2020 SUMMER
DAYTRIPPER YOUR GUIDE TO SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN MONTANA
A S P E C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E B O Z E M A N D A I LY C H R O N I C L E
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FEELING MT? PLAN YOUR ROAD TRIP TO...
Visit Big Sky
Gateway to Yellowstone National Park, just under an hour’s scenic drive from the West Entrance #GetOutside with 50+ hikes, mountain biking, fly fishing, horseback riding, and more! Unparalleled accommodations and diverse dining options from affordable to luxurious
v i si t b i gsk y. c o m | 4 0 6 . 9 9 5 . 3 0 0 0 | i n f o @ v i s i t b i g s k ymt . com
WELCOME TO
MONTANA!
You're in Big Sky Country, the Treasure State, a place that offers endless unspoiled vistas and enough outdoor recreation, Old West history, and surprisingly sophisticated cultural offerings to satisfy the most diverse palates. Montana's claims to fame are many. Among them, we count ourselves lucky to have some of the finest rivers and streams for fly fishing in the world. We are enriched by our American Indian culture and, long, long ago, were home to many varieties of dinosaurs who left behind their fossil remains. We boast top flight golf courses, world class rock climbing and hiking opportunities, bronc busting rodeos throughout the summer, festivals and concerts galore, sapphire mining, ghost towns and a plethora of delightful dining opportunities to please the most discriminating taste buds. This publication is designed to give you an overview of all the opportunities that drew you to Montana. Delve deeply into this magazine to learn about all the wonders that await you in every part of the fourth largest state in the US. As our state song proclaims, "Of all the states from coast to coast, you're easily the best!"
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RIVERS & STREAMS
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hanks in no small part to Norman Maclean’s “A River Runs Through It” and the movie of the same name starring Brad Pitt, Montana has long been known as a fisher’s paradise. There are hundreds of miles of prized blue-ribbon trout waters throughout the state, drawing fly fishers from around the world. We’ve highlighted some rivers here. Start in local shops, where you can often find the best information. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has a guide to rules and regulations, and a whole lot more at fwp.mt.gov/fish. For more information on the sport, The International Federation of Fly Fishers Museum at 5237 Highway 89 S in Livingston, showcases the culture and history of the sport through a collection of objects, art, books and framed flies. It is open Monday-Friday yearround. Info: 406-222-9369, flyfishersinternational.org/ Resources/Museum-Library/Museum-Collection. The organization holds a Fly Fishing Expo in Bozeman from July 23 to 27. Or check out the Ennis Fly Fishing Festival, Aug. 29 to 31. GALLATIN RIVER The Gallatin River originates in Yellowstone National Park and flows past Big Sky through the Gallatin Canyon as it winds its way to the Gallatin Valley. Though the story is set near Missoula, many of the fishing scenes from “A River Runs Through It” were filmed here. While trout tend to be smaller on the Gallatin than some of the state’s other rivers, the scenery and location are spectacular. Here are some local shops and guides:
• The River’s Edge, 2012 N. Seventh Ave. & 59 North Star Lane, Bozeman, www.theriversedge.com • Bozeman Family Fly Shop, 2621 W. College St., Bozeman, bozemanfamilyflyshop.com • Montana Troutfitters, 1716 W. Main St., Bozeman, troutfitters.com • Montana Angler, Bozeman, www.montanaangler.com • Fins & Feathers, 81801 Gallatin Rd., Bozeman, finsandfeathersonline.com • Wild Trout Outfitters, 47520 Gallatin Rd., Big Sky, wildtroutoutfitters.com • Big Sky Anglers, 39 Madison Ave., West Yellowstone, bigskyanglers.com MADISON RIVER Fisher folk flock to the Madison River for its large populations of rainbow and brown trout, with good access for both waders and boaters. The Upper Madison, upstream from Ennis Lake, has large stretches of catch-and-release fishing. Below the lake, the Madison flows through scenic Bear Trap Canyon and onto the confluence of the Missouri River; spring and fall are the seasons to fish here. • Beartooth Fly Fishing, 2925 Highway 287 North, Cameron, www.beartoothflyfishing.com • Madison River Fishing Company, Ennis, www.mrfc.com • Hooked Outfitting, Ennis, www.hookedoutfitting.com • Trout Stalkers, 301 E. Main St., Ennis, montanatrout.com
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YELLOWSTONE RIVER The Yellowstone River runs out of Yellowstone National Park, north through Paradise Valley to Livingston and then follows I-90 to Billings and beyond. Some of its best fishing is in Paradise Valley and it’s hard to miss several fishing access signs as you drive Highway 89 or East River Road. Before you go, find advice at the local shops. The proprietors sell gear, whisper secret fishing hole names and set you up with guides. • Dan Bailey’s, 209 W. Park St., Livingston, www.dan-bailey.com • George Anderson’s Yellowstone Angler, 5256 U.S. Highway 89 South, Livingston, www.yellowstoneangler.com • Hatch Finders, 5237 U.S. Highway 89 South, www.hatchfinders.com • Sweetwater, 5082 U.S. Highway 89 South, Livingston, www.sweetwaterflyshop.com • Angler’s West, 206 Railroad Lane, Emigrant, www.montanaflyfishers.com BLACKFOOT RIVER According to Montana Angler (www.montanaangler. com), “The opal pools and emerald riffles of the Blackfoot River have run through the collective imagination since the release of Maclean’s novella that elevated a simple trout stream to a literary masterpiece.” The Blackfoot is a snow- and spring-fed river formed northeast of Lincoln and joins with the Clark Fork River about five miles from Missoula. Here are some local shops: • The Missoulian Angler Fly Shop, 802 S Higgins Ave., www.missoulianangler.com • Grizzly Hackle Fly Shop, 215 W. Front St ., grizzlyhackle.com • Kingfisher Fly Shop, 926 E. Broadway St., www.kingfisherflyshop.com • Blackfoot River Outfitters, 3055 N. Reserve St., blackfootriver.com BEAVERHEAD AND BIG HOLE RIVERS The Beaverhead River runs north for 80 miles from Clark Canyon Reservoir to the confluence with the Jefferson River near Twin Bridges. Much of the river winds through private land, but once you make it to the river, find trophy brown and native rainbow trout. North of the Beaverhead River is the Big Hole River, which runs 150-miles from the high mountains until it joins the Beaverhead to form the Jefferson River. Along with trout fishing, the Big
