemanflysupply.com
• Montana Troutfitters , 1716 W. Main St., Bozeman, troutfitters. com
• Montana Angler , 435 East Main St., Bozeman, montanaangler.com
• Fins & Feathers , 81801 Gallatin Road, Bozeman, finsandfeathersonline.com
• Big Sky Anglers , 39 Madison Ave., W est Yellowstone, bigskyanglers.com
MADISON RIVER
Known for its large populations of rainbow and brown trout, the Madison River is a Montana favorite. There is good access for both waders and boaters, and the Upper Madison, upstream from Ennis Lake, has large stretches of catch-and-release fishing. Below the lake, the Madison flows through the scenic Bear Trap Canyon and onto the confluence of the Missouri River. Spring and fall are the best seasons to fish here.
• Madison River Fishing Company , 109 E. Main S t., Ennis, www.mrfc.com
• Hooked Outfitting , Ennis, hookedoutfitting.com
• Trout Stalkers , 301 E. Main St., Ennis, montanatrout.com
YELLOWSTONE RIVER
Running out of Yellowstone National Park, north through Paradise Valley to Livingston and then following I-90 to Billings and beyond, the Yellowstone River provides access to some fantastic fishing spots that won’t disappoint. Some of the best of the river is in the Paradise Valley, and we recommend getting advice at local shops, where you’ll be sure to get all the best gear, location tips and guides.
• Dan Bailey’s , 209 W. Park St., Livingston, danbaileys.com
• Angler’s West , 206 Railroad Lane, Emigrant, montanaflyfishers.com
BLACKFOOT RIVER
If you want to see the river that inspired Maclean’s Masterpiece, be sure and spend some time on the Blackfoot River. One of the finest rivers in all Montana, it features breathtaking scenery and is fed by snow and springs formed northeast of Lincoln and joins with the Clark Fork River about five miles
from Missoula. Check out a few local shops:
• The Missoulian Angler Fly Shop , 802 S. Higgins Ave., Missoula, missoulianangler.com
• Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop , 215 W. Front St., Missoula, grizzlyhackle.com
• Blackfoot River Outfitters , 275 N. Russell St., Missoula, blackfootriver.com
MISSOURI RIVER
The Missouri River might be the origin of every fisherman’s big fish story. And while the Missouri stretches more than 2,000 miles before it reaches the Mississippi, trout fishers travel from all over to fish along the 35-mile tailwater section below Holter Dam near the towns of Wolf Creek, Craig and Cascade. Some of the biggest fish in the state come from the river, from trout to carp.
• Trout Montana , 132 First St. N., Cascade, troutmontana.com
• Prewett Creek Inn & Fly Shop , 2468 Old U.S. Highway 91, Craig, prewettcreekinn.com
• Wolf Creek Angler , 515 Recreation Road, Wolf Creek, wolfcreekangler.com
BEAVERHEAD AND BIG HOLE RIVER
Any fisherman is sure to love the Beaverhead River. “The Big Hole River is a majestic and dynamic freestone river that flows more than 150 miles from its headwaters near Jackson, MT to its confluence with the Beaverhead River and Ruby River to create the Jefferson River,” Sunrise Fly Shop writes on its website (sunriseflyshop.com.) Much of the Beaverhead runs through private land, but once you make it to the river, you’ll find trophy size brown and native brown trout. North of the Beaverhead is the Big Hole River. The Big Hole is home to trout fishing as well as the last river-dwelling arctic grayling in the lower 48 states. The home of these and other rivers south of Butte is dotted with fly shops, outfitters and lodges. While in the area, be sure and check out the R.L. Winston Rod Co., at 500 S. Main St. in Twin Bridges. Founders Robert Winther and Lew Stoner combined their names to name their hollow flute bamboo fishing rod company after founding it in San Francisco in 1929. You can find more information at winstonrods.com. Here are a few other fly shops in the area:
• Frontier Anglers , 680 N. Montana St., Dillon, frontieranglers.com
• Stonefly Outfitters , 409 N. Main St., Twin Bridges, stoneflyoutfitters.com
FIRST PEOPLES
Throughout history, many tribes have used the Gallatin Valley as fishing or hunting grounds or as a path toward Yellowstone. Today, Montana has seven reservations and an additional federally recognized tribe. Each maintains many tribal traditions, with several celebrations that are open to the public.
BLACKFEET TRIBE OF THE BLACKFEET RESERVATION
The Blackfeet Reservation is one of the largest in the U.S., spanning 1.5 million acres in northwest Montana, bordered by Glacier National Park to the west and Canada to the north. Heart Butte Indian Days is usually held in mid-August at the base of Heart Butte, 26 miles south of Browning. More information and updates can be found at https://www.facebook.com/HBNDNDays/.
CHIPPEWA CREE TRIBE OF ROCKY BOY MONTANA RESERVATION
Located on the Rocky Boy Montana Reservation, a powwow will be held, Aug. 1-4, at the base of the Bear Paw Mountains. It is the largest event hosted by the Chippewa Cree Tribe and features $400,000 in cash and prizes for its spectacular singing and dancing competitions. It’s located at Agency Road and Clearview in Rocky Boy. For event updates, check https://www. facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090639413991.
CONFEDERATED SALISH & KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION
The Flathead Indian Reservation is home to three tribes, the Bitterroot Salish, Upper Pend d’Oreille and the Kootenai. The Annual Arlee Powwow Esyapqeyni (Celebration) is the premier annual celebration of the Salish and Pend d’Oreilles tribes, normally held at the Arlee Powwow Grounds in Arlee. Sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Nation it features traditional dance competitions, singing and drumming and a big July 4 parade. For more information, visit csktribes. org.
CROW NATION
The Crow Reservation is in southcentral Montana, bordered by Wyoming on the south, with its northwestern boundary about 10 miles from Billings. This tribe was called “Apsaalooke,” which means “children of the largebeaked bird.” White men later misinterpreted the word as “crow.” The tribe usually holds its Crow Fair in August. For more information, visit http://www.crow-nsn.gov/.
FORT BELKNAP TRIBES OF THE FORT BELKNAP RESERVATION
Fort Belknap Indian Reservation in north central Montana is home to the Gros Ventre (Aani) and the Assiniboine (Nakoda) tribes. Established in 1888, the reservation is what remains of the vast ancestral territory of the Blackfeet and Assiniboine Nations. Normally, it hosts a variety of powwows throughout the summer and fall. For more information on future events, visit ftbelknap.org.
FORT PECK TRIBES OF THE FORT PECK RESERVATION
The For t Pe ck Indian Reservation in northeast Montana is home to several bands of Assiniboine, Nakota, Lakota and Dakota peoples of Native Americans. The reservation spans four counties. Annual celebrations usually include Red Bottom Celebration and Badlands Celebration in June, Fort Kipp Celebration in July, Wadopana Celebration in August and Poplar Indian Days in September. For more information on the tribe, visit fortpecktribes.org.
NORTHERN CHEYENNE TRIBE OF THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE INDIAN RESERVATION
The Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation is in presentday southeastern Montana and is about 444,0 00 acres in size with 99% tribal ownership. There are about 12,266 tribal members with about 6,000 residing on the reservation. It normally hosts the Northern Cheyenne Powwow. For more information, visit cheyennenation. com.
DINOSAURS
Montana has lots of bones — big ones. Paleontology is an important part of the state’s history, as the world’s first identified T. rex was found by paleontologist Barnum Brown in the Hell Creek area near Jordan almost 120 years ago. And the first identifiable dinosaur remains were found in the state about 50 years before that. Montana is proud of its paleontological past, and there is a network of museums across the state for those interested in learning more about what kind of creatures roamed across our landscape a few million years ago. The 14-stop Montana Dinosaur Trail stretches all the way from Ekalaka in the east to Bynum and Choteau in the northwest. There are several Dinosaur Trail facilities that offer public paleontology field dig opportunities: The Montana Dinosaur Center, Great Plains Dinosaur Museum, Garfield County Museum and the Carter County Museum. Find more information at mtdinotrail.org.
County Museum. The museum has an exhibit where you can handle some fossils yourself. Judith River Formation fossils including Hadrosaur, Gorgosaurus and Edmontonia and huge marine reptiles Mosasaur and Plesiosaur are the focus of the museum’s paleontology exhibit.
CARTER COUNTY MUSEUM
306 N. Main St., Ekalaka cartercountymuseum.org
MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES
You can’t leave Bozeman without going to the Museum of the Rockies at 600 W. Kagy Blvd. A must-see, it’s home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils — about 35,000 — including the largest collection of Tyrannosaurus and Triceratops, along with America’s largest collection of dinosaur eggs, embryos and babies. Dr. John Scannella is the John R. Horner Curator of Paleontology here, continuing the museum’s commitment to studying the fascinating creatures that lived here millions of years ago. The museum is open year-round. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are not required but are encouraged. Call 406-994-2251 or visit museumoftherockies.org for the most up-to-date information
OTHER STOPS ON THE DINO TRAIL:
BLAINE COUNTY MUSEUM
501 Indiana St., Chinook blainecountymuseum.com
Get a hands-on dinosaur experience at Blaine
Visit during Carter County Museum’s twelfth annual Dino Shindig on July 27 to July 28. A fun activity if you’ve got kids, the event features talks by leading paleontologists, kids activities, music and dancing and a field expedition. Be sure and check out the museum’s Lambert Room, which has a skeleton of the duckbill dinosaur Anatotitan copei (one of a few nearly complete specimens of its kind) and a complete triceratops skull.
A tiny museum, the Depot has an impressive display of Maiasaura, Troodon, Tarasauraus and Gryposaurus in collaboration with Museum of the Rockies.
FORT PECK INTERPRETIVE CENTER
Lower Yellowstone Road, Fort Peck https://www.fws.gov/refuge/charles-m-russell/fortpeck-interpretive-center
Fort Peck Interpretive Center lies in the shadow of the Fort Peck Dam, housing “Peck’s Rex,” one of the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever found. The exhibit hall displays a full-size skeleton cast.
FRONTIER GATEWAY MUSEUM
201 State St., Glendive frontiergatewaymuseum.org
Go meet “Margie,” the Struthiomimus found near Glendive in the early 1990s at Frontier Gateway Museum in Dawson County, in the heart of the Hell Creek Formation. Some of Margie’s friends
include fossils from Stegoceras, Triceratops, Thescelosaurus and hadrosaurs.
GARFIELD COUNTY MUSEUM
952 Jordan Ave., Jordan mtdinotrail.org/garfield-county-museum/ Paleontology nerds flock here. The cretaceous sediments found in badlands along the Missouri River are home to some of the first and most important fossil finds in modern history. It’s home to the Hell Creek Formation and has made major contributions to the record, including the first ever identified T. rex. It houses skulls of a T. rex and Stygimoloch and a full-size Triceratops cast.
GREAT PLAINS DINOSAUR MUSEUM
405 N. First St. E., Malta greatplainsdinosaurs.org
Visit the Great Plains Dinosaur Museum to check out its Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Camarasaurus, a horned dinosaur called Maltaceratops, a new and unnamed species of raptor dinosaur and several remarkably preserved Hadrosaurs (duck-billed dinosaurs.)
H. EARL CLACK MUSEUM
discovered in Makoshika. Significant discoveries include a complete Triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex, and a nearly complete skeleton of the rare Thesdelosaur.
OLD TRAIL MUSEUM
823 N. Main Ave. N., Choteau oldtrailmuseum.org
In the main building, the Dinosaurs of the Two Medicine Paleontology Gallery contains a life-size Maiasaura (the Montana State Fossil) along with a mural of the natural environment by local artist Jim Utsler. Exhibits include Maiasaura and Einosaurus skulls, nestling, hatchling and adult Maiasaura skeletons and bones, and a Sauronotholestes skeleton cast.
See where dinosaur life began and view 75-million-year-old dinosaur eggs and embryos found in local exposures of the Judith River Formation. Also check out a skull cast of the rare Stygimoloch (a species of Pachycephalosaur) and an Albertosaurus head mask.
Boogie with Elvis (the dinosaur, that is) at Phillips County Museum. The 33-foot-long Brachylophosaurus is 95% complete and one of the best articulated skeletons ever found. At the museum, a 700-pound femur of an Apatosaurus and a Tylosaur jaw bone can also be found.
120 Second Ave. S., Bynum tmdinosaurcenter.org
Head a little southeast of Glendive and you’ll find Makoshika State Park, which houses a Triceratops skull and other badland interpretive displays. More than 10 different dinosaur species have been
THE MONTANA DINOSAUR CENTER
Highlights of this museum include a 137-foot-long life-size model of Seismosaurus and the very first baby dinosaurs found in North America.
UPPER MUSSELSHELL MUSEUM
11 & 36 S. Central Ave., Harlowton harlowtonmuseum.org
Say hello to “Ava” the Avaceratops Lammersi at the Upper Musselshell Museum, a fossil discovered north of Shawmut and the first of its kind. Other fossils from dinosaur legs and hips are also housed at the museum
BOZEMAN AREA
YOU ARE HERE
We live for Bozeman summers. The entire town comes to life, with live music, comedy clubs, sunset hikes, festivals and more. People are itching to go rock climbing, hit the trails, go hiking and experience a multitude of outdoor adventures. The open air is our playground, and there’s no shortage of places for us to recreate. For information on visiting the city, visit visitbozeman.com, Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce at bozemanchamber.com or the Downtown Bozeman Partnership at downtownbozeman.org.
TAKE A HIKE
In Bozeman, one doesn’t even need to leave town to hit a hiking trail with trails leading all the way from the heart of Bozeman up into surrounding mountains. As a part of a partnership between the City of Bozeman and and the Gallatin Valley Land Trust, called Main Street to the Mountains, you don’t even need a car to get out into nature. An interactive map can be found at gvlt.org/trails/trail-map/. Bozeman residents also love to hike the “M,” which is bedazzled with thousands of wildflowers in the spring and provides beautiful views of the city. Created in 1915 by Montana State University students, it is a long-known hike beloved by locals. It’s popular with families, and the whole trip can be done in about an hour. If you’re feeling up to a longer trek, you can also hike past the “M” toward the summit of Baldy Mountain. The newer Drinking Horse Mountain trail nearby is also quickly becoming a local favorite. Hitting the other side of the valley, there’s also Hyalite Canyon, which features a seemingly endless number of waterfalls and trails leading to streams, lakes and mountain peaks. More information can be found at https://www. hyalite.org/about-hyalite-canyon
TAKE A HIKE
The Montana Wilderness Association has been at the center of all things hiking in Montana for more than 50 years. At hikewildmontana.org, you’ll find an interactive guide to more than 225 hikes statewide, with many in Southwest Montana. Each listing comes with everything you’d like to know about a hike beforehand, with a hike description and trail specifics, including elevation gain, trailhead directions and accessibility for kids and dogs, and businesses to grab a bite before your hike and continue your exploration of the area. Check out the website ( hikewildmontana.org) for more information on all of MWA’s offerings as well as a blog with hiking tips.
GO ON A DISCOVERY WALK WITH GVLT
Want to get to know the Main Street to the Mountains trail system better than ever before?
Go on an hour-long Discovery Walk with Gallatin Valley Land Trust. A little bit of learning is incorporated into every walk and most are family-friendly, though some are specifically for little ones in cooperation with Montana Outdoor Science School. For kids, learning about amphibians, bugs, the water system and survival skills is sure to keep them entertained and engaged, while adult programs incorporate astronomy, wildflowers and weeds, history, geology, birding and even walking with an acupuncturist to learn techniques for stress reduction. For more information on guided hikes, meeting points and schedules, visit gvlt.org/ events/discovery-walks.
GO FOR A RUN
The Big Sky Wind Drinkers hosts Fun Runs weekly through the summer (May - September). Fun Runs are free and open to the public. Visit https://winddrinkers.org/trailhead/fun_runs/ for more information and updates.