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Hole is home to 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, visit the R.L. Winston Rod Co., 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. Everyone’s welcome in the shop, which sells rods, lines and accessories, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The factory tour is at 11. Outside, there’s a casting lawn to test the products, should you wish to make a purchase. Info: winstonrods.com. Then, start in a local fly shop for river information and advice on guides for the area. Here’s a few: • Frontier Anglers, 680 N. Montana St., Dillon, www.frontieranglers.com • Great Divide Outfitters, 76793 MT Highway 43, Divide, www.bigholetrout.com • Sunrise Fly Shop, 472 Main St., Melrose, www.sunriseflyshop.com • Tight Line Adventures, 1120 Eliason Lane, Dillon, www.tightlinemontana.com • Tom Smith’s Backcountry Angler, 426 S. Atlantic St., Dillon, www.backcountryangler.com • Stonefly Outfitters, 409 N. Main St., Twin Bridges, www.stoneflyoutfitters.com MISSOURI RIVER While the Missouri River is known as the home to some monster fish along its more than 2,000 miles until it joins the Mississippi, trout fishermen flock to the 35-mile tailwater stretch below Holter Dam near the towns of Wolf Creek, Craig and Cascade. The river produces some of the largest fish in the state, from trout to carp. • CrossCurrents Fly Shop, 311 Bridge St., Craig, www.crosscurrents.com • Montana Fly Goods, 3180 Dredge Drive, Helena, www.montanaflygoods.com • The Trout Shop, 275 Bridge St., Craig, www.thetroutshop.com • Headhunters Fly Shop, 145 Bridge St., Craig, www.headhuntersflyshop.com • Trout Montana, 132 First St. N, Cascade, www.troutmontana.com • Prewett Creek Inn & Fly Shop, 2468 Old U.S. Highway 91, Craig, prewettcreekinn.com • Wolf Creek Angler, 515 Recreation Rd., Wolf Creek, wolfcreekangler.com
FIRST PEOPLES T hough the Gallatin Valley, where your day tripping adventure starts, has never been home to a Native American tribe, many used the area as hunting and fishing grounds or as a path toward the Yellowstone. Today, Montana has seven reservations and one state-recognized tribe. Each nation maintains tribal traditions in the modern world and their arts and celebrations are vibrant and colorful. Info: tribalnations.mt.gov
BLACKFEET TRIBE OF THE BLACKFEET RESERVATION Visit the Blackfeet Art Market from June 23 to 25 to view work by artists of the Blackfeet Nation. This event is open to all visitors. The art market is at the North American Indian Days Dance Arbor north of the Museum of the Plains Indians in Browning. Info: blackfeetcountry.com/blackfeet-art-market. Heart Butte Indian Days from Aug. 8 to 11 is located 26 miles south of Browning at the base of the Heart Butte in one of the oldest settlements on the reservation. Grand entries are Thursday at 1 p.m., Friday at 1 and 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 1 and 7 p.m. Info: blackfeetcountry.com/powwows. CHIPPEWA CREE TRIBE OF THE ROCKY BOY’S RESERVATION All are welcome to the 54th annual Rocky Boy Powwow from Aug. 2 to 4 at the Rocky Boy Indian Reservation, the smallest of the state’s reservations. The powwow 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. Info: www.chippewacree-nsn.gov.
CONFEDERATED SALISH & KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION The 121st Annual Arlee Powwow Esyapqeyni (Celebration) is July 3-7 at the Arlee Powwow Grounds in Arlee. It is the premier annual celebration of the Salish and Pend d’Oreille tribes, sponsored by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Nation with traditional dance competitions, singing and drumming and a big July 4 parade. CROW TRIBE OF THE CROW RESERVATION The Crow Reservation, known for their horsemanship and Indian relay events, hosts two powwows and rodeos each summer. The first, Crow Native Days from June 21 to 23. Info: www.crow-nsn.gov/crow-native-days.html.
That same weekend, visit the Battle of the Little Big Horn Reenactment in the location of Sitting Bull’s Camp from June 21 to 23. The reenactment of “Custer’s last stand,” where Lt. Col. George A. Custer and 262 soldiers were killed by several thousand warriors on June 25 and 26, 1876, takes place on the banks of the Little Bighorn River between Crow Agency and Garryowen each day at 1 p.m. Native American bareback riders portraying warriors of the Souix, Cheyenne and Crow tribes clash with Cavalry riders. Info: www.littlebighornreenactment.com.
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The annual Crow Fair is the largest powwow in Montana and one of the largest in the nation. The 101st annual Crow Fair Celebration Powwow & Rodeo will be at Crow Agency south of Hardin from Aug. 14 to 19. It includes parades through the campgrounds each morning at 10 a.m., a four-day powwow, a rodeo and horse races. Info: www.crow-nsn.gov/crow-fair.html. FORT BELKNAP TRIBES OF THE FORT BELKNAP RESERVATION Fort Belknap Indian Reservation is home to the Gros Ventre (Aanii) and the Assiniboine (Nakoda) tribes. It hosts a variety of powwows throught the summer and fall. The Wasay Wakpa Wachi Pow-wow is July 19-21 in Lodge Pole. Milk River Indian Days Pow-wow is July 26-28 at Fort Belknap Agency. The Hays Community Pow-wow is Aug. 9-11 in Hays and the Chief Joseph Memorial Pow-wow & Honor Ceremony is the first weekend in October. Info: www.fortbelknapcedc.org/events. FORT PECK TRIBES OF THE FORT PECK RESERVATION The Fort Peck Tribes host a variety of smaller celebrations leading up to the Poplar Indian Days. The Red Bottom Powwow is held in Frazer on the third weekend in June. The Badlands Powwow is held in Brockton on the fourth weekend of June. The Fort Kipp Powwow is in Fort Kipp on the first weekend of July. Wadopana Powwow is in Wolf Point on the first weekend of August and Poplar Indian Days is in Poplar on the first weekend in September. Info: www.fortpecktribes.org/fptdu/cultural_info.htm# NORTHERN CHEYENNE TRIBE OF THE NORTHERN CHEYENNE RESERVATION The annual Northern Cheyenne 4th of July Chiefs Powwow is July 5-7 at the Kenneth Beartusk Memorial Powwow Grounds in Lame Deer. Traditional feasts of native foods are always part of the festivities, as are gourd dances. Then, visit the Ashland Labor Day Powwow from Aug. 30 to Sept. 2 at the Ashland Dance Arbor on U.S. Highway 212 Ashland and the St. Labre Mission. Info: www.cheyennenation.com.
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DINOSAURS M
ontana has a rich paleontological history. Did you know the world’s first identified T. rex was found by paleontologist Barnum Brown in the Hell Creek area near Jordan, in 1902? And the first identifiable dinosaur remains were also found in the state nearly 50 years earlier. Now, a network of museums across the state has made it easy for daytrippers to learn more about the dinosaurs that once walked, swam and flew here. The 14-stop Montana Dinosaur Trail has stops from Ekalaka in extreme eastern Montana to Bynum and Choteau in the northwest. It celebrates the state’s dinosaur connections. Visitors can experience tours of ancient archaeological sites along the trail. Some of the Dinosaur Trail facilities also offer public paleontology field dig opportunities: Two Medicine Dinosaur Center, Great Plains Dinosaur Museum, Garfield County Museum and the Carter County Museum. Info: mtdinotrail.org.
Start with the famed MUSEUM OF THE ROCKIES at 600 W. Kagy Blvd in Bozeman, home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils, some 35,000, including the world’s 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 over millions of years ago. The museum is open year-round. Summer hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Sept. 2. Info: www.museumoftherockies.org, 406-994-2251.