GO ON A BIKE RIDE
Biking in many forms is becoming an increasingly popular activity, and Bozeman is not exempt from the trend. The Gallatin Valley Bike Club supports a number of community events throughout the year, including rides, races and tours for adults. In the summer, the organization offers bike tours of Bracket Creek, the Lewis and Clark Caverns, Natural Bridge Falls, the Missouri River, Paradise Valley and more. One thing to note is that those going on tours must be GVBC members, so be sure to check if membership is the right option for you before booking your tour. For more information and updates, visit gallatinvalleybicycleclub.org. There is also a volunteer group in Bozeman that rehabs donated bikes and shows riders how to fix their twowheeled machines. Bozeman Bike Kitchen is open Tuesday and Thursday evenings 6 to 8 p.m. and the shop itself is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The shop is at the corner of Industrial and Griffin drives. Visit bozemanbikekitchen.org for more information
BECOME A BOZEMAN HISTORY BUFF ON A WALKING TOUR
There’s no better way to explore Bozeman than with a walking tour. More than 40 local properties are recorded on the National Historic Register and Bozeman has nine historic districts. The Bozeman Convention and Visitors Bureau has free maps available to download for self-guided tours at visitbozeman.com, which guide you along Bozeman’s Main Street; down South Tracy Avenue, Willson and Grand Avenues, or through Sunset Hills historic cemetery.
CRAZY FOR CRAZY DAYS
On the hunt for a bargain? Crazy Days in Downtown Bozeman is the place to be. Merchants cut prices on select merchandise and sell it out in front of the stores. There’s a little something for everyone in Downtown Bozeman, and you’ll definitely come away with a few new items from one of the many vendors that take part in the huge sale. This year it will take place July 19-21 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours can vary depending on the business
SWEET PEA FESTIVAL
Bozeman’s 46th Sweet Pea Festival will be held at Lindley Park on Aug. 2 to 4. A wellloved community event, Sweet Pea includes entertainment of many forms — music of all genres, performances by local theater and dance troupes, workshops, family-friendly entertainment and activities, a flower show, a beer and wine garden featuring Montana microbrews and more than 100 arts and crafts vendors for you to shop from. Fun-filled community events are also held in the week leading up to the festival. Admission to these events is free, and admission to the festival in Lindley Park requires a wristband. Visit sweetpeafestival.org.
SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS AT SLAM
Now more than ever, local and up-and-coming artists need our support. The Summer SLAM Festival is planned for Aug. 3 and 4 at Bogert
Park. SLAM works on supporting local artists all year round, and the festival is the culmination of all that, featuring artists and musicians from across the state and Montana-made spirits, beers and local food options. For more information, visit slamfestivals.org.
TAKE A DIP
Bogert Pool will open for the summer on June 11. The city’s only outdoor pool at 325 S. Church St., it offers two swimming areas — one 25-yard pool ranging from three-and-a-half to nine feet deep and a shallow pool that is one to three feet deep and is ideal for younger children. The pool will be open from Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, 1-5 p.m., Friday, 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m-6 p.m. Call 406-582-0806 or visit bozeman.net/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/19/2042 for more information. If interested in the Swim Center, Bozeman’s indoor pool, it is open year-round and located at 1211 W. Main St. Visit www.bozeman.net/departments/ parks-and-recreation/pools or call 406-582-2294 for more information.
DIVE INTO A LAKE
There’s nothing better than jumping into a nice, cool lake on a hot day. Fortunately, Bozeman has several options if you’re looking to spend time by the water. There’s Glen Lake Rotary Park, formerly the East Gallatin Recreation Area, which locals know as Bozeman Beach. A large man-made pond, it has a wide sand beach as well as picnic areas, volleyball courts, rock climbing and a dock for fishing or diving. Not to mention, MAP Brewing is just a little way down the road and has an excellent outdoor patio with a view of the lake. If you’re willing to venture a little farther outside of Bozeman, Fairy Lake is another local favorite. It’s just 22.5 miles north of Bozeman on MT 86, and then five miles west on Fairy Lake Road. Another popular destination is Hyalite Reservoir, a 206acre reservoir 12 miles south of Bozeman, which is in close proximity to many hiking trails and other recreational opportunities. For more information, visit fs.usda.gov/main/custergallatin/home.
RAFT A RIVER
Looking for an adrenaline rush? Rafting any river in Montana is sure to be a fun adventure. Contact one of the rafting companies below to learn more about summer offerings.
• Madison River Tubing, 406-209-8384, madisonrivertubing.com
TAKE A SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
After a long day of adventuring, soak your sore, tired muscles in one of Southwest Montana’s many hot springs, listed below.
Bozeman Hot Springs
Near Four Corners, just west of Bozeman, 81123 Gallatin Rd.
Info: 406-586-6492, bozemanhotsprings.com
Norris Hot Springs
If you’d like to listen to some live music while you soak, visit Norris Hot Springs.
Info: 406-685-3303, norrishotsprings.com
Chico Hot Springs
After walking around the artsy, cowboy small town of Livingston, visit Chico Hot Springs in Paradise Valley. It features live music on the weekends, a bar, food, spa and accommodations
Info: 406-333-4933, chicohotsprings.com
Yellowstone Hot Springs
Open for its second summer, these hot springs are located on the banks of the Yellowstone close to the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park.
Info: 833-977-7464, yellowstonehotspringsmt.com
PITCH A TENT
With more than 400 campgrounds, both public and private, finding a spot to pitch a tent, light a fire and spend a night out under the stars isn’t
22 miles north of Bozeman on Highway 86, then five miles west on Fairy Lake Road 406-552-2520, https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ custergallatin/recarea/?recid=5592
For a list of campgrounds around the state, visit https://www.visitmt.com/whereto-stay/campgrounds or montanastateparks. reserveamerica.com. Some require reservations.
GET A BIRD’S EYE VIEW
Want to see the Gallatin Valley from a whole new perspective? You’ve got options. Founded in 2002, Bozeman Paragliding provides instruction, sales and service for students and clients. Intro paragliding lessons for one or two days are $200 or $350. Lessons in speed flying – using a smaller lighter wing to stay closer to the terrain –and powered paragliding are also available. For more information, visit bozemanparagliding.com or call 406-581-2955. Taking a hot air balloon is
an excellent way to take in the view. Endeavor Ballooning offers trips in Bozeman ($325) and Big Sky ($379) at sunrise each day. Find them online at www.montanaballoon.com or call 406600-8999. If being in the open air isn’t your thing, consider a chartered helicopter ride. Tours take in sites as close as the Gallatin River and as far afield as Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park and Big Sky and Ennis.
Central Copters 406-586-9185, centralcopters.com
GO ROCK CLIMBING
Bozeman is a rock climber’s dream. Six climbing boulders are located around town: at East Gallatin Recreation Area off Manley Road, in Langohr Gardens off South 19th, at Bozeman Pond off S. Fowler, at Depot Park at Aspen and Front streets, and two at Gallatin County Regional Park off Oak Street. For indoor climbing, Spire Climbing Center at 13 Enterprise Blvd. has a variety of routes and offers instruction for beginners and experienced climbers of all ages. Info: spireclimbingcenter. com, 406-586-0706. If you’d rather stay outside, Montana Alpine Guides offers a variety of rock climbing classes and guided experiences. They’ve been in business since 1885 and also cover ice climbing, mountaineering, backcountry skiing, avalanche education and backpacking.
TRY SOMETHING NEW WITH PARKS AND REC
Whether you’re an athlete, dancer, skateboarder or a combination of all three, the city’s Parks and Recreation Department offers activities to keep every member of the family busy all summer. Try sand volleyball, badminton or pickle ball for adults; Active Aging Programs for seniors and language camps, day camps or sports camps for kids. Info can be found at https://www.bozeman. net/departments/parks-and-recreation or by calling 406-582-2300.
CATCH SOME LIVE MUSIC
Every Thursday evening from early July to
mid-August, enjoy live music, food and fun in Downtown Bozeman. There will be kids activities from 6:30 to 8 p.m. and live music from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Food vendors will be on site or step into a few of the downtown stores that stay open late. Visit downtownbozeman.org.
HAVE A FEW CHUCKLES
Laugh the night away at the area’s hot spot for comedy. Last Best Comedy Club bills itself as a place “where funny resides.” Closed Sundays and Mondays. Call 406-219-3933. https://www. lastbestcomedy.com/.
RIDE A HORSE
Giddy up — you’re in the cowboy country now, so you might as well explore it like one and go horseback riding. Local outfitters offering tours include:
Sunrise Pack Station 1099 Manley Rd. 406-579-9642, sunrisepackstation.com
Cedar Ridge Equine 555 Rocky Rd. 406-282-3355, cedarridgeequines.com
Kokopelli’s Travels 15150 Horse Creek Rd. 406-686-4475
Medicine Lake Outfitters 346 Linney Spur Rd. 406-388-4938, packtrips.com
GO BIRDING
One surefire way to see wildlife in Bozeman is simply by looking up. Montana is home to a diverse array of bird species and you’re sure to catch a glimpse of a few if you pay attention. The Montana Audubon Society’s website at mtaudubon.org maps birding hot spots into five regions. The Bozeman region includes Glen Lake Rotary Park, formerly East Gallatin Recreation Area, and the Sourdough Nature Trail, where you may see a mountain chickadee, a red-breasted
nuthatch or a western meadowlark. On the website, you’ll find the state birding list, birding trip guides and information about birding groups. The local organization, Sacajawea Audubon society, usually holds classes and events during the summer. Visit sacajaweaaudubon.org for more info.
MEET BRUTUS THE BEAR
Meet a local celebrity and be sure and head down to Montana Grizzly Encounter and meet Brutus, a world-famous male grizzly and star of National Geographic’s “Expedition Wild.” The grizzly bear rescue and education sanctuary is also home to bears Bella, Sheena, Jake, Christi, Lucy and Maggi. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Monday in summer, 80 Bozeman Hill Road, off Interstate 90, east of Bozeman. The cost is $13.50 for adults, $12.50 for seniors 65 and older and $11.50 for children ages five to 14. Season passes are available. Info: grizzlyencounter.org, 406-586-8893
JUMP FOR JOY
Looking for something to tire out the kids? Or just want to have some good, old-fashioned fun as an adult? JumpTime Bozeman is open. You’ll find trampoline grids, slam dunk basketball courts, dodgeball games, an obstacle course and much more. Please note that socks are required. Info: jumptimebozeman.com, 406-586-3473.
ROOT FOR THE HOME TEAM
Is there anything that spells summer more than baseball? Heroes Park in the Gallatin Valley Fairgrounds Complex holds a series of games during the summer. Attend live or listen to the games on 95.9 KGVM. Check bozemanlegionbaseball.com or email spotkay@ bozemanlegionbaseball.com for more information.
PLAY TENNIS
Work on your tennis serve at Bogert (two courts) or Southside (three courts) parks, or Bozeman
High School’s Mike Anderson Courts (10 courts). Or look into facilities and play at Montana State University’s Bobcat/Anderson Tennis Center (406-994-2237). For info on lessons and leagues for kids and adults, visit the Bozeman Tennis Association at https://www.facebook.com/ BozemanTennisAssociation/.
GET UP TO PAR
Practice your golf swing and take in some gorgeous views of the Gallatin Valley at Cottonwood Hills Golf Course at 8955 River Road near Four Corners or Bridger Creek Golf Course, 2710 McIlhattan Road at the foothills of the Bridgers. Both offer leagues, rentals and clinics for all ages. Contact Bridger Creek at 406-586-2333 or www.bridgercreek.com Contact Cottonwood at 406-587-1118 or www. cottonwoodhills.com/.
PLAY A GAME OF VOLLEYBALL
The Big Sky Volleyball Club offers summer action outdoors and indoor play in winter. Visit its website, www.bigskyvolleyball.com or call 406860-3096 to learn more about lessons, camps and leagues. Or, organize your own game. There are nets at Glen Lake Rotary Park and Bozeman Pond Park that are available for free play.
TRY YOUR HAND AT PADDLE BOARDING
Test your balance and try something new by paddleboarding. Rentals are available at Big Boys Toys, bigboystoysrentals.com; Round House Sports, www.roundhouse-sports.com; Northern Lights Rivers Lakes & Oceans, www. northernlightstrading.com; and the Montana State University Outdoor Recreation Rental Center (for students, staff and alumni), www.montana.edu/ outdoorrecreation/Rentals.html. Bring a life jacket!
FRISBEE AND GOLF? MEET FOLFING
Folf, also known as disc golf, is golf played with a frisbee. You can purchase disks at local sporting good stores, and courses vary from professional metal baskets to hanging PVC pipes. Nearby
courses include 12 holes at Rose Park, 18 holes at Mossy Pines at Battle Ridge near Bridger Bowl, 9 holes at Monforton School and 9 holes in the Elk Grove subdivision. See course reviews at dgcoursereview.com.
JOIN A KICKBALL OR CORNHOLE TEAM
Overtime Sports in partnership with other local businesses, offers laid-back summer adult league kickball action. Check out www. overtimesportsbozeman.com for details on playing kickball or other offerings like flag football, dodgeball, floor hockey, skeeball and cornhole too. Check the website for updates on when spring and summer leagues will be.
Gallatin County Fairgrounds, Haynes Pavilion 901 North Black, Bozeman.
STROLL AROUND A FARMERS MARKET
For lots of fresh local produce and crafts, visit one of the two weekly markets listed below: Bozeman Farmers Market
Tuesdays, June 18 to Sept. 10 5 to 8 p.m.
Lindley Park, 900 East Main St.
Gallatin Valley Farmers Market Saturdays, June 15 to Sept. 7 9 a.m. to noon
Gallatin County Fairgrounds, Haynes Pavilion 901 North Black Ave.
CRUISE DOWN MAIN
Are you a vintage car lover? Check out this year’s Cruisin’ On Main Car Show, which will take place on Sunday, Aug. 18 between Willson and Rouse avenues on Main in Downtown Bozeman. Info: downtownbozeman.org
TRY AN OLD-FASHIONED SODA
Treat yourself to an old-fashioned soda from The Chocolate Moose Candy & Soda Shoppe, which features an original “Bobtail” soda fountain from the 1940s. The shop has old-time mixed Coca-Cola, root beer, Dr. Pepper and Sprite, plus ice cream sodas, root beer floats, brown cows, milkshakes, malts, sundaes, banana splits and more. Not to mention, there are plenty of house-
made chocolates, taffy and sweets to go around. The Chocolate Moose is at 25 S. Willson Ave.
TAKE TO THE STAGE
The Ellen usuually offers acting classes in its TATE Academy Summer Programs. Info: tateacademy.org, www.vergetheater.com and opendoorbozeman.org.
GO TO AN ART WALK
Every year, Bozeman hosts a series of art walks in the summer, where locals stroll around downtown, sip on wine and enjoy the galleries and shops. Art walks are held 6-8 p.m., the second Friday of each month from June to September. Not sure where to start? The Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture at 111 S. Grand Ave., an old school building, is home to dozens of artists and studios such as Ecce Fine Art and the Artists Gallery. Info:www.theemerson.org.
SOME OTHER BOZEMAN GALLERIES:
A. Banks Gallery
131 E. Main St. 406-728-9348 www.abanksgallery.com
Altitude Gallery
134 E. Main St. 406-582-4472 altitudegallerybozeman.com
700 B N. Wallace Ave. 406-580-4854 www.miscomill.com
Montana Trails Gallery
7 W. Main St. 406-586-2166 www.montanatrails.com
Old Main Gallery
129 E. Main St. 406-587-8860 oldmaingallery.com
Planet Bronze Art Gallery 905 N. Fifth Ave. 406-585-0050
www.facebook.com/planetbronzeartbozeman/
SPEND A DAY AT THE MUSEUM
These Bozeman museums offer exhibits of interest to the whole family: Museum of the Rockies 600 W. Kagy Blvd. 406-994-2251, www.museumoftherockies.org
You’ll find artifacts from many points of history at Museum of the Rockies. It is known for its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, but also houses a permanent history collection with a focus on indigenous people and the growth of the Yellowstone region. Current exhibitions include Living History Farm and Paugh History Mall.
American Computer & Robotics Museum
2023 Stadium Dr. 406-582-1288, www.acrmuseum.org
Celebrating 34 years as America’s oldest Information Age museum, the exhibits span 4,000 years of communication and innovation, from early writing systems to today’s quantum computers. Visit to see why legendary Harvard scientist E. O. Wilson calls it, “Inch for inch, the best museum in the world.”
Montana Science Center
2744 W. Main St. 406-522-9087, montanasciencecenter.org
Formerly the Children’s Museum of Bozeman, Montana Science Center rebranded a few years ago to better facilitate its mission as an educational family facility with hands-on exhibits, science camps, after-school activities and educational programs for all ages. Check its website for information on summer camps and other events.