OTHER STOPS ON THE DINO TRAIL: BLAINE COUNTY MUSEUM 501 Indiana St., Chinook blainecountymuseum.com The museum’s paleontology exhibit focuses on Judith River Formation fossils including feature Hadrosaur, Gorgosaurus and Edmontonia, and gigantic marine reptiles Mosasaur and Plesiosaur. There’s also an exhibit where you can handle the fossils. CARTER COUNTY MUSEUM 306 N. Main St., Ekalaka cartercountymuseum.org Visit during the seventh annual Dino Shindig on July 26 and 27, which features talks by leading paleontologists, kids activities, music and dancing, and a field expedition. The museum’s Lambert Room has a skeleton of the duckbill dinosaur Anatotitan copei (one of a few nearly complete specimens of its kind) and a complete triceratops skull. DEPOT MUSEUM 25 Fourth Ave. NW, Rudyard Rudyardmuseum.wordpress.com This tiny museum has a display of Maiasaura, Troodon, Tarasaurus and Gryposaurus in collaboration with Museum of the Rockies.
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FORT PECK INTERPRETIVE CENTER Lower Yellowstone Road, Fort Peck https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Charles_M_Russell/visit/ visitor_activities/FPIC.html A cooperative effort between the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Fort Peck Interpretive Center lobby houses “Peck’s Rex,” one of the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever found. The exhibit hall displays a fullsize skeleton cast. FRONTIER GATEWAY MUSEUM 201 State St., Glendive www.frontiergatewaymuseum.org Frontier Gateway Museum is the Dawson County museum, located in the heart of the Hell Creek Formation. The museum displays a full-size skeleton cast of “Margie,” the Struthiomimus found near Glendive in the early 1990s. You’ll also find fossils from Stegoceras, Triceratops, Thescelosaurus and hadrosaurs. GARFIELD COUNTY MUSEUM 952 Jordan Ave., Jordan garfieldcounty.com/our-museum.html Paleontologists have made some of the first and most important fossil finds in modern history in the Cretaceous sediments of the badlands along the Missouri River. Home to the Hell Creek Formation, Garfield County has made major contributions to the record, including the first identified T. rex. The museum houses skulls of a T. Rex and Stygimoloch and a full-size Triceratops cast.
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MAKOSHIKA STATE PARK 1301 Snyder Ave., Glendive stateparks.mt.gov/makoshika Southeast of Glendive, a newly remodeled visitor center at the park entrance houses a Triceratops skull and other badland interpretive displays. Over 10 different dinosaur species have been discovered in Makoshika. Significant discoveries include a complete Triceratops horridus skull, the fossil remains of Edmontosaurus and Tyrannosaurus rex, and a nearly complete skeleton of the rare Thescelosaur. OLD TRAIL MUSEUM 823 N. Main Ave., Choteau oldtrailmuseum.org The Dinosaurs of the Two Medicine Paleontology Gallery in the main building 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 Sauronitholestes skeleton cast. PHILLIPS COUNTY MUSEUM 431 U.S. Highway 2 East, Malta phillipscountymuseum.org Meet “Elvis” the 33-foot-long, 95 percent complete Brachylophosaurus fossil which is one of the best articulated skeletons ever found. There’s also a 700-pound femur of an Apatosaurus and a Tylosaur jaw bone.
GREAT PLAINS DINOSAUR MUSEUM 405 N. First St. E., Malta greatplainsdinosaurs.org Among the dinosaur fossils are Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Camarasaurus, a horned dinosaur called Maltaceratops, a new and as yet un-named species of raptor dinosaur and several remarkably preserved hadrosaurs (duck-billed dinosaurs).
TWO MEDICINE DINOSAUR CENTER 120 Second Ave. S., Bynum www.tmdinosaurcenter.org Highlights include a 137-foot-long life-size model of Seismosaurus and the very first baby dinosaurs found in North America. On-site experiences range from a half-day site tour to a two-week long Paleo Training Course.
H. EARL CLACK MUSEUM 753 U.S. Highway 2 NW, Havre hearlclackmuseum.org The museum displays 75- million-year-old dinosaur eggs and embryos found in local exposures of the Judith River Formation. Also view a skull cast of the rare Stygimoloch (a species of pachycephalosaur) and an Albertosaurus head mask.
UPPER MUSSELSHELL MUSEUM 11 & 36 S. Central Ave., Harlowton Harlowtonmuseum.org Home of Avaceratops Lammersi, also known as ‘Ava,’ a fossil discovered north of Shawmut and the first of its kind. The museum also houses other fossils from dinosaurs’ legs and hips.
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KIDS’ FAVORITE STORE ORE SINCE 1989
EarthsTreasuresMT.com • 406-586-3451 25 N Willson • Downtown Bozeman
1828269
Fossils • Butterfly Wing Jewelry • Wall of Bugs • Crystals
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AC TIVITIES BY A REA | SU M M E R DAY T R I P PE R 2019 BOZEMAN BELGRADE MANHATTAN LIVINGSTON THREE FORKS BIG SKY ENNIS BIG TIMBER VIRGINIA CITY GARDINER YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS BUTTE TWIN BRIDGES WEST YELLOWSTONE
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BOZEMAN AREA Bozeman comes alive each summer with never-ending fun and activities for the whole family. Hike or bike local trails, try rock climbing indoors or out, attend a festival or fair, peruse shops and art galleries along Bozeman’s historic Main Street, check out new exhibits at a museum, dine at one of the city’s many great restaurants, or try a locally crafted beverage with
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friends and family. For a weekly schedule of local events, pick up a copy of the Ruckus arts and culture magazine included in the Chronicle each Friday. For information on visiting the city, find the Bozeman Convention and Visitors Bureau online at www. bozemancvb.com, or the Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce at www.bozemanchamber.com.
ACTIVITIES »
TAKE A HIKE Bozeman is a hiker’s paradise. Trails traverse the valley and lead to the mountains, in a partnership between the City of Bozeman and the Gallatin Valley Land Trust called Main Street to the Mountains. Find an interactive map at gvlt.org/trails/trail-map/. The M Trail is a local favorite. Created in 1915 by Montana State University students, the trailhead that leads to the iconic white “M” starts out about 850 feet below the landmark. There are two routes, and the whole trail can be completed in about an hour, roundtrip. It’s popular with families – dogs included – and it’s flush with wild flowers in spring. For a challenge, the hike can be extended past the “M” toward the summit of Baldy Mountain. Nearby, the newer Drinking Horse Mountain Trail is becoming increasingly popular with locals. On the other side of the valley, hikers head to Hyalite Canyon, with trails to lakes, streams, waterfalls and mountain peaks. Find more information at www.greater-yellowstone.com/Bozeman-MT/ Hyalite-Canyon.html.
CHECK OUT HIKEWILDMONTANA.ORG For more than 50 years, the Montana Wilderness Association has been the pinnacle of Montana hiking information. It’s website, www. hikewildmontana.org, is an interactive guide to more than 225 hikes statewide, many in Southwest Montana. Each listing comes with a picture, hike description and trail specifics, including elevation gain, trailhead directions and accessibility for kids and dogs, plus area businesses to grab a bite before your hike or continue your exploration of the area after. If you’d rather hike with a group, the Montana Wilderness Association offers free Wilderness Walks led by an experienced hiker throughout the summer. The website contains registration and more information on each offering as well as a blog with hiking tips.