Gallatin History Museum
317 W. Main St. 406-522-8122, gallatinhistorymuseum.org
Immerse yourself in local history at The Gallatin History Museum. Housed in a 1911 building that was once the county jail, view old cells and gallows along with an extensive historical collection and photo archive.
Earth’s Treasures, Fossil & Mineral Museum Gallery
25 N. Willson Ave. 406-586-3451, earthstreasuresmt.com
Just by going to Earth’s Treasures and looking around, you’ve taken, as owner Patti puts it, a trip “around the world and outer space, too.” The store is also a museum, and a free one at that. With staff supervision, there’s plenty for you and your kids to poke, prod and feel.
GRAB A BEER
GRAB A BEER
Bozeman is known for its many, many breweries. By state law, breweries must quit serving at 8 p.m. and sell no more than 48 ounces of beer to a customer per day. Check each brewery’s website for details on pours, opening hours and food availability.
406 Brewing Company
308 E. Main St., Suite 406,Manhattan www.406brewing.com
Bozeman Brewing Company
504 N. Broadway, bozemanbrewing.com
Bridger Brewing Company 1609 S. 11th Ave., www.bridgerbrewing.com
Bunkhouse Brewery
7715 Shedhorn Drive, thebunkhousebrewery.com
Map Brewing Co. 510 Manley Dr., mapbrewing.com
Mountains Walking Brewing 422 N. Plum Ave., www.mountainswalking.com
Nordic Brew Works 730 Boardwalk Ave., Suite 1B www.nordicbrewworks.com
Outlaw Brewing 2876 N 27th Ave., www.outlaw-brewing.com
Madison River Brewing 20900 Frontage Rd., Bldg B, Belgrade www.madisonriverbrewing.com
Beehive Basin Brewery 245 Town Center Ave., Big Sky, www.beehivebasinbrewery.com
HARDER
Bozeman is lucky to be home to award-winning local distilleries that have been perfecting their craft for years, offering whiskey, vodka, gin, brandy, rum, moonshine and various liqueurs. Many of the distilleries offer shops, tours and tasting rooms, where the state limit is 2 ounces per person per day.
Bozeman Spirits Distillery
121 W. Main St., Suite A
Flavored vodka, gin, spiced rum and whiskey. Info: www.bozemanspirits.com, 406-577-2155
While we have plenty of breweries and distilleries to choose from, Bozeman is home to many other beverage options, including a cider house, a meadery and a kombuchery. Try a flight of hard apple cider, made on the premises at Lockhorn Cider House, 21 S. Wallace Ave. Flavors include apple, ginger, hops, bourbon reserve, habanero and flathead cherry and more seasonals. Info: www.lockhornhardcider.com or 406580-9098. Valhalla Meadery is at 875 Bridger Drive, Unit B, and brews mead with local honey, crafting traditional sweet or dry mead as well as infusing unique flavors like beet or ginger. Nordic-themed, it also offers delicious small plates. Info: valhallabozeman.com, 406-577-2383.
BELGRADE AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 11 MILES • 17 MINUTES
Looking for a slower-paced, small town feel? Escape to Belgrade for the day to walk around, grab some ice cream or a doughnut and check out the new businesses popping up downtown. Belgrade was established in 1882 and is now home to just under 8,000 people. It was named for the capital of Serbia, as a thank you to the Serbian investors who helped finance the Northern Pacific Railroad line that passes through town. An up-and-coming, charming little mountain town not too far away from Bozeman, it is home to the 2015 Best Small Library in America with programs year-round www.belgradelibrary.org. Belgrade has many great dinner spots, including the new location of Bar 3 BBQ, Mint Café & Bar and MacKenzie River Pizza. Global options include Curry Express offering Indian fare and Bone Broth Noodles for a bowl of pho. For a quick lunch on the go, stop by Chalet Market, 6410 Jackrabbit Lane, www. chaletmarket.com. Need a drink? Stop by the Madison River Brewing Co. on Frontage Road for a local brew.
Info: belgradechamber.org.
SPLASH AND SKATE
If you find yourself needing to cool down on a hot day, the Belgrade Splash Park is the place to go, with jets, streams and waterfalls keeping visitors cool. It’s at Lewis and Clark Park, 205 E. Main St., which also includes playground equipment, picnic tables, tennis courts, soccer fields and a popular skate park. Info: https:// www.belgrademt.gov/209/Parks-Recreation.
EMBARK ON AN ADVENTURE
Get out of town with Bridger Outfitters, at 14326 Rocky Mountain Road. The company offers day horseback rides and other Montana outdoor adventures including an 1880s-style chuckwagon cookout, cattle drives, fly fishing trips, fall hunts and more. Info: 406-581-4868.
TAKE IN A BALL GAME
Belgrade is home to the American Legion A team the Belgrade Bandits and Belgrade Bandits B, which play at Medina Field, 602 Home Run Drive. The season is already in full swing and runs through early August. Info: facebook.com/ pg/belgradebandits.
GO TO A GOAT DAIRY
Ever wondered where the yummy, creamy goat cheese from Amaltheia Organic Dairy all begins? You’re in luck. The business has been open since 2000, and the family-run farm has a herd of more than 250 goats and makes more than 2,000 pounds of cheese a week. Among its yummy assortment of chevres are three American Cheese Society Competition winners. Sue and Melvyn Brown welcome the
public to tour the farm or cheese factory (no children at the factory, please). Call 406-3880569 for farm reservations, 406-388-5950 for factory reservations. Info, or to order cheese: amaltheiadairy.com.
VISIT AN OLD SCHOOL BREWERY & TAP ROOM
Madison River Brewery at 20900 Frontage Road is known for producing some great-tasting beers in a no-fuss environment. Visit the tap room daily from 2-8 p.m. Info: 406-388-0322 or visit madisonriverbrewing.com.
FALL IN LOVE WITH FALL
The annual Belgrade Fall Festival with its popular parade and car show, is usually held in early September. The parade starts at 10 a.m., then enjoy arts and crafts, food vendors and barbecue at Lewis and Clark Park, 205 E. Main St. Info: www.belgrade chamber.org.
317 W. Main St. Bozeman, MT 59715 (406)522-8122
Step back in time and visit Gallatin County’s past.
The Gallatin History Museum is located in the former county jail building, used from 1911 to 1982 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Permanent and changing exhibits feature early area history and artifacts, unique local stories, photography, and jail and law enforcement displays.
Hours & Admission
Summer Hours: Tue - Sat, 10am - 5pm
Winter Hours: Wed - Sat, 10am - 4pm
General - $10.00
Military, Senior, and Youth - Discounted Gallatin Historical Society Members - Free
Please see our website for current hours and admission prices. gallatinhistorymuseum.org
MAHATTAN AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 20 MILES • 24
MINUTES
Just a little way down the road from Belgrade you’ll find Manhattan. Nothing like the New York City borough with the same name, Manhattan is a small town with plenty of access to the outdoors. Take a stroll through town, head to the Gallatin River for some fishing or attend a farmers market. Manhattan also has a few spots to grab a bite to eat. Be sure and visit The Manhattan Saloon, known for its generous sandwiches. Also stop at the new Sophie’s Bakery, Cafe, and Espresso, run by Manhattan native Sophie Duffin. Info: Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, 112 S. Broadway, 406284-4162, manhattanareachamber.com.
CELEBRATE SPUDS
One of the best annual events in the Gallatin Valley is the Manhattan Potato Festival. This year, it will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Saturday, Aug. 17 at Railroad Park, at Main and Broadway streets. The festival celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage of growing potatoes. You’ll be sure to meet plenty of multi-generation potato farmers in the area and have lots of fun. The family event starts with a fireman’s breakfast and includes a parade down Main Street at 11 a.m., live music at the Gazebo, a car show, arts and crafts vendors and more potato offerings than you can handle. Info: manhattanareachamber. com
SHOP LOCAL
The Manhattan Farmers Market will take place every Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m., June 12 through Sept. 11 at Manhattan’s Railroad Park. It will feature fresh vegetables, baked goods, arts and crafts, eggs and more.
GO OUT FOR A BURGER
After a long day of adventuring, stand in line and grab a cheeseburger and a milkshake or a malt at Mark’s In & Out Beefburgers, an original drive-in fast food shop that locals love. It has been open each year since 1954 in Montana’s warmer months at 801 W. Park St. Take your burger to go or eat it on the tiled wraparound bench. Info: marksbeefburgers.com
FLOAT THE RIVER
The annual Yellowstone River Boat Float, retracing the route of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition, happens on the second full weekend of July. It starts in Livingston at Mayor’s Landing and ends in Columbus, with overnight camping and wild parties in Big Timber and Reed Point. There are stops along the way where people share beverages and volunteers hand out hot dogs and water. Rafts and all manner of crafts launch at 8 a.m. on Friday. The float goes through the weekend.
TRY OUT A LOCAL BREW
Livingston’s no different from the rest of Montana when it comes to having plenty of excellent breweries. Its two microbreweries are Katabatic at 117 W. Park St., which serves regular pours and rotators, plus root beer for the kids and Mexican food from Fiesta en Jalisco next door. Info: www.katabaticbrewing.com. And then Neptune’s at 119 N. L St. serves a dozen-plus beers on tap, and its companion restaurant at 232 S. Main St. offers brews plus a full menu, including surf-style sushi, burgers, salads, fried fish and more. Info: neptunesbrewery.com, neptunestaphouse.com.
SEE A MOVIE
The Shane Lelani Center for the Arts hosts film viewings, theater and more. Visit theshanecenter.org or call 406-222-1420 for more information and updates
TAKE IN TUNES UNDER THE STARS
Pine Creek Lodge is a wonderful Paradise Valley venue for live music, often of the folk or country variety. Support some local and regional artists and go for one of the lodge’s brunch shows to see artists like the Kitchen Dwellers, Winnie Brave, Leftover Salmon and more. Info: 406-222-3628, www.pinecreeklodgemontana. com/events.
GIDDY UP, PARTNER
Join Mike Thompson and his family for a scenic horseback ride. He and his family have been leading day rides and multiday adventures in and around Yellowstone National Park for more than 20 years. They’ve been written up in National Geographic Explorer and Men’s Health, and had an appearance on the Travel Channel. Their horses accommodate riders of all abilities, and the food always gets wonderful reviews. It’s base is in the Paradise Valley, south of Emigrant. Info: 406-581-5021, wildernesspacktrips.com.
GET YOUR FRESH FRUITS AND VEGGIES AT THE FARMERS MARKET
This year’s Livingston Farmers Market will run from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays, June 5 through Sept. 18. Run by Western Sustainability Exchange, you’ll find tons of delicious food, beer, arts, baked goods, crafts and local produce. Info: westernsustainabilityexchange.org/lfm.
VISIT A MUSEUM
Livingston is home to a variety of museums covering the history and culture of the area, as well as one of residents’ favorite pastimes.
The Yellowstone Gateway Museum 118 W. Chinook St., tells the history of the town and area from Lewis and Clark to Yellowstone Park and the Northern Pacific Railway. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Info: 406-2224184, parkcounty.org/Yellowstone-Gateway-Museum/.
The Livingston Depot Center Museum at 200 W. Park St. preserves the majestic 1902 Italianate train depot and houses exhibits with a focus on railroad history. It’s featured exhibit changes each season. Info: 406-2222300, livingstondepot.org.
Parks Reece Gallery at 119 S. Main St., Livingston, showcases the art of owner Parks Reece, whose paintings and lithographs have been lauded by The New York Times. Lucky visitors might even catch him at work in his studio. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday. Info: 406-222-5724, parksreece.com.
LIVINGSTON AREA
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
26 MILES • 30 MINUTES
Livingston is where arts and culture meet the Rocky Mountain West, and it embodies everything we love about Southwestern Montana. It’s home to a dozen art galleries, great one of-a-kind shops (cowboy gear, antiques, gifts, custom watches, jewelry, Western wear, modern kitchenware), two community theaters, three great bookstores and intriguing museums, plus a host of delicious restaurants. Modern Livingston is an arts hub and a great place for daytripping and nighttime activities. Plus, the popular Chico Hot Springs and all the outdoor recreation the Paradise Valley has to offer are nearby.
C HECK OUT THE CAVERNS
This is a must-do day trip for anyone who hasn’t been here before. Montana’s first state park, Lewis & Clark Caverns, is large and colorful and stands out among all other cave formations in the Northwest. The limestone formations include stalagmites, stalactites, columns and flowstone with names such as “bacon” and “popcorn.”
The 2,900-acre state park also features hiking trails, interpretive programs, rental cabins and a campground. The caverns are located just south of Interstate 90, west of Three Forks. Guided tours are offered May to September. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/lewis-and-clark-caverns/.
VISIT THE MUSEUM
Take in the area’s history and culture, including railroad artifacts, mining and agriculture exhibits and Native American art and artifacts at The Headwaters Heritage Museum. Treasures include the mount of Montana’s largest brown trout (29.5 pounds); possibly the oldest American-made anvil in existence and a fantastic collection of barbed wire. The museum, at 202 S. Main St., is open daily. Info: www.tfhistory.org.
TAKE A LEAP OF FAITH
Dzone Skydiving will give you the feeling of flight or freefall with the safety of a trained professional at your back. Tandem skydiving allows you to be physically attached to the
instructor at four points of your parachute harness. Dzone is located at 1680 Airport Rd., 406-586-5867. Info: bozeman.dzoneskydiving. com
ROCK OUT AT A FESTIVAL
Local concert venue The Bridge in nearby Cardwell features two summer music festivals always guaranteed to be a good time. Put on your favorite pair of cowboy boots and get rowdy at Headwaters Country Jam. This threeday festival, the state’s largest country jam, is July 25 to 27. This year’s lineup includes Bailey Zimmerman, John Pardi, Gary Allan and more. Info: www.headwaterscountryjam.com. If you’re more of a rock than a country person, Montana’s favorite Rockfest takes place at the Bridge. This year’s festival, Aug. 8-10, features Stone Temple Pilot, The Wallflowers, The Cadillac Three and more. Info: www.rockintherivers.com.
VISIT THE BUFFALO JUMP
View an important part of state indigenous history at Madison Buffalo Jump State Park, which preserves a high cliff on the Madison River where Native Americans harvested bison for more than 2,000 years, using them for food, shelter and clothing. It’s a great place to hike, watch birds and picnic, as well as learn about the hunting technique in use up until about 200 years ago. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/madisonbuffalo-jump
THREE FORKS AREA
At the confluence of three rivers, Three Forks has everything from birding to biking. Named “Montana’s Favorite Small Town,” Three Forks is west of Bozeman on Interstate 90. It’s named for its proximity to Missouri Headwaters State Park, where the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin rivers converge to form the Missouri River. Lewis and Clark named the three tributaries in honor of President Jefferson and his secretaries of treasury and state. Almost every summer weekend, there’s an activity or event. The town is known for the historic Sacajawea Hotel, where the downstairs bar/restaurant has food almost as good as they serve Wednesday through Sunday evenings in the acclaimed Pompey’s Grill upstairs (reservations recommended). The hotel was built in 1910 by John Q. Adams, the Milwaukee Railroad purchasing agent who founded Three Forks two years before. Info: sacajaweahotel.com. Info on the city: threeforksmontana.com.
BIG SKY AREA
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
44 MILES • 56 MINUTES
Though known as a ski town, Big Sky is stunning year-round. The town is home to Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin, with more than 30 restaurants, bars and eateries, and more than 40 shops selling everything from groceries to toys. There’s plenty to see and do during the warmer months. Summer events include the Farmers Market every Wednesday through September, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fire Pit Park at the Town Center. Visit Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, 88 Ousel Falls Rd. Unit A1, bigskychamber.com for up-to-date information on summer events and offerings this year.
TREK UP A MOUNTAIN
Though most people travel to Big Sky in the winter to ski, the area also has excellent hiking and biking trails in the summer, where you’re sure to get a breathtaking view around every bend. Popular mountain bike trails include Porcupine, Garnet Mountain, Mica Creek and Ramshorn Lake. The most popular hiking trail is the easy 1.6-mile hike to Ousel Falls and back. Other options are 2.2-mile Uplands, and the more strenuous 6.6-mile Beehive Basin, 6-mile Lava Lake and 5-mile Golden Trout Lake trails. Info: bscomt.org/.
VISIT CRAIL RANCH HOMESTEAD
Looking to learn a little more about the area’s history? Though skiing is what its known for now, the Big Sky area wasn’t always ski country. Before NBC News broadcaster Chet Huntley set his sights on creating a world-class skiing venue, the Big Sky area was prime Montana ranchland. The assorted cabins at the Crail Ranch Homestead Museum offer valuable insight into that history. Augustus Franklin Crail, his wife Sallie and their three children established the site in 1902, raising sheep, cattle, hay and wheat and expanding their holdings to 960 acres in the 50 years they operated it. The Crail Ranch Conservators offer guided tours from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays through September, opening the small cabin to show off its period furnishings and artifacts and pictures from the old ranch days. The grounds are open during all other daylight hours in June and July for walking tours and picnicking. The ranch is in Meadow Village Center; take Little Coyote Road past the Chapel and ponds and turn left on Spotted Elk. It is on the left. Info: https://bsco. org/crail-ranch-homestead/.
FEEL LIKE YOU’RE FLYING
See the canyon from a whole new angle with a zipline and canopy tour. All it takes is a harness and a few hundred feet of steel cable, and anyone can experience the sensation of flight. Yellowstone Zipline and Canopy Tours, at Mile Marker 64 on Highway 191, associated with Montana Whitewater Rafting Co., offers 2- or 3.5-hour zipline tours in the area featuring lines, sky bridges and ladders. Info: www. montanawhitewater.com.
HAVE FUN FOLFING
Miss being on a ski lift? Fans of disc golf can take Big Sky Resort’s nine-hole beginner course off Ramcharger, or the intermediate/advanced nine-hole course off Explorer. Access the courses with the purchase of a scenic lift ticket, or hike Huckleberry to access the Explorer course. Or try the 18-hole Big Horn Ridge course at Big Sky Community Park off Little Coyote Road in the Big Sky Meadow. Holes range in distance from 150 to 400 feet and signs and maps help you stay on course. The baskets are moved regularly to keep it fresh.
DO A FREE GUIDED HIKE
Looking to make some new friends and learn a little more about the area? Go on a guided hike. The Big Sky Community Organization offers a series of themed, guided area hikes in summer, known as Hike and Learn. Every Tuesday, beginning July and running through September, guided hikes begin in mid-morning. Destinations include Ousel Falls, Uplands Trail, Little Willow Way and the Crail Ranch. Info: bscomt.org.
CELEBRATE THE FOURTH
The Ennis Fourth of July Parade is legendary, with classic cars, horses, floats and marching bands. Start the day with the Fireman’s Pancake Breakfast, 6-10 a.m. and follow the parade with some grub at the Ennis Lions Club BBQ. Info: ennischamber.com/4th-of-july-rodeo-parade.
LEARN ABOUT LOCAL HISTORY
The Madison Valley History Museum is four miles west of Ennis on Highway 287 and offers a glimpse into the history of the Madison Valley. It even includes a replica of the blacksmith shop of local legend Oscar Angle. It’s open from 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, through September. Visit: madisonvalleyhistoryassociation.org.
SPEND A NIGHT UNDER THE STARS
The Ennis area offers a number of places to pitch a tent and hang up your hammock for the night, including:
Madison Valley Campground
Located in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, 34 miles south of Ennis on Highway 287, this campground sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet and encompasses 40 acres with 10 designated campsites. This is a basic campground with restroom facilities and drinking water. Info: https://madisonvalleycampground. com/ 406-682-4430.
Wade Lake Campground
Wade Lake Campground is 37 miles south of Ennis on Highway 287, then 5 miles west on Forest Road 241. This campground includes 30 designated tent and trailer campsites, with restroom facilities and drinking water. Campers can enjoy fishing, swimming, boating and hiking. Info: 406-682-4253.
MEET SPORTSMEN AND WOMEN
Shedhorn sports usually holds a tent sale at the store in late June, and the annual Hunter’s Rendezvous, Aug. 2-4, highlights more than 2,300 firearms and 100 sporting brands represented by 43 factory reps onsite at the store at 103 W. Main St. Info: www.shedhorn.com.
SIP AND RELAX AT WILLIE’S DISTILLERY
If you’re 21 or over, stopping at Willie’s is a must. Try the local recipes, including Canadian whiskey, moonshine and bourbon, chokecherry liqueur, and coffee cream and huckleberry sweet cream liqueurs. Robin and Willie Blazer are the owners. Open daily, hours vary. Willie’s also pairs with other locals such as the Madison Smokehouse to create foods such as moonshine bacon. Info: williesdistillery.com .
JUMP INTO A LAKE
There’s nothing like Ennis Lake on a hot day. Go boating, fishing or just enjoy swimming and splashing around in the water. The lake is located just a few miles north of town. There is a big, locally infamous rope swing hidden somewhere at the lake, but you’ll have to find it yourself.
GO TO THE FISH HATCHERY
The fish hatchery is open daily at 180 Fish Hatchery Road and there’s a self-guided visitors center tour. Walk through the hatchery building to see what’s coming to life. Info: fws.gov/fishhatchery/ennis.
ENNIS AREA
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
52 MILES • 1 HOUR
Ennis is a sweet small town known for its art and fishing. Take your time here and walk around town, taking in some incredible bronze sculptures by Jim Dolan, including a wild mustang, a lucky fly fisherman, a surveyor and the famous “Wreck Waiting to Happen” in Wild Rose Park on Main Street. Indoors on Main, the many galleries display paintings, baskets, weavings, stained glass, sculptures, bowls, knives and furniture. June hikers will find wildflowers all over, with popular trails in the Beaverhead National Forest including Bear Creek, Jack Creek and Wall Creek. Other outdoor activities including rafting Bear Trap Canyon, driving Gravelly Road or hooking up with a horse outfitter (Bar 88 Horses-Wolfpack Outfitters, or Diamond J Guest Ranch and Horseback Riding). Info: www.ennischamber.com.
BIG TIMBER AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 60 MILES • 56 MINUTES
Sweeping vistas and tall peaks dot the landscape around Big Timber, an outdoors person’s paradise. Originally called Dornix by a railroad official, this valley town was renamed Big Timber for the large cottonwood trees growing along the Yellowstone and Boulder rivers. Big Timber and surrounding Sweet Grass County are home to breathtaking scenery of the Absaroka-Beartooth and Crazy Mountain ranges and myriad opportunities to fish, float and camp in a classically Western setting. The Sweet Grass County Chamber of Commerce, with info on the town and county, is at bigtimber.com.
PAY A VISIT TO THE RANGER’S STATION
About 30 miles south of Big Timber off Rt. 298, you’ll find the historic Main Boulder Ranger Station built in 1905. It is now a museum, open 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., weekends, from July to Labor Day. The historic Ranger Station represents perhaps the oldest facility in the Forest Service System and has been painstakingly restored to represent its original character. It’s a great place to stop with the family and take in a slice of local history. The station served as both district headquarters and home to Ranger Harry S. Kaufman and family for almost 40 years beginning in 1905. Info: www.fs.usda.gov/detail/custergallatin/ learning/?cid=stelprdb5127786, or call 406-2221892.
FEEL LIKE A GIANT
Want to learn more about the events that shaped Sweet Grass County? The Crazy Mountain Museum highlights that. Exhibits include a miniature recreation of Big Timber in 1907, rodeo and sheep exhibits and a Pioneer Memorial Gallery, archive room and plant garden. The museum is open now and usually stays open through September. Call ahead for the most up-to-date offerings and the museum’s current social distancing guidelines. Info: crazymountainmuseum.com.
TAKE PART IN SWEET GRASS FEST
Big Timber hosts its multi-event rodeo and Sweet Grass Fest Saturday, June 28 and 29, with a rodeo and music downtown on Friday a Fun Run, vendor booths, parade anda rodeo on Saturday. Info: bigtimber.com/chamberinformation/sweet-grass-fest.
BECOME A FISH EXPERT
The Yellowstone River Trout Hatchery, 17 Fairgrounds Road, is one of 10 hatcheries operated by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. It’s home to Yellowstone Cutthroat broodstock
and can be toured by appointment. Call 406932-4434.
WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE SHEEP
Montana-bred woolies charge down the streets of Reed Point during the 34th annual Great Montana Sheep Drive. The event is usually held in early September. The town is 25 miles east of Big Timber along the Yellowstone River. The drive features a parade, vendors, a car show, a cook-off, games, a live auction and an evening street dance. Visit stillwatercountychamber.com
GOLF OVERLAND
Looking for a top-notch course with worldclass views of the Crazies? Beautifully nestled at the base of the Crazy Mountains, Overland Golf Course, 338 Big Timber Loop Rd., boasts beautiful views and a challenging course. A half mile off Interstate 90, it’s easy to find whether you’re staying in town or passing through. Overland is a nine-hole course, featuring different tees for your back nine, and water hazards that come into play on eight of the nine holes. It’s one of the state’s best and prettiest — you’ll love it. See for yourself: www.overlandgolf. com.
GO TO PRAIRIE DOG TOWN
What could be cuter than watching prairie dogs? Grab your camera and head to Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park to observe black-tailed prairie dogs, a Montana species of concern. Nine miles east of town along Interstate 90, the 98-acre park provides a protected habitat for the animals and features interpretive displays and up to 40 domeshaped prairie dog entrances per acre. Prairie dogs create patches of habitat that provide prey, shelter and forage for a diverse number of animals, including burrowing owls, blackfooted ferrets and mountain plovers. Plus, did we mention that they’re cute? Visit stateparks. mt.gov/greycliff-prairie-dog-town or call 406445-2326 for details.
VIRGINIA CITY AREA
BE ENTERTAINED
The Virginia City Players, performing melodrama and vaudeville in the Virginia City Opera House, are the oldest continually operating professional summer theater company in the Northwest. The company performs every day but Monday through Sept. 1. Summer shows are “Rustle Your Bustle,” “TheWonderful Wizard of Oz + Vaudeville,” and “The Wolfman of the West + Vaudeville.” Experience “Christmas in July” July 23-28. Info: www.virginiacityplayers. com. The Brewery Follies, meanwhile, offer daily live comedy, satire, music and nonsense, Memorial Day through September at the H.S. Gilbert Brewery, Montana’s first brewery established in 1863. Enjoy the show and the atmosphere at 4 and 8 p.m. shows. Reservations are by telephone only at 1-800-829-2969 ext. 3. Info: www.breweryfollies.net.
BE IMMERSED IN HISTORY
The Nevada City Living History Museum & Music Hall holds living history events each weekend in the summer, with names like “A Very Bloody Affair” and “Women of the Gulch.” The ghost town comes alive with reenactors who relive events during the gold rush era. You can walk
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
66 MILES • 1 HOUR 17 MINUTES
Go on a journey back in time to the 1860s and visit Virginia City. The remarkably well-preserved Victorian gold mining town is a must-see for visitors. View scores of historic buildings, complete with artifacts and furnishings. Ride the stagecoach, attend a live theater show, stay the night in historic lodging and shop the gift and specialty shops lining the boardwalk. A mile away, Nevada City is now a ghost town, but many of its buildings are intact and the museum has a fine collection of music boxes, player pianos and calliopes. For more information, visit the Virginia City Chamber of Commerce, 211 Wallace St., 406-843-5555 or www.virginiacity.com.
among them, engage with them and experience life during the 1860s. Visit lewisandclark.travel/ nomination/nevada-city-living-history-museum/.
PUMP SOME GAS
Village Pump at 225 E. Wallace St. is a restored 1940s gas station. The attached Virginia City Information Center is open May-September with information about area attractions. The information center features photos and information about the history of Virginia City and is outfitted in the style of a historic mining shop. Gas pumps are working via credit card 24/7/365 days a year. All revenue from gas pumps goes to restorationprojects in Virginia City.
TAKE A TRAIN
The Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad connects Virginia City to Nevada City with a 20-minute scenic ride. The train departs throughout the day when the weather is nice from the Virginia City Depot and the Bovey Visitor Center in Nevada City. The engineer will blow the whistle five minutes prior to departure and runs through Sept. 2. Visit https://virginiacitymt.com/ Experience-The-Old-West/Train-Rides-andSchedule for more information and updates.
PAN FOR GOLD
Visit the River of Gold exhibit and experience, located on Highway 287 between Virginia City and Nevada City. Look for the big mining dredge on the west side of the road. Outdoor exhibits of mining equipment highlight the Mount Vernon dredge. Find unique gifts, rocks and panning supplies in the gift shop. Call 406-843-5247 or visit virginiacitymt.com/Experience-The-OldWest/River-of-Gold for details.
GARDINER AREA
BE IN THE KNOW ABOUT ALL THINGS YELLOWSTONE
The Yellowstone Forever online store offers the best assortment of guidebooks, kids’ books, clothes and gear around. Visit shop.yellowstone. org.
TOUR YELLOWSTONE WITH A GUIDE
The Gardiner Chamber of Commerce lists several guides offering wildlife and/or photography tours in the park, and most of the operators have been in business for a long time, getting their start with either the National Park Service or Yellowstone Forever (formerly the Yellowstone Association). Take a standard tour, or design your own, for a day or more, with someone who knows what’s going on with wildlife day to day. Check the directory at gardinerchamber.com, under “plan your trip.”
RELAX AT THE RODEO
Gardiner’s NRA Rodeo, the Upper Yellowstone
Roundup, is at Jim Duffy Arena north of town at 6 p.m. June 17 to 18. Events typically include bareback bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and team roping. Info: www.facebook.com/GardinerRodeo/.
RAFT THE YELLOWSTONE
Gardiner-based companies offering daily scenic floats or white water rafting — some with overnight trips, horseback riding, ziplining, hiking and more — are
Montana Whitewater Raft Co., www.montanawhitewater. com
Paradise Adventure Co., www.paradiserafting.com
Wild West Rafting, www.wildwestrafting.com
Yellowstone Raft Co., www.yellowstoneraft.com
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
78 MILES • 1 HOUR 19 MINUTES
There’s a reason Gardiner is called the Gateway to Yellowstone. Everyone who enters or exits the park in Gardiner passes through an arch, and the town is rich with places to explore along the way. It’s a small community, with about 800 residents, and its historic spots include the Roosevelt Arch, named for President Theodore Roosevelt, who visited in 1903. The town is a base for activities such as rafting, kayaking, fly fishing, horseback riding, hiking, geocaching, campfire cookouts, rodeos and festivals. It’s not uncommon to see elk and maybe a bison around town. There’s a great grocery, several good restaurants, fun shopping and lots of motel rooms when the park is full. Info: www.gardinerchamber.com .
CHECK OUT THE VISITOR CENTERS
You’ll find almost everything you could need at the following visitor centers. Info: www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/.
Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth Hot springs
This center features great exhibits and a good bookstore. Albright is the best place for info on the Lamar Valley. Take a walking tour of Historic Fort Yellowstone before rushing off to the Hot Springs.
Canyon Visitor Education Center
This location offers plenty of shopping and dining, and you can also visit the education center to see a film on the geology of the park, a room-size relief model of the park, a huge lava lamp, and a 9,000-pound rotating kugel ball that illustrates global volcanic hotspots.
Fishing Bridge Visitor Center & Trailside Museum
Visit to learn more about the park’s birds and other wildlife and the geology of Yellowstone Lake.
Grant Visitor Center
Information on the wildfires of 1988 and their impact on the park.
Madison Information Center
Park orientation information and a partner-run bookstore.
Museum of the National Park Ranger
One mile north of Norris, this interesting old ranger station explains the history and duties of rangers, a big part of the park’s identity. It is staffed by retired rangers who are always happy to answer questions.
Norris Geyser Basin
Exhibits about the hydrothermal features of Yellowstone, a partner-run bookstore and general park information.
West Thumb Information Station
Pique your curiosity before exploring the adjacent geyser basin on the shore of Yellowstone Lake.
The “castle” mansion was built in 1892 by Bryon Roger Sherman and is now the home of the Meagher County Museum. Its 12 rooms contain period furniture, mineral samples, clothing and artifacts. The carriage house holds a stagecoach, fire engines and mementos of the open range. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 15-Sept. 15. Visit http://centralmontana.com/ listings/102.htm for details, or call 406-5472324.