TRY A GVLT DISCOVERY WALK Gallatin Valley Land Trust offers dozens of hour-long Discovery Walks in May and June. These are easy walks on the local Main Street to the Mountains trail system that incorporate an element of learning. Most walks are family friendly, though some are specifically for the little ones in cooperation with Montana Outdoor Science School. The kids can learn about amphibians, bugs, the water system and survival skills. For adults, programs incorporate astronomy, wildflowers and weeds, history, geology, birding and even walking with an acupuncturist to learn techniques for stress reduction. For more info on guided hikes, meeting points and the rest of the June’s schedule, visit: www.gvlt.org/events/discovery-walks.
GO RUNNING
Runners of all abilities are invited to join the Big Sky Wind Drinkers running club on its free summer Fun Runs, starting at 6:30 p.m. each Wednesday night. Get-togethers are supportive and noncompetitive. Location varies each week; each run has three route options, covering 1, 3 or 5 miles. Strollers are welcome. Sorry, no dogs except for specific dog runs. For more information on each run, visit winddrinkers.org/fun_runs/.
RUN A RACE
If you’re looking to work on your time, the summer season is full of timed races. Big Sky Wind Drinkers’ races include the Frank Newman Spring Marathon on Saturday, May 25; the Old Gabe 50K and 30K on Saturday, June 15; the Sweet Pea Run 5K and 10K, the Ed Anacker Bridger Ridge Run on Saturday, Aug. 10; and the John Colter Run on Saturday, Sept. 14., which emulates the mountain man’s escape from the Blackfoot tribe. Colter may have been naked, but clothing is a must for participants. The Wind Drinkers also offer a Gallatin Valley Grand Prix, with runners accumulating points for participating in charitable fun runs such as the Manhattan Dutch Dash for Education on June 2, the July 4 Race for Independence and the Sept. 22 Opera Run. For the group’s full list of area races, visit winddrinkers.org/trailhead/races/nearby-races/.
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Visitors Bureau offers free downloadable maps for self-guided tours, at bozemancvb.com/activities/activity/tours, that guide you along Bozeman’s Main Street; down South Tracy Avenue, Willson and Grand avenues; or through Sunset Hills historic cemetery. If you prefer a guided tour, Extreme History Project offerings include the history of saloons and drinking, buildings designed by local architect Fred Willson, the history of Bozeman Creek, which runs through the heart of downtown, and the popular Murders, Madams, and Mediums which explores Bozeman’s dark side. For a full listing and registration information, visit adventurethroughtime.org.
GO CRAZY FOR CRAZY DAYS
Better than Black Friday, the biggest sidewalk sale of them all is Summer Crazy Days, when downtown businesses cut prices on select merchandise and sell it in front of the stores. It’s a good excuse to wander downtown and you’re sure to find five to 20 things you must have! Mark your calendars: The sale is Friday, July 19, and Saturday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., although hours may vary at participating businesses.
CELEBRATE THE SWEET PEA FESTIVAL
RIDE A BIKE
Around Bozeman, the Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club supports numerous cycling-related community events throughout the year, including rides, races and tours for adults, children and family riders. A traditional road Summer Series runs from from May 14 to Aug. 14. Bozeman Bike Week in June encourages commuting by bike and offers advice, encouragement and snacks for riders. 2019 dates have yet to be announced. For more information, visit gallatinvalleybicycleclub. org. Bozeman is also home to a volunteer group that rehabs donated bicycles for others and helps riders learn to fix their two-wheeled machines. Bozeman Bike Kitchen is open Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon during the summer at the corner of Industrial and Griffin drives. Learn about Bozeman Bike Kitchen by visiting bozemanbikekitchen.org.
LEARN HISTORY ON A WALKING TOUR
Explore Bozeman’s history on foot with a walking tour. More than 40 local properties are listed on the National Historic Register and Bozeman has nine historic districts. The Bozeman Convention and
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This great celebration of the arts is a longstanding Bozeman tradition. For over 40 years, the Sweet Pea Festival has been providing the public with amazing live entertainment in the form of plays and dancing. The 42nd annual festival is Aug. 2-4 in Lindley Park. Enjoy three days of arts and crafts booths, food vendors, music, theater, dance, family performances, workshops, a flower show and children’s activities. Music this year includes Leftover Salmon, Sister Sparrow & the Dirty Birds, Blitzen Trapper, Big Sam’s Funky Nation and Scott Pemberton Band. Events leading up to the festival include Chalk on the Walk on Tuesday, the Bite of Bozeman on Wednesday, a Sweet Pea-sponsored Music on Main on Thursday. For more information, visit sweatpeafestival.org. A full schedule will be released around July 1.
VIEW LOCAL ARTS AT SLAM
Nearby, the ninth annual Summer SLAM Festival will return to Bogert Park on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 3 and 4. Based on the idea of supporting local artists and musicians, SLAM features artists and musicians from around the state as well as local food options and a selection of Montana-made spirits and brews for patrons 21+. In September and October, SLAM will host a Sip & Slam brewery tour featuring local artists. For more information, visit slamfestivals.org.
EXPERIENCE IMMERSIVE ART
Mountain Time Arts creates large-scale public arts projects to engage viewers with the landscape and culture of the Rocky Mountain West. Past projects explored the nature of water in a three-year Waterworks series. An as-yet-untitled event on Aug. 28 and 29 will feature a new work projected on the 90’ tall Story Mill Buildings in northeast Bozeman at dusk. It is free to all. Info: mountaintimearts.org.
COOL OFF IN A POOL Bozeman’s only outdoor pool, Bogert Pool at 325 S. Church St., offers two swimming areas – a 25-yard pool ranging from 3.5- to 9-feet deep, and a shallow pool of 1 to 3 feet that’s ideal for young children. Lessons, recreational and lap swimming are available. Opening day is in midJune and the pool closes at the end of August. Call 406-582-0806 or visit bozeman.net/ government/pools/bogert-pool-outdoor for more information. Year-round, swim at the indoor Bozeman Swim Center, 1211 W. Main St., which features classes, lessons, lap and recreational swims. Call 406-582-2294 or visit www.bozeman. net/government/pools/swim-center-indoor for more information. Daily admission to city pools is $4 for residents ages 15 to 59, $3 for ages 60 and older and ages 3-14. Children 2 and under swim free. Friday Family Swim is $10 a family. Monthly passes are available and fees increase for non-residents.
PLANET BRONZE ART GALLERY 905 North 5th Avenue | Bozeman, MT 59715 | 406.585.0050 | www.planetbronze.com
Jim Lovell
CM Pilot Apollo 8 & Commander Apollo 13
William Anders
Lunar Module Pilot Apollo 8
Frank Borman
Commander Apollo 8
Apollo 8 First Manned Mission to Orbit the Moon 12.21.1968
Dennis Harrington has spent over 3 Years Sculpting, the Life-Sized Apollo 8 Astronaut Project. It is Now Completed and on Display at the Gallery! Gallery Hours 11 - 5PM Monday-Saturday Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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JUMP IN A LAKE
Pools are definitely not the only option for cooling off in the summer months. Glen Lake Rotary Park, formerly the East Gallatin Recreation Area, is formed around what locals refer to as the Bozeman Beach. The large pond off Manley Road does have a wide sand beach as well as picnic areas, volleyball courts, a climbing rock and a dock for fishing or diving. Lakes farther from Bozeman include Fairy Lake, some 22.5 miles north of Bozeman on MT 86 and then 5 miles west on Fairy Lake Road and Hyalite Reservoir, a 206-acre reservoir 12 miles south of Bozeman. For more information, visit www.fs.usda.gov/main/ custergallatin/home.
RAFT A RIVER
If you’re fortunate enough to spend the summer guiding rafts with a rafting company, you’re one of the lucky ones. If not, you can always take a guided tour for a day or more. Montana Whitewater Raft Co. & Ziplining, 406-763-4465, montanawhitewater.com. Geyser Whitewater Expeditions, 406-995-4989www.raftmontana.com Madison River Tubing, 406-209-8384, madisonrivertubing.com.
SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
A favorite local pastime includes putting yourself in a whole bunch of hot water. Take a day to relax and enjoy one of these nearby hot springs: Bozeman Hot Springs Near Four Corners, just west of Bozeman, 81123 Gallatin Rd. Info: 406-586-6492, www.bozemanhotsprings.com. Norris Hot Springs If you’d like music with your soak, head west to Norris, which features live music on weekends. Info: 406-685-3303, www.norrishotsprings.com. Chico Hot Springs Paradise Valley’s Chico Hot Springs has live music in the adjoining bar on weekends as well as a range of overnight accommodations, dining and a spa. Info: 406-333-4933, www.chicohotsprings.com. Yellowstone Hot Springs The areas newest hot springs is on the banks of the Yellowstone close to the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Info: 833-977-7464, yellowstonehotspringsmt.com
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LEARN AT THE RAPTOR CENTER
While the Montana Raptor Conservation Center at 161 Bent Wing Rd. off Springhill Road is not open to the public, the organization presents a Summer Education Series each year to teach the community about its work. Free hour-long biology-based programs at the raptor center’s educational amphitheater feature three to four bird ambassadors. Donations are encouraged to help “Feed the Birds” and contributions are tax deductible. Programs are Wednesday evenings at 6 p.m. and Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. from June 19 to Aug. 10. For more information, visit montanaraptor. org/education/programs-at-the-center/.
GO BIRD WATCHING
See how many unique bird species you can count. The Montana Audubon Society’s website at mtaudubon.org maps birding “hot spots” into five regions. The Bozeman region includes the Glen Lake Rotary Park, formerly East Gallatin Recreation Area, and the Sourdough Nature Trail, where you may glimpse a mountain chickadee, a red-breasted nuthatch or a western meadowlark. The website also includes the state bird list, as well as birding trip guides and information about birding groups. The local organization, Sacajawea Audubon Society, offers year-round birding trips and programs. For a full list and more information, visit sacajaweaaudubon.org. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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PLAY TENNIS
Practice your 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 www.bozemantennis.usta.com.
GO HORSEBACK RIDING
See the area as some of its earliest settlers, from the back of a horse. 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, www.cedarridgeequines.com
SLEEP UNDER THE STARS
Montana is home to more than 400 campgrounds, both public and private, with a variety of amenities. Here are a few in the Bozeman area: Battle Ridge Campground 22 miles northeast of Bozeman along Highway 86 Info: 406-522-2520 Bear Canyon Campground 4000 Bozeman Trail Rd. Info: 406-587-1575 Bozeman Campground and RV Park 81123 Gallatin Road Info: 406-587-3030, bozemancampground.com Chisholm Campground 18 miles south of Bozeman on Hyalite Canyon Road Info: 877-646-1012 Fairy Lake Campground 22 miles north of Bozeman on Highway 86, then 5 miles west on Fairy Lake Road Info: 406-522-2520 Sunrise Campground 31842 Frontage Road, Bozeman Info: 406-587-4797 For a list of campgrounds around the state, visit www.montanacampgrounds.net or montanastateparks.reserveamerica.com. Some require reservations.
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Kokopelli’s Travels 15150 Horse Creek Rd. 406-686-4475 Medicine Lake Outfitters 346 Linney Spur Rd. 406-388-4938, packtrips.com
GET A BIRD’S EYE VIEW
There are a variety of ways to see Gallatin Valley from above. Founded in 2002, Bozeman Paragliding provides instruction, sales and service for students and one-time tandem clients. An intro tandem flight with an instructor is $50 to $150, or try intro paragliding lessons for one or two days ($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. Another way to take in the view is by hot air balloon. Endeavor Ballooning offers trips in Bozeman ($250) and Big Sky ($295) at sunrise each day. Find them online at www.montanaballoon.com or call 406-600-8999. If you prefer riding inside something when you take to the air, 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. A couple options are: Central Copters 406-586-9185, www.centralcopters.com Rocky Mountain Rotors 406-579-9312, www.rockymountainrotors.net
MEET BRUTUS THE BEAR
ENGAGE. INSPIRE. DISCOVER.
Brutus, a world-famous male grizzly bear and star of National Geographic’s “Expedition Wild,” lives just outside of Bozeman at Montana Grizzly Encounter. The grizzly bear rescue and education sanctuary is also home to bears Bella, Sheena, Jake, Christi, Lucy and Maggi. Visitors can meet them from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily in summer at 80 Bozeman Hill Rd., off Interstate 90 east of Bozeman. The cost is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors 65 and older and $6 for children 4-12. Season passes are available. Info: www. grizzlyencounter.org, 406-586-8893.
Visit Us Year-Round!
A must-see for family & friends. Siebel Dinosaur Complex • Taylor Planetarium Regional History Exhibits • Changing Exhibits from Around the World Lectures / Programs / Events • Distinctive Gift Shop
museumoftherockies.org 406.994.2251 | 600 W. Kagy Blvd., Bozeman, MT
Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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TAKE TO THE WATER ON A PADDLE BOARD
Stand-up paddle boarding has increased in popularity and people can be seen on the surfboard-like crafts in local lakes and even on some rivers. Rentals are available at Boys Toys, bigboystoysrentals. com; Round House Sports, www.roundhouse-sports.com; Northern Lights Rivers Lakes & Oceans, http://www.northernlightstrading.com; and the Montana State University Outdoor Recreation Rental Center (for students, staff and alumni), http://www.montana.edu/outdoorrecreation/Rentals.html. Just make sure to bring a life jacket!
CLIMB A BOULDER OR SCALE A WALL
TEE OFF
Public golf courses in Bozeman offer sweeping views of the rolling hills, Cottonwood Hills Golf Course at 8955 River Rd. from near Four Corners, and Bridger Creek Golf Course, 2710 McIlhattan Rd., from 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.
SERVE UP A GAME OF VOLLEYBALL
The Big Sky Volleyball Club offers summer action outdoors and indoor play in winter. Visit their website, www.bigskyvolleyball.com 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 A PARKS & REC ACTIVITY
Whether you love skateboarding, swimming, dancing or basketball, 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. This summer, the Rec Department also leads free pop-up wellness programs in city parks, offering classes like Pure Barre and yoga. Info: www. bozeman.net/government/recreation, 406-582-2290.