TAKE A DIP IN THE HEALING WATERS
Native Americans first discovered the hot springs in White Sulphur Springs and warriors took pilgrimages to the medicinal and mud baths. The area was neutral ground so all tribes could benefit from the waters. Although the first bath house was built in 1866, you can still soak in the waters today. This area has been significant to indigenous people in the area. White Sulphur Springs is surrounded by Little Belt, Big Belt and Castle mountains, and the town is at the headwaters of the Smith River. A float trip down Smith River Canyon is billed as a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s a top-trout stream for any fishers in the bunch. It’s absolutely beautiful, surrounded by multiple trout streams, four reservoirs and four lakes, and hundreds of miles and miles of National Forest land and trails, greater Meagher County is a fine place to get away outdoors. Info: meagherchamber.org.
Venture 30 minutes east of White Sulphur Springs, in Martinsdale, and you’ll find the Bair Museum, presenting the Native American collection, modern European and American paintings and Western paintings of the Charles M. Bair family in the family home. Artists on exhibit include Charles M. Russell, Henry Sharp and photographer Edward S. Curtis. A gift shop features books about the American West and its history by Montana authors, as well as baskets, jewelry and pottery. The museum, at 2751 Highway 294, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day, and Wednesday to Sunday through October. Info: bairfamilymuseum.org. DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 78 MILES • 1 HOUR 33 MINUTES
Soothe your sore muscles after a long day of adventuring and recreating by taking a dip in the Spa Hot Springs Motel’s downtown medicinal waters. There are two outdoor pools and another indoors, with temperatures ranging from 98 to 103 degrees. Open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. year-round, the pools are drained nightly. The chemistry of the waters reportedly rivals that of world-famous Baden-Baden, Germany. Info: spahotsprings.com.
TOUR THE BAIR MUSEUM
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
78 MILES • 1 HOUR 46 MINUTES
Yellowstone National Park is a must-see — there’s no doubt about it. And for good reason: America’s first national park contains some of the world’s most amazing wildlife and natural wonders, including plenty of bison, Old Faithful and more. Whether you have been there many times or have yet to go, Yellowstone is worth the summer crowds, and you have to visit if you’re anywhere near the area. Just be sure and do your homework on geyser timing, road closures and construction before you go. Escape the crowds and grab a book on day hikes through Yellowstone for optimum viewing pleasure. The park website, nps.gov/yell is the source for information, including weather conditions, road closures and an interactive map to help you plan your visit.
BRUSH UP ON YOUR YELLOWSTONE KNOWLEDGE
Yellowstone Forever, formerly the Yellowstone Association, offers multi-day small group courses and field seminars yearround that give people an insider’s look at the park. The organization’s single and multiday tours for families and small groups have long garnered wonderful reviews, as have the lodging and learning programs offered with park hotels. Be sure and book these in advance. Info: www.yellowstone.org.
TAKE A DIP IN THE WATER
Get out early, when it’s cool, to visit the famous Boiling River, where the Gardner River meets the thermal river, creating ideal warm soaking conditions. It’s on the river near the Montana/Wyoming border. Look for all the parked cars near the roadway, hike toward the river and you’re there. As a rule, wear water shoes or sandals; the rocks are sharp and slippery. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes unless you want to change in the lone outhouse. Bring water bottles. Alcohol is not allowed.
HIKE LAID-BACK, EASY TRAILS
Taking a hike in the park is a great way to take a break from some of the crowds that congregate at roadside attractions. Get off the beaten path and take one of the many short trails leading to lesser-known spots. Some favorites are Trout Lake beyond the Lamar Valley, Lone Star Geyser near Old Faithful, Pelican Creek at Lake, Undine Falls and Wraith Falls between Mammoth and Tower Junction, and Cascade Lake Trail (4 miles) near Canyon Junction.
SPOT SOME WILDLIFE
Get up early for prime wildlife viewing. Those up before dawn and out after 7 a.m. have the best chance at the sighting bears, moose and wolves of Yellowstone, as that’s when those animals are most active. The
Lamar and Hayden valleys are prime spots for looking. Carry binoculars and if you’re going to hike bring bear spray.
TAKE IN THE WONDERS OF OLD FAITHFUL
Travel near the center of the park, on the lower western loop of the park road system, to visit Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser, which goes off “faithfully” about every 90 minutes. Most people see it up close, but there are many ways to mix things up and view it in new ways. Thirty to 60 minutes before an eruption, go into Old Faithful Inn and stake out a seat on the second story balcony. Send one of your group back inside for coffee treats or other libations on the second floor or ice cream on the first floor and watch the eruption in style. Another option is to take the switchback trail to Observation Point for a distant view without the crowds. It’s about 2 miles up and back. You’ll want to start the climb 30 minutes before an eruption. The Old Faithful Visitor Center features dynamic exhibits about the park’s hydrothermal features and keeps track of the eruptions of Old Faithful and many other geysers. Visit www.nps.gov/yell/ planyourvisit/hours.htm for up-to-date hours and information.
VIEW THE GIANT YELLOWSTONE LAKE
Travel to a whole new landscape a little way past Old Faithful to find Yellowstone Lake. The pristine lake is beautiful and inviting, but it’s also deathly cold. Divers beware: The average year-round temperature of the lake is 43 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning a person can survive in the water for 30 minutes or less. With a surface area of 136 square miles, it’s the continent’s largest lake at high elevation. Boat tours and fishing are options at Bridge Bay Marina. Or just drive the shoreline between West Thumb and Lake, taking time to stop at the thermal features. Have lunch at the beautiful Lake Hotel; it’s not as crowded then. There’s great shopping in the hotel gift shop too.
BUTTE AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 85 MILES • 1 HOUR 18 MINUTES
You’d be hard-pressed to find people who love their town more than those from Butte. It was once one of the world’s largest copper producing districts, and much of its past can still be experienced today. From the late 1800s to early 1900s, the copper and other precious metals mined from the nearby hills made Butte one of the largest cities west of the Mississippi. The county’s population peaked at 60,000 in 1920 and the mining heritage left many marks on the landscape and tons of history for daytrippers to explore. Hunt for crystals at Crystal Park near Wise River. For an outdoorsy day trip, seek out the Humbug Spires south of Butte and the Pipestone area east of town for rock climbing opportunities. Near Pipestone, explore the Ringing Rocks, which chime when tapped lightly with a hammer. Info: buttecvb.com.
EXPLORE THE MUSEUMS
The Piccadilly Transportation Memorabilia Museum, 20 W. Broadway St., features a wide array of antique transportation artifacts and memorabilia from around the world, including U.S. and international highway and subway markers, license plates, vintage cars and a replica of a rural filling station. It’s open Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Memorial Day through Oct. 1. Info: www.piccmuseum.com.
The World Museum of Mining, at 155 Museum Way, tells the story of Butte and legacy of its rich mining and cultural heritage. It’s located on a mine yard and features 50 exhibit buildings, 66 primary exhibits and countless artifacts, and an underground mine tour. It’s open daily April 1 through Oct. 31. Children under 5 can tour the museum but not the mine. Info: www. miningmuseum.org.
The Jefferson Valley Museum is located just about 30 minutes southeast of Butte in Whitehall, and depicts the history of the Jefferson Valley’s first fur trappers and miners, the railroad and more, in a restored 1914 barn. The museum, at 303 S. Division, is open Tuesday-Sunday, Memorial Day-Sept. 15. Info: 406-287-7813.
The Montana Tech Mineral Museum, located
next to Main Hall on campus, displays rocks and minerals from Montana and around the world. Open daily June 15-Sept. 15, weekdays the rest of the year. Info: http://www.mbmg.mtech.edu/.
SLEEP UNDER THE STARS
Soak or slide at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, just west of Butte. The resort has golf, tennis, restaurants, four indoor and outdoor pools and a 350-foot enclosed water slide. The resort is also close to hiking, fishing and Georgetown Lake. Info: www.fairmontmontana.com. Butte’s National Forest Service camping opportunities include:
Beaver Dam Campground
Seven miles west of Butte on Interstate 90, then 12 miles south on Interstate 15, then six miles west on Divide Creek Road . Info: 406-494-2147.
Lowland Campground
Eight miles north of Butte off Interstate 15, then six miles west on Forest Service Road 442, then left onto Forest Service Road 9485. Info: 406-4942147
VISIT THE PIT
Full of history, the Berkeley Pit is a sight to behold. A former open pit copper mine and federal Superfund site, it is 7,000 feet long, 5,600 feet wide and 1,600 feet deep, and filled with water that is as acidic as cola or lemon juice. Visitors stand on a platform to view it. Cost is $2 a person; the platform is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June through September. Info: 406-723-3177, pitwatch.org.
TAKE THE TROLLEY TOUR
Want to see Butte the way residents did 100 years ago? Old No. 1 Trolley offers two-hour tours through Butte’s National Historic Landmark District, past the Copper King Mansion, Dumas Brothel, World Museum of Mining, Mai Wah Museum, Berkeley Pit and more as guides share tales of Butte’s characters, famous folk and scoundrels. Call 406-723-3177 to make a reservation. Info: www. buttechambersite.org/ the-trolley.
TAKE YOUR TOUR UNDERGROUND
Go deeper into the Butte’s past and see the
seedier side of the historic city. This is Old Butte Historical Adventures’ most popular tour, taking in a below-street barbershop, the former jail and the Roarin’ ’20s Rookwood Speakeasy. The company offers two more 90-minute historical tours taking in different aspects of Butte’s industrial and cultural past. All are walking tours, led by local historians. Offered Monday through Saturday, and Sunday by reservation only, all summer. Info: buttetour. info, 406-498-3424. Call for the most up-to-date information and hours.
MEANDER THROUGH A MANSION
It’s hard to comprehend the enormity of an old Copper King’s wealth in Butte until visiting the Copper King Mansion. The four-story, brick construction began in 1884 and finished in 1888. The cost was about half a million dollars at the time, roughly half a day’s income for owner William Andrews Clark, who made his fortune in mining and banking ventures. Today, the 34room Victorian mansion at 219 W. Granite St. is a lavishly decorated bed and breakfast. Visit www. copperkingmansion.com for the most up-to-date info on tours and hours. Clark built Butte’s other impressive mansion, the 26-room Clark Chateau, for his son Charles and daughter-in-law Katherine. Over the years it served as the Butte College of Music and a center for the arts. The chateau is now the home to The Root & The Bloom Collective, a group dedicated to transforming the building into a haven for the humanities, and the Mining City Writing Project. It is open from noon to 4 p.m., Thursday through Sunday in summer, with a single daily tour at 1 p.m. Guides lead groups through the building’s infinite nooks and crannies, discussing the history of Butte as seen through the windows of one of the city’s most cherished architectural icons. Info: clarkchateaubutte.wordpress.com.
SEE A DRIVE-IN MOVIE
Safely enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car at the Silver Bow Drive-In. The theater is open seasonally, just a few minutes south of Butte on German Gulch Road. Movies are $7 per person and free for kids 3 and under. Cash only. Info: silverbowdrivein.com.
WEST YELLOWSTONE AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 86
MILES • 1 HOUR 45 MINUTES
Need to make a pit stop? West Yellowstone is the perfect place to stretch your legs and prepare for the next leg of your adventure, whether you’re entering or exiting the park. There are several one-of-a-kind attractions, restaurants and souvenir shops here, and it’s a great escape if the park is crowded. This small walking community is 10 blocks by 10 blocks, and it is making a major name for itself. With activities ranging from fishing, golf and mini golf, to horseback riding, rafting and kayaking, West Yellowstone can get your adrenaline up and keep you entertained. It’s been welcoming Yellowstone visitors since the early 1900s, and now hosts about 4 million visitors a year. Info: www.destinationyellowstone.com.
SEE QUAKE LAKE FOR YOURSELF
On Aug. 17, 1959, a massive earthquake struck about 24 miles north of West Yellowstone. Eighty million tons of rock slid into the Madison River Canyon gorge, killing 28 people and blocking the river, forming six-mile-long Quake Lake. Today, it’s stocked with cutthroat and brown trout for anglers. The National Forest Service visitor center has great interpretive exhibits and films, and an informative walking trail. It’s open daily until 6 p.m. through Sept. 30. Info: https://www.visitmt.com/listings/general/ lake/earthquake-lake.
VISIT THE GRIZZLY & WOLF DISCOVERY CENTER
To learn more about some of Yellowstone’s most iconic wildlife, visit the nonprofit Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, home to several bears, wolves, birds of prey and a riparian river otter exhibit. A top attraction in town, the center features a variety of programs and a permanent exhibit. It’s open 365 days a year, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.. Info: https://www. grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/.
SEE IT ON THE BIG SCREEN
Visit the only giant-screen movie theater in the 12-state area, which stands six stories tall. During the day, enjoy nature films, and by night, you can view the latest feature films, Info: www. yellowstonegiantscreen.com
GO FOR A BIKE RIDE
See many of the area’s popular backcountry ski trails in a new way by hopping on a bike, in the summer. The West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation, organized in the 1990s to promote cross country skiing, also promotes biking in the summer. The Rendezvous Trails System and Continental Divide Trail, so popular with winter recreationists, are great for summer biking. If road biking is more your thing, the organization recommends the Around the Block tour along 60 miles of mountain roads that take you over Targhee Pass, along Henry’s Lake in Idaho, and then along Hebgen and Quake lakes before you return to West. It’s hard, but so much fun. If you always thought you’d like to try a biking/
shooting version of the Olympic biathlon, the Ski Education Foundation runs a Mountain Bike Biathlon in July. It’s great for novices and for experienced biathlon athletes looking for a practice run. Get info on all these options at http://www.skirunbikemt. com/.
GLAMP IT UP
Want to get outdoors but pitching a tent and roughing it not really for you? Try “glamping” instead. Under Canvas has one of its five Western U.S. campsites just 10 minutes from West Yellowstone, in a quiet, secluded site with great views and an onsite restaurant. There’s another location near Glacier National Park. They offer upscale tipis and tents, luxury linens and private bathrooms with running water, to name a few amenities. The accommodations sleep up to four people each, and pets are allowed for an additional fee. Open through early September. Info: undercanvas.com.
GIDDY UP AT THE RODEO
The Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo, 6.5 miles west of town on Highway 20, is a performance rodeo with the full rodeo experience, including bareback bronc riding, barrel racing, team roping, breakaway roping, bull riding, saddle bronc riding and a calf scramble for all the kids in the audience. Performances start at 8 p.m., four to five days a week from June 14 to Aug. 17. Tickets are available in advance or at the gate. Info: www.yellowstonerodeo.com.
ORDER FROM THE SODA FOUNTAIN
Get yourself an old-fashioned soda from the Eagles Store, 3 Canyon St., which has served up fizzy or sweet drinks from an old-fashioned soda fountain since 1910. Parts of the building date to 1908, and it’s on the National Register of Historic Places. Sit on a period stool at the 1930s-tiled counter and enjoy a chocolate soda or a malt made the old-fashioned way. Info: m.facebook.com/EagleStoreWY/.
TAKE A DIP IN HEBGEN LAKE
Just about a 20-mile drive west of West Yellowstone, this 12,000-acre lake has been called the premier stillwater fishing lake in Montana. It has a healthy population of browns, cutthroats and rainbows and
is a popular spot for boating, camping and fishing. Be sure to bring your rod and tackle box. Info: www. visitmt.com/listings/general/lake/hebgen-lake.html.
FLY THROUGH THE TREES
Aerial Adventures offers high ropes and zipline adventures up among the trees in West Yellowstone. Stay and play or come and go day passes are available, along with multi-day admissions. There’s an option for zipline and rafting or horseback riding combo packages too. The sluice mining area is fun for the whole family. Info: www. yellowstoneparkzipline.com.
YELLOWSTONE HISTORIC CENTER
Go back in history and discover the history of Yellowstone National Park at the Yellowstone Historic Center, located in the Union Pacific Railroad Depot at 104 Yellowstone Ave. It’s open daily through Oct. 6, with displays of old stagecoaches and freight wagons and stories of the early park visitors and Union Pacific Railroad staff. Info: www. yellowstonehistoriccenter.org.
VENTURE TO ISLAND PARK
Head west of West over Targhee Pass, and you’ll find yourself in Island Park, Idaho, a place of dense, lush pine forests and fishing streams, three lakes, beautiful resorts like Lakeside Lodge and a 35-milelong Main Street. Sitting inside a caldera formed in prehistoric times when a volcano collapsed, it’s a great place to explore and avoid the crowds of the park. The Henry’s Fork of the Snake River is world-famous for fly fishing. Nearby Henry’s Fork Lake State Park, north of Island Park along Highway 87, is another casting dream spot. It has a modern fish cleaning station near the boat ramp. You can either rent a cabin or pitch a tent, there are plenty of options. The park is open through mid-October. Info: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov. For one of our favorite drives, take the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, offering views of Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, which drop 106 and 65 feet respectively. Visit Big Springs for another water adventure, where 120 million gallons of water bubble up to the surface each day. There’s a lovely 5-mile waterway for canoeing or boating, plus bicycle and hiking options not far away.