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Of course, Bozeman wouldn’t have just any normal playground equipment. 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. The center features 18,000 square feet of space, walls 12 to 50 feet high, bouldering terrain, a yoga studio and a fitness center. 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.
COMBINE FRISBEE AND GOLF
Disc golf, also known as frolf or folf, is basically golf played with a Frisbee. Discs are available at local sporting goods stores. 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 CORN HOLE) TEAM
Overtime Sports in partnership with other local businesses, offers laid-back summer adult league kickball action, beginning June 25 at Beall Park. Check out www.overtimesportsbozeman.com for details on playing kickball or other offerings like flag football, dodgeball, floor hockey, skeeball and cornhole too.
TAKE IN A ROLLER DERBY BOUT
The Gallatin Roller Derby, Southwest Montana’s flat-track women’s roller derby league, will play several home bouts at Haynes Pavilion at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds this summer. Bouts are scheduled for May 18, June 18-19, Aug. 10 and Sept. 7. Info: grderby.com.
FIND YOUR ROOTS AT THE FAIR
Do you like corn dogs and cotton candy? How about beer and carnival games? Do fun houses and rides get you going? What about farm animals, ranch rodeos, vendors and live entertainment? Then the Big Sky Country State Fair at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds is the place for you. This year, the Fair takes place July 17-21 with shows such as JoDee Messina, The Cadillac Three and Resurrection (a Journey tribute). Each concert is included in gate admission, but an additional $29 pit pass gives patrons a special viewing area, private bartender and private restrooms. The fair is also home to the 2019 Rocky Mountain Wife Carrying Championship, which is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. Info: 406statefair.com.
HEAR LIVE MUSIC OUTSIDE
There are plenty of free summer concert opportunities in Bozeman. Music on Main brings crowds to downtown Bozeman every Thursday from June 27 to Aug. 15. Downtown blocks are closed off for kids activities, food vendors and music from bands such as Paige And The People’s Band, Lauren Morrow and The Outer Vibe. Kids activities from 6:30-8 p.m. Live music from 7-8:30 p.m. Info and full schedule: www.downtownbozeman.org. Another option is the Emerson Center’s Lunch on the Lawn, which takes place Wednesdays in July and August from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the west lawn, 111 S. Grand Ave. The weekly event includes live music, food vendors and activities for the kids. Check www.theemerson.org/lunch-on-thelawn for performers and exact dates.
VISIT A MUSEUM
Four Bozeman museums offer exhibits of interest to the whole family: American Computer & Robotics museum 2023 Stadium Dr. 406-582-1288, www.compustory.com The museum traces the history of human technology over the last 4,000 years including computing, space travel and code-breaking. Montana Science Center 202 S. Willson Ave 406-522-9087, montanasciencecenter.org Formerly the Children’s Museum of Bozeman, Montana Science Center rebranded this year to better facilitate their mission as an educational family facility with hands-on exhibits, science camps, after-school activities and educational programs for all ages. Gallatin History Museum 317 W. Main St. 406-522-8122, gallatinhistorymuseum.org The Gallatin History Museum immerses visitors in area history. Housed in a 1911 building that was was once the county jail, view old cells and gallows along with an extensive historical collection and photo archive. Museum of the Rockies 600 W. Kagy Blvd. 406-994-2251, www.museumoftherockies.org Museum of the Rockies 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. This summer, the museum will also feature an exhibit on the Real Genghis Khan transporting visitors to 13th-century Mongolia. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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CHECK OUT LOCAL GOODS AT A FARMERS MARKET
For the freshest local produce and crafts, hit up a local farmers market. Bozeman is home to two weekly markets in the summer: Bogert Farmers Market June 4-Sept. 24 Tuesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. Bogert Park The market features a variety of vendors, food, entertainment, kids activities and more. Info: bogertfarmersmarket.org Gallatin Valley Farmers Market June 22-Mid-Sept. (No market during the fair, July 20) Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon Haynes Pavilion at Gallatin County Fairgrounds The market includes food, local produce, entertainment and multiple vendors. Info: www.gallatinvalleyfarmersmarket.com
SEE A CAR SHOW
Peruse more than a hundred vintage automobiles lining Main Street from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18 during the annual Cruisin’ on Main Car Show. Awards are given out in more than 14 categories, including a People’s Choice Award and Best of Show. Info: downtownbozeman.org/event/cruisin-on-main-annual-car-show-2019
TRY AN OLD-FASHIONED SODA
The Chocolate Moose Candy & Soda Shoppe 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. And that list doesn’t even include the candy! The Chocolate Moose is at 140 E. Main St. Info: thechocolatemoosemt.com.
TAKE TO THE STAGE
Bozeman’s Kaleidoscope Youth Theater, The Open Door Theatre, Verge Theater and Ellen Theatre offers classes and camps for kids, plus chances to audition for shows for people of all ages. If acting isn’t your forte, you can still take in a show featuring a cast of talented locals. Visit each theater company’s website for performance dates, audition notices, classes and more Info: www.kytbozeman. org, vergetheater.com, theellentheatre.com, opendoorbozeman.org.
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JOIN IN AN ART WALK
Stroll through art galleries and businesses on Main Street and at the Emerson Cultural Center and enjoy free hors d’oeuvres and beverages. Rain or shine, Bozeman Art Walks take place on the second Friday of every month, June 14, July 12, August 9, September 13. The walks are officially held from 6 to 8 p.m., though the Emerson and many galleries begin at 5 p.m. Info: downtownbozeman.org/event/ art-walks-2019
CREATE YOUR OWN ART WALK
Even if you miss out on the art walk fun, visiting local galleries and art markets make for a nice afternoon of entertainment. Many galleries lie outside of the downtown area where the art walks are centered. The Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture at 111 S. Grand Ave. is a good place to start. It is an old school building home to dozens of artists and studios such as Ecce Fine Art and the Artists Gallery. Visit www.theemerson.org for more information on galleries, exhibits and events.
SOME OTHER BOZEMAN GALLERIES:
Tart 1530 W. Main St. 406-582-0416, www.tartique.com Thomas Nygard Gallery 133 E. Main St. 406-586-3636, www.nygardgallery.com Visions West Gallery 34 W. Main St. 406-522-9946, www.visionswestcontemporary.com White Creek Art 410 N. Broadway Ave 406-580-0762, whitecreekart.com Yellowstone Wild Gallery 424 E. Main St., Suite 102A 406-586-8649, www.yellowstonewild.com
A. Banks Gallery 127 E. Main St. 406-586-1000, www.abanksgallery.com Altitude Gallery 134 E. Main S 406-582-4472, altitudegallerybozeman.com Cello Boutique and Gallery 2 W. Main St. 406-522-9999, cellogallery.com Helen E. Copeland Gallery 213 Haynes Hall, MSU 406-994-4501, hecgallery.com Misco Mill Gallery 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/ Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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TRY A LOCAL BREW
The Bozeman area has 10. 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 101 E. Oak St. www.406brewing.com Bozeman Brewing Company 504 N. Broadway Ave. bozemanbrewing.com Bridger Brewing Company 1609 S. 11th Ave. www.bridgerbrewing.com Bunkhouse Brewery 1216 W. Lincoln St. thebunkhousebrewery.com Map Brewing Co. 510 Manley Rd. mapbrewing.com Mountains Walking Brewing 422 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 Lone Peak Brewery & Taphouse 48 Market Place, Big Sky www.lonepeakbrewery.com
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CHASE IT WITH SOMETHING HARDER
Local distilleries 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 a person a day. Bozeman Spirits Distillery 121 W. Main St. Flavored vodka, gin, spiced rum and whiskey and assorted cocktails Info: www.bozemanspirits.com, 406-577-2155. Dry Hills Distillery 106 Village Center Lane Vodka, gin and whiskey Info: www.dryhillsdistillery.com, 406-624-6713 Wildrye Distilling 101 E. Oak St Vodka, gin, dark rum and whiskey Info: www.wildryedistilling.com, 406-790-1216
OTHER MONTANA DISTILLERIES INCLUDE: Glacier Distilling, Coram/West Glacier, glacierdistilling.com Headframe Spirits, Butte, www.headframespirits.com Montgomery Distillery, Missoula, montgomerydistillery.com Spirit of Montana Distliing, Billings, spiritofmontana.com Steel Toe Distillery, Potomac (30 minutes from Missoula), www.steeltoedistillery.com Trailhead Spirits, Billings, www.trailheadspirits.com Triple Divide Spirits, Helena, www.tripledividespirits.com Whistling Andy, Bigfork, www.whistlingandy.com Willie’s Distillery, Ennis, www.williesdistillery.com
TASTE A BEVERAGE OF A DIFFERENT SORT
Aside from more traditional breweries and distilleries, Bozeman is home to 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. Info: www.lockhornhardcider.com or 406-580-9098. Valhalla Meadery opened in October at 875 Bridger Drive brews mead with local honey, crafting traditional sweet or dry mead as well as infusing unique flavors like beet or ginger. Info: valhallabozeman.com, 406-577-2383. Dean’s Zesty Booch, at 111 E. Oak St. next to Wildrye Distilling and 406 Brewing offers a variety of gut-healthy kombucha brewed in house. There’s also a menu of kombucha cocktails in collaboration with the neighbors. Info: deanszestybooch.com, 406-577-2444.
JUMP FOR JOY
One of Bozeman’s newest attractions, JumpTime Bozeman opened this spring with trampoline grids, slam dunk basketball courts, dodgeball games, an obstacle course and much more. Info: jumptimebozeman.com, 406-586-3473
CHEER FROM THE STANDS
Never one to miss a seventh-inning stretch? In 2019, Heroes Park in the Gallatin Valley Fairgrounds complex will host over 60 regular-season legion baseball games, three invitational tournaments and the Southern “A” post-season District Tournament. Info: bozemanlegionbaseball.com
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS!
12 N. WILLSON - NEXT TO THE CANNERY | 586-7825 EROTIQUESTYLE.COM Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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BELGRADE AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
11 MILES • 17 MINUTES Established in 1882, Belgrade 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. This charming little mountain town in the Gallatin Valley 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 Ln., www.chaletmarket.com. If you’re thirsty and of age, stop by the Madison River Brewing Co. on Frontage Road for a local brew. Info: www.belgradechamber.org.
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SPLASH AND SKATE
The Belgrade Splash Park is the place to take the family on a hot day, 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 very popular skate park. Info: www.ci.belgrade.mt.us.
HAVE AN ADVENTURE
Get out of town with Bridger Outfitters, at 14326 Rocky Mountain Rd. 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.
VISIT A GOAT DAIRY
CELEBRATE FALL
The annual Belgrade Fall Festival with its popular parade and car show, is Saturday, Sept. 21, this year. 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.belgradechamber.org.
GO TO THE RACES
The Gallatin Speedway, a three-eighths mile, semi-banked dirt track, hosts races Friday nights from June through mid-September. Races vary by car class – late models, street stocks, super-stocks and modifieds. Speeds range from 60 to 100 mph. The track is at 2290 Tubb Rd., on the northeast side of the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. Info: www.gallatinspeedway.com, 406-388-9666.
OTHER SPEEDWAYS AROUND THE STATE INCLUDE: BMP speedway, Billings, www.bmpspeedway.com Electric City Speedway, Great Falls, www.electriccityspeedway.com Lewistown Drag Racing, Lewistown, www.lewistowndragracing.com Lost Creek Raceway, Anaconda, www.lostcreek-raceway.com Mission Valley Speedway, Pablo, www.missionvalleyraceway.com Montana Raceway Park, Kalispell, www.montanaracewaypark.com Yellowstone Drag Strip/Intermountain Motorsports, Acton, www.yellowstonedragstrip.com
Most Montana natives are well aware of the creamy goat cheese goodness that comes from Amaltheia Organic Dairy. In business since 2000, 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 winters. Sue and Melvyn Brown welcome the public to tour the farm or cheese factory (no children at the factory, please). Call 406-388-0569 for farm reservations, 406-388-5950 for factory reservations. Info, or to order cheese: www.amaltheiadairy.com.
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 Dr. The season is already in full swing and runs through early August. Info: www.facebook.com/pg/belgradebandits.
ENJOY THE FARMERS MARKET
Featuring Montana-grown vegetables, baked goods, crafts, entertainment and more, the Belgrade Community Market is held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursdays, July 11 to Sept. 12, at Lewis and Clark Park, 205. E. Main St. Info: www.belgradecommunitymarket.com.
2018 Montana Retailer of the Year Ta k e - o u T d e l i & G i f T S h o p f e aT u r i n G o u r h o m e m a d e m e aT S , S a l a d S , deSSerTS & SoupS B u f fa l o, B e e f & E l k S a u s a g e S n a c k S t i c k s • Je r ky B u f fa l o B u rg e r a n d S te a k s B ra t w u r s t • B a c o n Beer and Wine H u c k l e b e r r y Favo r i te s a n d M o n ta n a T h e m e d G i f t B oxe s ! >>> ON THE WAY tO thE AirporT
Open 7 days a week // Mon - Fri 6:30am – 7pm Sat 8am - 7pm // Sunday 9am - 5pm 406.388.4687 or 1.800.752.1029 // 6410 Jackrabbit Lane Belgrade // www.chaletmarket.com
Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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SOLVE AN ESCAPE ROOM
For a fun time with friends, coworkers, of family members, try a brain-tingling puzzle with Escape Room Montana, Gallatin Valley’s first escape room business. With multiple puzzles available, two to six people can participate in themes including Syndrome Scientific, The Sorcerer and Apprentice, Cabin Fever and more. Test your problem solving and teamwork skills Friday-Sunday. All puzzles are given an hour to solve. Info: escaperoommt.com. Two other have since opened in nearby Bozeman, Escape 406, www.escape406.com, and Bozeman Breakout, www.bozemanbreakoutescaperoom.com.
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MANHATTAN AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
20 MILES • 24 MINUTES Daytrippers to Manhattan aren’t likely to leave with an empty stomach. The town is home to the legendary steakhouse Sir Scott’s Oasis, known for its classic Montana fare and plate-sized steaks, and the well-known Garden Cafe. Manhattan bills itself as a small town with lots of access to the outdoors. Walk through town, head out to the Gallatin River for some fishing, or attend a farmers market or festival. Info: Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, 112 S. Broadway, 406284-4162, www.manhattanareachamber.com.