And don’t miss a visit to beautiful Johnny Sack Cabin, built by the exacting German cabinet maker. Info: islandparkidaho.com.
TOUR BY TRAIN OR TROLLEY
See Helena the way it would have historically been traveled by hopping aboard the Last Chance Train and Trolley Tour, which takes visitors on one-hour trolley tours of historic Helena via open-air trains and climate-controlled trolley. It will operate through the summer. Visit lctours.com for more info.
SPEND THE DAY AT A MUSEUM
Montana’s Museum
225 N. Roberts
Montana’s memory lives at the Montana Historical Society Museum, with a collection of more than 50,000 artifacts and one of the country’s largest collections of Charles M. Russell art in the Mackay Gallery. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A combo ticket includes the Original Governor’s Mansion. Info: mhs.mt.gov/Museum.
ENJOY THE ARBORETUM
Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum has a dozen themed gardens, including rose, herb, butterfly and meditation gardens. There is also a garden center for home growers. The gardens are at 38 Tizer Lake Rd., off Interstate 15 south of Helena in Jefferson City. Info: www.tizergardens.com .
PAY RESPECTS TO MONTANA’S FIRST LADY OF FILM
The Myrna Loy Center is a movie theater, art gallery and setting for live performances, Located in the historic Lewis and Clark County Jail, 15 N. Ewing St., downtown. Loy, who was born in Radersburg, Montana, 40 miles southwest of Helena, was a leading star of Hollywood in 1930s and 40s, most famous for her role as Nora Charles in “The Thin Man” series. Info: myrnaloycenter.com.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN CONTEMPORARY ART
The Holter Museum, 12 E. Lawrence St., is open
from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. With changing exhibits and a permanent collection showcasing the contemporary work of Western artists of the last 75 years. Admission is free. Info: www.holtermuseum. org.
REST AND RELAX ON THE RESERVOIR
With 33,500 surface acres of water and 96 shoreline miles, Canyon Ferry Reservoir offers fishing opportunities for rainbow trout, perch, ling and walleye. Boat ramps, day-use areas, swimming holes and marinas dot the area. Canyon Ferry Reservoir is 20 miles east of Helena off Highway 287. Info: www.usbr.gov/gp/mtao/canyonferry.
STROLL LAST CHANCE GULCH
Downtown Helena is a great place to stretch your legs, grab some ice cream, buy a book, visit a candy store or whatever else you might feel like doing. It stretches on for blocks.
SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
About 30 minutes south of Helena, Montana’s historic Boulder Hot Springs Inn and Spa, 31 Hot Springs Road, sits on nearly 300 acres of pristine wetlands, meadows and forest. The inn features a mineral-laden geothermal outdoor pool, and indoor plunges, as well as steam rooms and spa services. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through October. Info: www.boulderhotsprings.com.
ENTER INTO THE GATES OF THE MOUNTAINS
This area is majestic. Explorer Meriwether Lewis was struck by the steep canyon walls and towering rock formations and named this spot along the Missouri River Gate of the Mountains, which he observed during his famous expedition with William Clark in 1804 to 1806. He noted in his journal that “in many places, the rocks seem ready to tumble on us.” Bring binoculars — it’s a great place to spot bighorn sheep and mountain goats; ospreys,
eagles, falcons and dozens of other bird species; and otters. Boat tours of the area, 16 miles north of Helena off Interstate 15, are offered daily through September. The tour passes Mann Gulch, where 13 smokejumpers died in 1949; Norman Maclean tells their story in “Young Men & Fire.” Info: https:// gatesofthemountains.com.
SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS
The Archie Bray Foundation, on the National Register of Historic Places, is a wonderful hidden gem for those who love ceramic art. Take a stroll around its grounds and view the beautiful, everchanging array of sculptures. It is dedicated to the enrichment of the ceramic arts and attracts ceramic artists from all over the world to work and study. The Bray sells pottery and sculptures and offers classes, workshops and exhibitions for the public. It’s at 2915 Country Club Ave. Info: www.archiebray.org.
VISIT THE CAPITOL
The Capitol Building, 1301 E. 6th Ave., is open for guided tours during June, July and August at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday - Friday. The main section of the capitol was completed in 1902. Its two wings were completed in 1912. As is customary in American statehouses, Montana’s capitol is adorned with a variety of murals and statues that embellish its grandest spaces. Self-guiding tour booklets and a scavenger hunt for kids led by Lewis and Clark’s intrepid Newfoundland, Seaman, are available at the information desk on the first floor. Info: mhs.mt.gov/ education/Capitol.
RIDE THE CAROUSEL
Looking for a fun place to take the kids? Great Northern Carousel, a modern, hand-built, 40-foot carousel with 37 hand-carved and hand-painted wooden animals that can be found in Montana, including a grizzly bear and cutthroat trout. The carousel is adjacent to the Great Northern Ice Cream Co., 989 Carousel Way. For more information, visit www.gncarousel.com.
TWIN BRIDGES AREA
JUMP IN A LAKE
The Ruby Reservoir is nine miles south of Alder (which is south of Twin Bridges). The reservoir has boat access and is a great place to go on a hot, humid summer day. It’s stocked with trout and offers good fishing when water level permits. Because it is in a remote location, the reservoir receives only moderate use. Info: 406-683-8000.
VISIT THE TWIN BRIDGES HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION AND MUSEUM
The volunteer-run Twin Bridges Historical Association at 202 Main St. is open from 1 to 5 p.m. daily, Memorial Day through Labor Day. It was created in 1996 to conserve, restore and put on display objects and artifacts relating to area history of the area. Admission is free. Info: 406684-5121.
DINE AT THE WAGON WHEEL
Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can get it at the Wagon Wheel Steakhouse & BBQ, 207 N. Main St. Marvin Elser and his family are the new owners. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday, serving brick-oven-baked pizzas and prime rib every day. It’s known for smoked ribs, pulled pork and house-made seasonings. Info: https:// www.facebook.com/WagonWheelMontana/
For all fly fishing lovers, know Twin Bridges is a must-visit town. Set near the confluence of the Beaverhead, Big Hole and Ruby rivers, which come together to form the Jefferson River, the area is a great place to bring your pole and tackle box. An area attraction is Beaverhead Rock State Park. The named rock was recognized by Sacajawea, who knew it for its resemblance to the head of a swimming beaver, while traveling with the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. The park is 14 miles south of Twin Bridges on Highway 41. Info: stateparks. mt.gov/beaverhead-rock. Area info: www. rubyvalleychamber.com.
HELENA AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 97 MILES • 1 HOUR 41 MINUTES
Montana’s state capitol is rich with history and well worth a trip, if you have the time. Owing its existence to the discovery of precious metals nearby, the 1864 gold strike led to Helena being known as the “Queen City of the Rockies” and the state’s capitol was moved from Virginia City to Helena in 1875. In 1898, ground was broken for the Capitol Building. Helena offers a variety of activities for daytrippers, including 80 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails that start downtown, with another 400 miles of trails in the area. Visit bikehelena. com for maps and routes. The Visitor Information Center, 105 Reeders Alley, is open June to August, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Info: www.helenamt.com.
ANACONDA AREA
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
108 MILES • 1 HOUR 40 MINUTES
Anaconda is another place where you’ll find dedicated residents who love where they live. Anaconda is home to one of the tallest freestanding brick structures in the world. The Anaconda Smelter Stack, at 100 Smelter Road, stands 585 feet tall, 30 feet taller than the Washington National Monument. The town of Anaconda sprang up in the early 1880s when the Anaconda Copper Mining Co. of Butte needed a smelter for its copper ore. Copper King Marcus Daly, who founded it, wanted to name it Copperopolis, but the name was already taken. Smelting operations were suspended in 1980, but the stack remains as a landmark and state park. The historic structure may be viewed and photographed from a distance; historic signs detail its history. Info: stateparks. mt.gov/anaconda-smoke-stack. City info: www. discoveranaconda.com.
SEE A MOVIE IN STYLE
The Washoe Theatre, 305 Main St., is one of the country’s great movie palaces. It was built in 1931 in the Nuevo Deco style, but didn’t open until 1936 due to the Depression. Designed by esteemed theater architect B. Marcus Priteca, it is decorated with murals and ornamented in silver, copper and gold leaf. Info: www. washoetheatre.com, 406-563-6161.
VISIT AN OLD PRISON
Located at 1106 Main St. in nearby Deer Lodge, the Old Prison Museum complex takes up six city blocks, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready to walk. Once the state prison, the old brick structures behind the gray stone wall were mainly built by inmates. The actual Old Prison Museum houses the intimidating Cell House and Black Box of maximum security. This museum is open daily, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Also here, and open through Oct. 31, are the Montana Auto Museum, displaying more than 150 classic cars; the Frontier Museum, displaying the artifacts of real cowboys, Native Americans and frontiersmen and women, dating from 1829 to 1900, plus hundreds of handguns and rifles and an exhibit on Yellowstone National Park’s Official Photographers: Frank and Jack Haynes; Yesterday’s Playthings, displaying dolls and toys dating to 1835, a model railroad and a case of antique Hot Wheels Cars; and the Powell County Museum, which tells the history of Deer Lodge Valley. Info: pcmaf.org.
GOLF A NICKLAUS COURSE
Old Works is Montana’s only Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, rated Montana’s No. 1 course by Golf Week Magazine. Golfers need to experience playing a ball out of the “black slag bunkers.” Old Works is at 1205 Pizzini Way. Info: www.playoldworks.com
SKATE AT THE SNAKE PIT
Looking to try something new? Why not try skateboarding? The city’s 4,000-square-foot skate park, the Smelter City Skate Pit, aka the
“Snake Pit” in Benny Goodman Park, features a street section with mini ramps perfect for beginners and a more challenging bowl area. It is open from 6 a.m. to midnight, with special hours for BMX riders. If your kids are smaller, check out the hiking trail and playgrounds at Washoe Park.
BE A RANCH HAND
Visit the historic Grant-Kohrs Ranch, 266 Warren Lane in Deer Lodge, which is a working ranch celebrating the cowboy and cattleman’s West. It’s operated by the National Park Service and open from 9 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. in the summer months. Summer events include branding day with calf branding and family activities, Junior Ranger Day and Haying with Horses demonstration days. Ranger led tours are offered daily, including the wagon tour, chuckwagon talk, cowboy talk, blacksmith talk and main ranch house tour. Info: www.nps.gov/ grko.
DRIVE THE PINTLER SCENIC LOOP
Though less popular than the state’s national parks, the Pintlers are another hidden gem in Montana. Make sure to take the Pintler Scenic Loop, a 63-mile drive from Anaconda through Philipsburg to Drummond. It follows Flint Creek and passes beautiful scenery and historic spots. The road travels through both conifer-clad mountains and sage-covered hills and is a nice alternative to Interstate 90 when traveling between Butte and Missoula. Feeling adventurous? Pull over at a trailhead and go on a hike.
DIP IN THE POOL AT ELKHORN
Be sure and carve out some time in your day to soak at Elkhorn Hot Springs in the Grasshopper Valley. There are two outdoor natural hot springs ranging in temperature from 80 to 98 degrees. Stay all night in a cabin or at the lodge. The indoor Grecian/wet sauna ranges from 98-107 degrees. There’s a restaurant too. Elkhorn Hot Springs is southwest of Dillon off Highway 278 in Polaris. Info: https://elkhornhotsprings.com.
VISIT THE BEAVERHEAD COUNTY MUSEUM
At the Beaverhead County Museum, you’ll find a number of exhibits, including an authentic homesteader’s cabin, mining and agriculture equipment. Enjoy a picnic in the pavilion. Additions to the museum include a Lewis and Clark diorama, a natural history exhibit and a small theater, a one-room schoolhouse, and a 1909 Union Pacific Depot. It’s open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: https:// www.beaverheadcountymuseum.com/
TAKE IN SOME ART
The restored Fine Art Gallery at University of Montana-Western Museum, 710 S. Atlantic, is actually two galleries, one with works by students and contemporary artists and the others with pieces from the university’s collection, including John Buck, Salvador Dali, Henry Gorski, Yotoshi Mori and Monte Dolak. Info: www.umwestern.edu/section/fine-artsgallery.
EXPLORE A GHOST TOWN
Bannack is incredibly well-preserved. Founded in 1862 when John White discovered gold at Grasshopper Creek, it is located 25 miles southwest of Dillon. It became a state park during the 1950s. It holds a variety of events and activities. Bannack also has guided and selfguided tours, gold panning and more. Info: www. bannack.org.
HUNT FOR CRYSTALS
It’s hand tools only at 220-acre Crystal State
Park, a special area in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest specially set aside for people to seek out the crystal quartz that’s unique to the area. The crystals can be tiny or a couple of inches long and clear, cloudy, white, gray or purple. Info: www.fs.usda.gov/activity/bdnf/ recreation/rocks-minerals.
BE CLARK AT THE LOOKOUT
Pretend to be Capt. William Clark, of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, who climbed a hill overlooking the Beaverhead River on Aug. 13, 1805, to get a sense of the route ahead. Now it’s Clark’s Lookout State Park, at 25 Clark’s Lookout Road. There’s a hiking trail, a monument showing the three compass readings he took that day, and interpretive signs that explain the navigational methods used by the expedition. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/clarks-lookout.
BIRD WATCH IN THE RED ROCKS
Drive south of Dillon on Interstate 15, past Lima, and some miles down a dirt road is Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, home to several hundred trumpeter swans, who like the area’s spring-warmed open waters all year. It’s all dirt roads, though, so it’s best to only visit when it’s safe in summer. The landscape is a mix of wetlands, grasslands, marshes and forests, surrounded by mountains. Hiking is lovely; so is the solitude. Just outside the refuge, Elk Lake is a good place to watch for moose and eagles. Be prepared for any kind of weather, pack your own supplies and have a good map. Info: www.fws. gov/refuge/Red_Rock_Lakes.
DILLON AREA
DISTANCE FROM
BOZEMAN
115 MILES • 1 HOUR 51 MINUTES
Dillon is a treasure trove, full of cute shops, fishing and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Forbes Magazine named Dillon one of “America’s Prettiest Little Towns” in 2010 for a reason. It has mountain backdrops in all directions and is situated in a sweeping valley into which the Ruby, Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers drain. The town’s conventional main street has buildings dating to Montana’s gold rush era. Today, daytrippers can drop a line in world-class fly fishing holes, explore hiking trails teeming with wildlife and dig for crystals in the mountainside. If you need gear, head to the Patagonia Outlet Store, open daily and now located at 16 S. Idaho. Afterward, we recommend stopping at The Taco Bus, 510 N. Montana St., for a bite to eat. Info: southwestmt. com/communities/dillon.htm.
FISHTAIL AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 122 MILES • 1 HOUR 53 MINUTES
Visitors will find that Fishtail lives up to its name’s promise. This little town on the edge of the Absaroka Beartooth Mountains within the Custer National Forest is known for its fishing in the Stillwater River and Fiddler and Rock creeks, and day hikes. Many enjoy the Pine Grove and Emerald Lake campgroups. There are guest lodges and cabins in the area, too. One of the newest additions to the area is the Tippet Rise Art Center. Read on to learn more.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN OUTDOOR ART
Tippet Rise Art Center is a special place. Set on a 12,000-acre working sheep and cattle ranch, it holds classical chamber music and recitals and exhibits large-scale, outdoor sculptures by the likes of Patrick Dougherty, Stephen Talasnik, Mark di Suvero, Ensamble Studio and Alexander Calder. It is open from June 14 to Sept. 15. Check the website for updates and online offerings: tippetrise.org.
PATRON A HISTORIC GENERAL STORE
An economic hub of the town is the Fishtail General Store, located in the same place for more than a century. The original wood-burning potbelly stove is still in use. Stop in for camping, hunting and fishing supplies, and licenses, crafts, toys and clothing, specialty meats, fresh-baked cookies and hand-dipped ice cream cones. Long tables and outdoor picnic tables provide a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Info: https:// www.facebook.com/search/top?q=fishtail%20 general%20store.
PHILIPSBURG AREA
SATISFY YOUR SWEET TOOTH
Did you really go to Philipsburg if you didn’t stop by the Sweet Palace? The town’s wellknown, hand-crafted candy shop has been open since 1998 at 109 E. Broadway, offering chocolates, fudge, hard candy, taffy and more. Closed Saturdays. Info: www.sweetpalace.com.
TRY A LOCAL BREW
To chat with locals and grab a delicious beer, check out the local microbrewery, Philipsburg Brewing Company, at 101 W. Broadway St. in the historical Sayers Building. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
GET SPOOKED IN A GHOST TOWN
Granite Ghost Town is a fun place to get lost for the day. A steep, narrow winding road that gains 1,280 feet leads to the state park outside town; be prepared to pull over for oncoming traffic. The old silver mining boom town is a shadow of its former self, but significant ruins remain. If not for a misplaced telegram from the backers telling the miners to halt operations, the $40,000,000 strike might have been missed entirely. Bring a camera. The park is open Memorial Day through September 30. Info: http://stateparks.mt.gov/granite-ghost-town.
SPEND AN AFTERNOON AT A MUSEUM
Spend some time wandering around a couple of Philipsburg’s two museums. The first is the Granite County Museum, 135 S. Sansome, which tells the history of the area in artifacts and photos. Memorial Day through September, it’s
open from noon to 4 p.m. daily. The other is the Montana Law Enforcement Museum, 212 E. Broadway, which explores the history of law enforcement in the state. Admission is free; the museum is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday.
MINE AWAY
The Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine, “Montana’s oldest, largest and funnest,” is 22 miles outside town on the Skalkaho Highway, and open through Sept. 2 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday. Pay $25 for a bucket of gravel and mine to your heart’s content. Or visit the shop in town, at 204 W. Broadway, where the buckets of gravel are $30. Info: gemmountainmt. com. Another option is Montana Gem, 201 W. Broadway, offering fun for all in a running water full of fun geodes and gifts. Info: montanagems. net.
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
138 MILES • 2 HOUR 28 MINUTES
With a small but active downtown, a great brewery and a ghost town nearby, Philipsburg is the quintessential day trip destination. Located on Highway 1, the Pintler Veterans Memorial Scenic Highway, between Anaconda and Drummond, Philipsburg has been voted one of the Prettiest Painted Places in the U.S. The town was named for mining engineer Philip Deidesheimer, who designed and supervised the ore smelter the town grew up around. Silver mining was once the draw. Today visitors can hunt for Montana sapphires. Fishing, bicycling, rockhounding, birding, hiking, camping and fishing any of the nearby 75 named lakes and reservoirs are popular things to do. The downtown area is also filled with fun shops to explore, and has an excellent brewery where you’re sure to find great people and great dogs. Info: visitphilipsburg.com.
BILLINGS AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 146 MILES • 2 HOUR 14 MINUTES
Spend some time in Montana’s largest city, with a population of more than 104,000. There’s access to plenty of amazing outdoor areas, with 120,000-acre Big Horn Canyon Recreational Area nearby. It also has a home base with culture and nightlife. With endless recreational opportunities like hiking, biking and camping, as well as theaters, sporting events, historical sites and more, there is never a shortage of activities. Be sure and spend some time on the Rims, if you get the chance. We promise you won’t regret it. Info: visitbillings.com.
SEE CLARK’S SIGNATURE
History buffs and Lewis and Clark fans flock here. Pompey’s Pillar National Monument overlooks the Yellowstone River, about 25 miles northeast of Billings. The sandstone pillar features Native American petroglyphs and the signature of William Clark, co-leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A boardwalk leads to Capt. Clark’s signature and to the top of the pillar, which is the last physical evidence of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Trails lead visitors past a replica of Capt. Clark’s canoes and to a view of the 670 mile-long Yellowstone River. The interpretive center contains information about the expedition. Info: www.pompeyspillar.org.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN HERITAGE
Located in the turreted, historic Parmly Billings Memorial Library Building, 2822 Montana Ave., the Western Heritage Museum is a Smithsonian affiliate containing more than 16,000 historic artifacts and 1,000 photos. Exhibits ae ever changing, both onsite and online. Info: www. ywhc.org.
CHECK OUT THE REGION’S LARGEST FAIR
MontanaFair is the region’s largest event with attendance of a quarter million people each year. It features carnival rides, food, agricultural exhibits, a lineup of star entertainment at Rimrock Auto Arena, PRCA Rodeo and more. This year, the fair is Aug. 9 to 17. Info: www. montanafair.com.
GRAB A BEER IN THE BREWERY DISTRICT
Check out this self-guided, 1.5-mile tour in the Brewery District. The walk takes you to six breweries and two distilleries, so you may indeed want to walk it and have someone drive you to your overnight accommodation afterward. The stops are: Montana Brewing, Thirsty Street Brewing, Angry Hank’s, Carter’s Brewing, Uberbrew, Yellowstone Valley Brewing and Spirit of Montana Distilling and Trailhead Spirits. You can start at the Park Two Garage, 2651 1st Ave. N. Info: http://www.visitbillings.com/brew-tour. php.
SPLISH SPLASH
The Reef Indoor Water Park, 1801 Majestic Lane, is the largest indoor water park in the state of Montana. It’s as big as a football field and includes four smaller slides, two three-story slides, a 55,000-gallon wave pool, an interactive playhouse with a 250-gallon water-dumping bucket, a 20-person hot tub, a café and more. Info: www.thereefindoors.com.
VISIT THE ZOO
Montana’s only zoo is ZooMontana, located on the west side of Billings at 2100 S. Shiloh Road. The 70-acre facility, featuring habitats for tigers, grizzly bears and more, is open year-round.
Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. ZooMontana debuted a new multi-acre bison exhibit in 2019, built to mimic the natural habitat of Yellowstone National Park. Info: www.zoomontana.org.
SIP ON SOME WINE
Yellowstone Cellars and Winery is run by fourth-generation Montanan Clint Peck, who ran cows for 30 years before switching to wine. The grapes come from Washington’s Yakima Valley, but all the crushing, fermenting, aging and bottling are done in Billings. Enjoy the tasting room, beginning at 1 p.m. daily. 1335 Holiday Circle. Info: yellowstonecellars.com.
PLAY IN COONEY RESERVOIR
Take the day off and relax, swim and sit in the sun at Cooney Reservoir. Located just 40 miles south of Billings, it is a popular spot for boating, fishing, camping and just playing in the water. The reservoir features walleye and rainbow trout fishing and scenic mountain views. Activities include bird watching, picnicking, wildlife viewing, bicycling, canoeing and more. Info: https://fwp.mt.gov/ for more information.
ROOT FOR THE MUSTANGS
Root for the Billings Mustangs, the Pioneer League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, at Dehler Park, 2611 Ninth Ave. N. Games run through Sept. 1. The Mustangs have won 15 Pioneer League
titles, more than any other team in the Pioneer League. Seven former Mustangs were recently on the Major League roster: Joey Votto, Tucker Barnhart, Amir Garrett, Jesse Winker, Tyler Mahle Alex Blandino, & Robert Stephenson. Info: www. milb.com/billings.
MAKE YOUR WAY TO MOSS MANSION
Preston Boyd Moss built the three-story, 28room Moss Mansion, 914 Division St., in 1903. Today, the house and its original fixtures remain intact and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The home represents early Billings development and culture but also interprets the inner workings of the family through various letters and other documents preserved in Moss Mansion Museum archives. The mansion is open Tuesday to Sunday for self-guided tours. Guided tours are offered on Monday-Saturday at 1 p.m. Info: www. mossmansion.com
GET LOST AT THE ART MUSEUM
The Yellowstone Art Museum, 401 N. 27th St., collects, exhibits and interprets art, with an emphasis on progressive contemporary art from the Northern Rocky Mountains and Plains. Its Montana collection alone contains 2,000 pieces. It’s open daily except Mondays. Info: www. artmuseum.org.
CHECK OUT SOME CAVE DRAWINGS
Pictograph Cave State Park, 6 miles southeast of Billings, features 4,500-year-old cave drawings and archaeological information about the region’s prehistoric hunters and travelers. The park is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily Memorial Day through mid-September. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/pictograph-cave.
RED LODGE AREA
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN 146 MILES • 2
HOUR 14 MINUTES
Who couldn’t love Red Lodge? A cowboy town in the mountains, Red Lodge is all things Montana. This scenic town south of Laurel acts as a gateway to both Yellowstone National Park’s Northeast Entrance and the scenic Beartooth Highway. From the early 1890s through the 1930s, coal mining was the major industry. The Great Depression closed many of the mines, but a new era of prosperity began in 1936 with the opening of the Beartooth Highway, linking Red Lodge to Yellowstone. Daytrippers headed to Red Lodge will find many summer activities, including hiking, boating, climbing and fishing. Strolling downtown is always fun, too, with a wide variety of interesting shops and too many choices for fine dining and indulging your sweet tooth. At the Red Lodge Mountain Resort, the 18-hole public golf course hugs the Beartooth Mountains, offering 100-mile views that can make it hard to keep your eyes on the ball. Info and tee times: www.redlodgemountain. com. For more on the town and the area, visit www.redlodge.com or redlodgechamber.org.
GO TO THE RODEO
Looking for fun on the Fourth? Take in the 90th annual Home of Champions Rodeo. It features some of professional rodeo’s top cowboys and cowgirls Friday to Monday, July 1 to 4. There are parades in Red Lodge at noon July 2, 3 and 4. This year’s parade theme is “Home of Champions: Celebrating 95 Years of Riding and Roping.” Info: redlodgerodeo.com.
BET ON A PIG
The Bear Creek Saloon Pig Races and Steakhouse are well known in south-central Montana. Cheer on — or bet on — your favorite porker at Bear Creek Saloon and Steakhouse Thursday to Sunday through Labor Day. The saloon is 7 miles east of town on Highway 308. Info: www.redlodge.com/bearcreek
VISIT A WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
See how wild animals are taken care of when they can’t survive in the wild at Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, a public refuge. Among the residents are elk, gray wolves, black bears, owls and coyotes. The sanctuary is open for visitors every day except Tuesday. Tours and animal encounters are available. The address is 615 Second St. E. Info: www. yellowstonewildlifesanctuary.org.
BRUSH UP ON YOUR RODEO HISTORY
The Carbon County Historical Society Museum,
at 224 N. Broadway, features exhibits on rodeo, American Indians, homesteaders, guns, mining and more. It was established in 1959 by Alice Greenough to house the collection of her world-renowned rodeo family. It is open 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays. Info: www. carboncountyhistory.com.
FIND ART IN THE BEARTOOTHS
The Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery usually will holds its annual Labor Day Arts Fair, Sept. 2. Dozens of artists will converge on Lions Park, which is adjacent to the historic train depot where the Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery is located. Info: www. carboncountydepotgallery.org.
CRUISE DOWN THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY
The Beartooth Highway is one of Montana’s most scenic drives, with 68-mile, two-lane ramble from Red Lodge to Cooke City, through some of the highest, most beautifully rugged terrain in the Rockies. There are places to stop along the way, and it provides views of alpine forest and tundra and more than 20 peaks topping 12,000 feet, plus an incredible waterfall. It’s spectacular. Allow three hours to traverse the route one way and be sure to check the weather report for the day before you set out. To minimize any battle with the sun and glare, drive from Red Lodge to Cooke City (east to west) in the morning, and the reverse in the afternoon. The road closes for the year in early October, due to snow. Info: beartoothhighway.com.
LEWISTOWN AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN 162 MILES • 2 HOUR 42 MINUTES
If you’re looking to start your Montana trip right smack dab in the middle of the state, Lewistown is the place to go. It’s right at Montana’s heart. A quaint, small farming and ranching town, it’s surrounded by five mountain ranges and offers outdoor adventures from big game and bird hunting to fishing, camping, biking and hiking. A busy place with a strong sense of community, Lewistown offers western heritage and weekly happenings from area musicians, artists and craftspeople. Info: enjoylewistown.com.
TAKE IN THE TOWN
Lewistown is a great place to walk around. In the middle of town, the Frog Ponds offer walking trails and fishing ponds for all ages. The Lewistown Trails system connects more than 25 miles of walking and biking trails. The main trailhead is on Main Street next to the Yogo Inn. At Symmes Park, the farmers market is the place to be on Saturday mornings. The kids can park at the playground while adults shop for fruits, vegetables, jellies, syrups, flowers, herbs, baked items and crafts.
LEARN ABOUT FAMOUS FIGURES
The Central Montana Museum, 408 Northeast Main St., presents the region’s history since the 1870s, including famous visitors Calamity Jane, Kid Curry and Charlie Russell. One of its newest displays is a full-scale replica of the Torosaurus dinosaur skull found northeast of town. It is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Labor Day. Info: http:// centralmtmuseum.weebly.com/.
TAKE THE BALE TRAIL
This event was made for pun lovers. The Montana Bale Trail: What the Hay is a unique event in Hobson, west of Lewistown, on the first Sunday following Labor Day, which is also the same weekend as the Chokecherry Festival. It features the annual What the Hay contest, an amazing display of whimsical and punny hay sculpture over a 22 mile route from Hobson to Utica to Windham. People’s Choice Ballots are handed out at the contest entrances in Hobson and Windham. Info: https://centralmontana.com/ events/the-montana-bale-trail.
CELEBRATE THE CHOKECHERRIES
The 34th annual Lewistown Chokecherry Festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 7. With an outdoor pancake breakfast, culinary contest, pit spitting contest, a fun run and live entertainment, there’s a little something for everyone at the festival, from small tykes to grandpas. Info: lewistownchokecherry.com/.
ALL ABOARD THE CHEW CHOO
If you’re looking for a fun way to see some beautiful scenery and enjoy delicious food, look no further. The Charles Russell Chew Choo offers a 56-mile round-trip dinner train experience, complete with entertainment, every Saturday through Oct. 6. Cross two historic trestles and pass through a half-mile tunnel in the 3 1/2-hour trip while indulging in a prime rib dinner and dessert with a no-host cash bar. The train begins boarding at the Hanover Boarding Station one hour before departure. It is 10 miles from Main Street, Lewistown. Info: www.montanadinnertrain. com.
GET OUT INTO NATURE
Drive an hour north on Highway 191, you’ll find access to the million-acre Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. Named for the famous painter, its landscapes include the native prairies, forested coulees, river bottoms and badlands he depicted. It offers plenty of outdoor recreation and plentiful opportunities to glimpse wildlife and scores of bird species along the 20-mile selfguided auto route. Adjacent to it is the Upper Missouri Breaks Back Country Byway, a rugged, scenic 80-mile dirt road offering many great views. It’s all dirt though; high-clearance vehicles are recommended; four-wheel drive is best. Don’t attempt it if storms are threatening.
GREAT FALLS AREA
Great Falls played a major role in Lewis and Clark’s expedition, and the city is teeming with opportunities to explore that history. Great Falls is now called the “Electric City” because of its numerous dams and power plants along the Missouri River that flows through town. The five falls along it were a formidable barrier to early river travel; Lewis and Clark spent nearly a month portaging around the falls in 1805. Great Falls is part of the reason why Montana is called the Big Sky state. With wide, open vistas with mountains and buttes in the distance, the sky really does look bigger there. Info: genuinemontana.com and glaciermt.com/listing/ great-falls-convention-and-visitors-bureau
VISIT THE C.M. RUSSELL MUSEUM
Great Falls is home to the C.M. Russell Museum, which houses the most complete collection of Charles Russell art and personal objects in the world. Some of the most popular exhibits are his illustrated letters, which feature Russell’s original spelling, entertaining illustrations, humor and philosophy. The complex also includes the former home and log cabin studio of Montana’s famed cowboy artist. The museum is open Thursday to Monday in summer. Info: cmrussell.org.
DISCOVER MORE ABOUT LEWIS & CLARK
Head over to The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, at 4201 Giant Springs Road to recreate and experience the pair’s journey. Start your indoor voyage with an introductory video. Then, join a ranger for a program or explore the many hands-on exhibits in the center, operated by the USDA Forest Service since 1998. The self-guided hall’s centerpiece exhibit is the two-story diorama of the portage of the Missouri River’s five great falls. Test your strength pulling a boat against the Missouri’s current. Info: www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/hlcnf/ recarea/?recid=61458.
WALK AROUND GIANT SPRINGS
Giant Springs State Park is the perfect place for a picnic, where you can see what is said to be the shortest river in the world, feed some fish at a fish hatchery, walk around the scenic area and check out the visitors’ center. The state park is at 4600 Giant Springs Rd. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/giant-springs/.
TREK ALONG THE RIVER
Great Falls’ River’s Edge Trail, along the Missouri River is an award-winner, perfect for biking, walking, skating or jogging. It’s part of 48 miles of trails linking area parks, attractions, a waterfall and downtown. Explore the options at www.thetrail.org. DISTANCE
MISSOULA AREA
COOL OFF AT A WATER PARK
Kids are sure to love Splash Montana. It offers three-story waterslides, spray features, a lazy river and more. It’s at 600 Cregg Lane. Right next door is the Mobash Skate Park with 15,000 square feet of bowls, bank walls and rails. Currents Aquatic Center at McCormick Park, 600 Cregg Lane, offers water slides, spray features and a hot tub. Info: https://www.ci.missoula. mt.us/169/Splash-Montana
HIKE SENTINEL
You’re sure to see a great big “M” on a mountain the moment you land in Missoula — that would be Mount Sentinel. The hike to it is a popular activity for all ages. The trail is a 3/4-mile hike with an elevation gain of 620 feet, so it can be strenuous. Once you reach the “M” you can continue to climb for about another mile to the top of Mount Sentinel. The views are incredible, especially around sunset
FIND A HOT SPRING
Alameda’s Hot Springs Retreat at the foot of the Cabinet Mountains in Hot Springs doesn’t have a public outdoor pool on the property, but each suite includes private hot mineral baths. Info:
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
185 MILES • 2 HOUR 52 MINUTES
There’s something special about Missoula in the summertime. The town is known as the cultural hub of the state, with the historic Wilma Theater, many galleries, retailers and museums in the area. There are plenty of recreational opportunities, whether you’re more into birding, tubing down the Clark Fork River through the heart of town, rafting, hiking, mountain biking or whatever your heart desires. It has great breweries and coffee shops, and you’re sure to see musicians busking downtown on any given night. You could spend days and days taking it all in. Info: destinationmissoula.org.
www.alamedashotsprings.com
Lost trail Hot Springs Resort in the Bitterroot National Forest near Sula, features a hot springs pool with an average summer temperature of 95 degrees. Info: www. losttrailhotsprings.com.
Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort In Paradise along the Clark Fork River northwest of Missoula, has six hot pools for soaking and swimming, fine dining and guest cabins. Info: www. quinnshotsprings.com.
Lolo Hot Springs in Lolo has an indoor mineral pool for soaking and an outdoor swimming pool. Info: www.lolohotsprings.com
GET SPOOKED IN AMERICA’S COOLEST GHOST TOWN
That’s how Travel & Leisure Magazine has described Garnet Ghost Town, at 3255 Fort Missoula Road. A gold strike in the 1890s brought more than 1,000 people to the town, which sits at 6,000 feet. Today, 30 buildings stand in a state of arrested decay. Walk around them and tour the visitor center or hike a trail. Bureau of Land Management staff provide tours. Pack your own lunch and drinks, and bring cash for the admission fee. Info: garnetghosttown.org.
HAVRE AREA
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
271 MILES • 4 HOUR 50 MINUTES
Havre has it! Located in the rolling plains of north-central Montana, the small, roughly 9,000-person town of Havre got its start as a transportation hub for the first trains forging across the Great Plains. The town provided goods and supplies to area trappers, miners and military personnel stationed at Fort Assiniboine, six miles to the southwest. After a fire destroyed much of the town in 1904, businesses moved into an underground mall, operating below the streets until the town could be rebuilt. The underground city is still a popular destination. Prior to 1919, raising sheep, cattle and horses was popular, but farming of some of the world’s finest spring and winter wheat is an agricultural mainstay now. The town features a variety of activities, events and things to do, see and explore. Havre Area Chamber of Commerce, 130 Fifth Ave., 406-265-4383 or havrechamber.com.
LEARN ABOUT SOLDIERS AND DINOSAURS
One of the early fort postings of Gen. John J. “Black Jack” Pershing, Fort Assiniboine was also one of the grandest military posts in the West. It is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday, and noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday through Labor Day. Fort Assiniboine is located six miles southwest of Havre on Highway 57. Admission is $15 for adults, $14 for seniors and veterans, and $10 for children. Info: https://fortassinniboine.org/. The H. Earl Clack Museum, in the Holiday Village Shopping Center, presents the history of the HiLine and some impressive dinosaur fossils that put it on Montana’s Dinosaur Trail. It is open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission is free. Info: https://mtdinotrail.org/hearl-clack-memorial-museum/
TREAT YOURSELF
Henny Penny Cupcakes, at 215 Third Ave., has been offering gourmet cupcakes and alloccasion cakes to locals and visitors alike since 2012. The shop also features rotating soups, salads and sandwiches for a quick lunch.
EXPLORE THE BEAR PAW MOUNTAINS
Ten miles south of Havre on Highway 234, the Bear Paw Mountains are a great spot for exploration. Considered prairie island mountains, formed by active volcanic activity, the mountains cover about 40 miles east to west and 20 miles
north to south, and offer great hiking, camping and fishing. Start at Beaver Creek Park, the nation’s largest county park, and stroll along the Bear Paw Nature Trail. The trail follows an old road created by soldiers stationed at Fort Assiniboine. Day admission is $10. Info: bcpark. org.
TAKE AN UNDERGROUND TOUR
Explore historic Havre with its Beneath the Streets Tour, which takes visitors through such former establishments as the Sporting Eagle Saloon, a turn-of-the century honky-tonk where cowboys drank, danced and gambled. Also included are a former opium den, Chinese laundry, restaurant and bordello. Tours are available daily during the summer months; first tour begins at 9:30 a.m., last at 3:30 p.m. The ticket office is at 120 Third Ave. The cost is $17 for adults and $9 for children. Info: https:/ havrebeneaththestreets.com/.
TOUR THE FRANK DEROSA
RAILROAD MUSEUM
For the railroad buffs in the family, the Frank Derosa Railroad Museum, 20 3rd Ave. offers a brief history of the railroad, a relay office recreation, a hands-on reference library, original hand push carts, a working block signal and a complete model railroad. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday to Saturday. Info: www.visitmt.com/ listings/general/museum/frank-derosa-railroadmuseum or call 406-265-4383.
BIGFORK AREA
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
273 MILES • 4 HOUR
55 MINUTES
Bigfork is a nice small town that’s a mustsee if you’re in the Flathead Lake area. It was once a gathering place for the native tribes who camped near Flathead Lake to take advantage of the area’s abundant natural resources. The town became Bigfork when it was officially platted in 1901. In the early days, logging was a major industry. Bigfork is surrounded by mountains and forest and hugs the shore of Bigfork Bay on Flathead Lake. Even before it was a town, Bigfork boasted a power plant that gave its name to the town’s main street, Electric Avenue. The town is known for fine dining, fine art and great theater. The community was designated as “One of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in the West” and hosts an annual arts festival, this year on Aug. 3. The Bigfork Summer Playhouse has been recognized for more than 50 years as one of the Northwest’s finest repertory theaters. Golfing, hiking, fishing and horseback riding are among the outdoor pursuits. Info: bigfork.org.
• • Summer Daytripper 2024 • Big Sky Publishing
EXPERIENCE FLATHEAD LAKE
Flathead Lake is big — there’s no other way to say it. At nearly 30 miles long and 15 miles across, it is the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi in the Lower 48. Created by Ice Age glaciers and boasting 185 miles of shoreline, it is one of Montana’s most popular destinations. Fishing is popular, as the lake is home to cutthroat, brown, rainbow, brook, golden, bull and lake trout, kokanee salmon, mountain whitefish, northern pike, northern pike minnow, yellow perch, and large- and smallmouth bass. You can fish on your own or try a fishing charter — the opportunities are endless. Boating is another favorite Flathead Lake activity. As with fishing, you can embark on your own boating adventure, or take a tour with one of the fishing charter companies. You can also take a Flathead Lake boat tour. Boat tour options include: Far West Boat Tours, www.flatheadlakeboattour.com; Flathead Lake Sailing and Charters, https://www.visitmt. com/search?query=Flathead+Lake+Charters and Pointer Scenic Cruises, wildhorseislandboattrips.com.
SEE A PLAY
Bigfork Summer Playhouse is celebrating its 64th live season this year, beginning June 3. This year’s shows include: “Crazy for You,“ “Beauty and the Beast,” “Footloose” and “Legally Blonde.” Regular ticket prices are $35 for adults, $30 for seniors, $28 for U.S. military and $22 for children (under 10). Info: bigforksummerplayhouse.com
SIP ON A COCKTAIL AT WHISTLING ANDY’S
This distillery is dedicated to crafting awardwinning spirits as well as giving back to the community. Located at 8541 Highway 35, it is open daily and serving and selling its own bourbon whiskey, hibiscus coconut rum, pink peppercorn and pear gin and hopschnops, a spirit drawing from craft beer-making created in collaboration with Bonsai Brewing Project in Whitefish. Sample them straight or in a fine craft cocktail. Info: whistlingandy.com.
LISTEN TO SOME LOCAL ARTISTS
A concert series comes to the Riverbend Stage in Sliter Memorial Park next to the historic steel bridge every Sunday evening from June 25 to Aug. 27. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Cost is $5 for adults and kids under 13 are free. A season pass is $30. Info: riverbendconcertsbigfork.com, 406837-5888
HIKE WITH A LLAMA
Ever wanted to hang out with a llama for a weekend? Of course you have. Swan Mountain Llama Trekking based in nearby Swan Lake carries on the tradition started by Steve Rolfing of Great Northern Ranch. Have a llama carry a picnic lunch (and chairs to sit in), or try a painting or wine and cheese trek. Let the llamas do the heavy lifting as you follow along. Custom adventures are also available. Info: www. llamatreksmontana.com.
KALISPELL AREA
VISIT THE CONRAD MANSION
Get to know one of Kalispell’s founding fathers by visiting the Conrad Mansion. The Conrad Mansion sits on the edge of the original townsite, atop a bluff. Charles E. Conrad, who established a shipping and freighting empire with his brother in Fort Benton, sold the business and moved to the Flathead Valley. He built the 26-room mansion for his family in 1895 and is one of Kalispell’s founding fathers. The 3 acres around the mansion feature lovely gardens and a gazebo. Tours are offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day, through Oct. 15. Cost is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $10 for students 12-17. Info: www.conradmansion. com.
TOUR THE HOCKADAY MUSEUM OF ART
The Hockaday Museum of Art, at 302 Second Ave. E., is housed in a century-old Carnegie Library building that has undergone significant renovations to create a sophisticated museum setting. The permanent collection focuses on the art and artists of Montana and a permanent exhibition, The Crown of the Continent, captures the nostalgia and grandeur of Glacier National Park. This year, Artist Wilderness Connection: Celebrating Twenty Yearsruns through Oct. 26. The museum is open Thursday for seniors only and Friday and Saturday to the general public. Info: https://hockadaymuseum.com.
TAKE IN HISTORY AT THE MUSEUM AT CENTRAL SCHOOL
Central School, built in 1894, had been a high school, a junior high school, a grade school and housed classrooms for Flathead Valley Community College before its current life as a museum. Find exhibits on early Flathead Valley settlement Demersville, an honor roll of early residents and a timber gallery. Hours are Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for seniors. Kids are free. Info: www.yourmuseum.org.
HIKE AT HERRON PARK
Just southwest of Kalispell, find Herron Park, a 440-acre public park that contains miles of trails for mountain biking, horseback riding and hiking. To go farther, the Foys to Blacktail trail now extends 13.5 miles south to Blacktail Mountain Info: www.foystoblacktailtrails.org.
DISTANCE
FROM BOZEMAN
291 MILES • 5 HOUR 14 MINUTES
If you’re in need of some “bigger city amenities,” head 30 minutes west of Glacier National Park and spend some time checking out Kalispell, Montana’s seventh largest city. Situated 15 minutes north of Flathead Lake, the community is home to about 22,000 residents, including 2,000 artists and craftspeople whose work is displayed in galleries and numerous at festivals. The city also offers plenty of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, hiking, biking and huckleberry picking. Info: www.discoverkalispell.com.
GLACIER NATIONAL PARK
CRUISE DOWN GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD
Going-to-the-Sun is an iconic drive. Reaching an elevation of 6,646 feet at Logan Pass, Goingto-the Sun Road offers stunning vistas of some of the park’s glaciers, valleys and waterfalls. It’s a can’t-miss site in the area, but is only open for part of the year after the big spring plow. It takes at least 2 hours to drive the full 50 miles of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Important to know: you must purchase an entry reservation ticket to drive down the road or book a ticket with a shuttle service. There’s a free shuttle service if you don’t want to drive, or take a tour in a historic red bus. Info: https://www.nps.gov/glac/ planyourvisit/gtsrinfo.htm.
VISIT LAKE MCDONALD VALLEY
Lake McDonald Valley is the hub of activity on the west side of Glacier National Park. It has hiking trails, animals, Lake McDonald Lodge and, of course, Lake McDonald, the largest lake
in the park at 10 miles long and nearly 500 feet deep. It is a result of glacial carving. Two popular day hikes originate in Lake McDonald Valley — Avalanche Lake and Trail of the Cedars. The area also features ranger-led activities, scenic boat tours and horseback riding. Boat tours are also available at Many Glacier, Two Medicine and Rising Sun.
HIKE HIDDEN LAKE OVERLOOK
Hidden Lake Overlook, more commonly referred to as Hidden Lake Nature Trail, is one of the park’s most popular hikes. It begins from the west side of the Logan Pass Visitor Center and is 2.7 miles roundtrip. With a total elevation gain of 540 feet, the trail is considered easy. At 1.35 miles, you will reach the Hidden Lake Overlook, where you’ll find panoramic views. Mountain goats are common in this area and you may also see bighorn sheep. Info: www. hikinginglacier.com/hidden-lake.htm.
DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
297 MILES • 5 HOUR 10 MINUTES
With sweeping vistas, waterfalls, cool alpine lakes and plenty of wildlife, it’s hard to beat Glacier National Park. It features pristine forests, alpine meadows, spectacular lakes and rugged mountains. Located on the United StatesCanada border, Glacier welcomed 2.9 million visitors in 2018. Popular for both hiking and backpacking, the park offers 700 miles of trails, wildlife, activities and more. Glacier is a popular spot for both hiking and backpacking. For some, it serves as a place of great solitude. Info: www. nps.gov/glac.
WHITEFISH AREA
STROLL ALONG THE SHORES OF WHITEFISH LAKE
If you’re looking to stay close to the town’s center, Whitefish Lake offers sandy beaches and beautiful landscapes just blocks away from town. The lake is 7 miles long, 2.5 miles wide and 222 feet deep. It is located less than one mile from the Whitefish trail hiking and biking system and a short drive from Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort. Info: https://fwp.mt.gov/whitefish-lake.
TAKE IN A SHOW
Watch a performance put on by these Whitefish theater companies:
Alpine Theatre Project
Founded by three Broadway veterans, Alpine Theatre Project has brought Broadway talent, production and education to Flathead Valley
since 2004. Shows this season include “Gypsy in Concert” and “Cats” by ATP young actors. Info: www.atpwhitefish.org.
Whitefish Theatre Co.
Whitefish Theatre Co. is nationally recognized as a community theater that produces professional-level productions. Shows this summer include “Suite Surrender” and tributes to Fleetwood Mac and the Eagles. Info: www. whitefishtheatreco.org
HUCKLEBERRY HEAVEN
Can’t get enough Huckleberries? Huckleberry Days is probably the place for you. Huckleberry Days is a free art festival in celebration of the huckleberry. The festival is Aug. 9-11 in Depot Park and features more than 100 artists and food vendors. There’s also a huckleberry pancake feed on Saturday morning. Info: www. whitefishchamber.org/huckleberry-days
FROM BOZEMAN
An artsy ski town in the mountains and just a short drive away from Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a must-visit destination. It’s 17 miles north of Kalispell. It offers hiking, biking, boating cycling, great dining, shopping and more. Info: www.explorewhitefish.com.