CELEBRATE SPUDS
Manhattan hosts its annual Potato Festival 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, including the large number of taters grown in the vicinity. The family event starts with a fireman’s breakfast and includes a parade down Main Street
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at 11 a.m., live music at the Gazebo, a car show, arts and crafts vendors and more potato offerings than you can stomach. For the third year, it ends with a street dance, this time featuring music from Manhattan’s own Mark Longie and the Western Skies. Info: www. manhattanareachamber.com
BUY LOCAL GOODS
Held every Wednesday, June 19 to Sept. 11, from 4 to 7 p.m., the Manhattan Farmers Market features fresh vegetables, baked goods, arts and crafts, eggs and more. The farmers market also hosts live entertainment and kids’ activities. It’s at Railroad Park, at Main and Broadway streets.
GO GARAGE-SALEING
The Belgrade Chamber hosts the 2019 Garage-a-rama on Saturday, June 15. It’s a community-wide garage sale, so who knows what treasures you may uncover. Visit manhattanareachamber.com for a map and list of participating addresses.
Y E L LOWS TO N E
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LIVINGSTON AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
26 MILES • 30 MINUTES The architecture of downtown Livingston reveals old bones: Solid brick storefronts and saloons and the historic depot of the Northern Pacific Railroad. What was once a bustling railroad town is now 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 three intriguing museums, plus a host of delicious restaurants. Modern Livingston is an arts hub and a great place for daytripping and nighttime activities alike.
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DROP IN FOR A BURGER
At the end of the day, 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. and recently started accepting credit cards. Take your burger to go or eat it on the tiled wraparound bench. Info: www.marksbeefburgers.com.
JOIN A FLOTILLA
The 56th annual Yellowstone River Boat Float, retracing the route of William Clark of the Lewis and Clark expedition, 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, July 12. The float goes until the 14.
SAMPLE A LOCAL BREW
Livingston has two fun microbreweries: Katabatic at 117 W. Park St., serves regular pours and rotators, plus root beer for the kids and Mexican food from Fiesta en Jalisco next door. Info: www.katabaticbrewing.com. Neptune’s at 119 N. L St., serves a dozen-plus beers on tap, and the new companion restaurant at 232 S. Main St. offers the brews plus a full menu including surf-style sushi, burgers, salads, fired fish and more. Info: www.neptunesbrewery.com, neptunestaphouse.com.
VISIT A MUSEUM
Livingston is home to a variety of museums covering the history and culture of the area, as well as a favorite pastime. 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. It will feature Vignettes of History: Cultural Landscapes of Park County, a new multi-media exhibit from June to September, but is open year-round. Info: 406222-4184, www.yellowstonegatewaymuseum.org. 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 is openMay 18 to mid-September. Info: 406-222-2300, www.livingstondepot.org. The International Federation of Fly Fishers Museum at 5237 Highway 89 S, showcases the culture and history of the sport through a collection of objects, art, books and framed flies. Open MondayFriday year-round. Info: 406-222-9369, flyfishersinternational.org/ Resources/Museum-Library/Museum-Collection.
SADDLE UP
Mike Thompson 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 rave reviews. Home base is in the Paradise Valley, south of Emigrant. Info: 406-848-9953, www.yellowstonepacktrips.com.
SEE A SHOW
Livingston community theater productions are a popular draw, with two distinct theaters. The Blue Slipper Theatre, 113 E. Callender St., will produce Jane Austin’s “Pride and Prejudice” from Aug. 16 to Sept. 1 this year. Info: 406-222-7720, www.blueslipper.com. You’ll find musicals, plays, a great film series and more at the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts, 415 E. Lewis St. “Newsies” runs weekends from June 28 through July 21. Info: 406-222-1420, www.theshanecenter.org. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY
WRESTLE A PIG AT THE COUNTY FAIR
Music Ranch, just south of Livingston on Highway 89, fills Paradise Valley with country music all summer long. Local bands bring in crowds for dancing and the venue also hosts national touring acts like Rory Feek on July 11, Ronnie Milsap on Aug. 2 and Billy Dean on Aug. 8. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. Purchase a seat in the barn or sit on the hillside. Info: 406-222-2255, www.musicranchmontana.net.
Summers in small town Montana often feature one big weekend of events. In Livingston, there’s two. After people get some rest post-Fourth of July, the annual Park County Fair is July 25-28 at the Park County Fairgrounds, 46 View Vista Dr. There’s a carnival, rodeo, thousands of exhibits, pig wrestling, music, a demolition derby and more. Info: www.parkcounty.org.
TAKE IN TUNES UNDER THE STARS
FIND LOCAL PRODUCE AT THE FARMERS MARKET
Another Paradise Valley Venue, Pine Creek Lodge at 2496 E. River Rd., features concerts year-round, but they move outside in the summer to a stage nestled in a grove behind the restaurant. Acts include Billy Strings on June 11, Futurebirds on June 21, Justin Townes Earle on July 11, The Black Lillies on July 12 and Hayes Carll on July 26. Info: 406-222-3628, www.pinecreeklodgemontana.com/events.
FOURTH OF JULY FUN
Livingston is the place to be to celebrate America’s independence. Livingston’s Roundup Rodeo, held July 2-4 each year at the rodeo grounds, is a PRCA event featuring big name rodeo stars. There’s a parade at 3 p.m. on July 2, a kiddie rodeo on July 3 and nightly fireworks. (Get tickets in advance.) There’s a free slack rodeo, with overflow events on July 1 and 4. During the day, visit the annual Festival of the Arts at the Depot Center, a fine and crafts arts show (don’t miss the pie and Wilcoxson’s ice cream booths). Info: Details at www.livingstonroundup.com and www.livingston-chamber.com.
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Western Sustainability Exchange runs the Livingston’s Farmers Market, at the Miles Band Shell Park on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., May 29 to Sept. 11. The market features food, locally brewed beer, arts, baked goods, crafts, music and local produce. Many of the weeks follow a special theme. Info: www.westernsustainabilityexchange.org/lfm
WALK FOR ART
On the fourth Friday of the month June through September, Livingston holds a downtown Art Walk from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. There’s plenty of art to see at all those galleries, plus libations and nibbles at many spots along the way. For a list of area galleries, visit www.livingstongalleryassociation.com.
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THREE FORKS AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
31 MILES • 33 MINUTES Dubbed “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. There’s live music, a rodeo (July 19-20), a classic car show and the state’s only air race. The farmers market, with family activities, is 4-7 p.m. Thursdays July 11-Sept. 12, next to the Visitors Center, a Milwaukee Railroad caboose located in Milwaukee Railroad Park. The place to stay and dine is the historic Sacajawea Hotel, where the downstairs bar/restaurant has food almost as good as they serve Wednesday through Sunday evenings in the
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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: www.threeforksmontana.com.
FIND YOUR FESTIVAL FAMILY AT THE BRIDGE
A local concert venue, The Bridge in nearby Cardwell, plays host to two diverse summer festivals. Break out the cowboy boots, y’all, and get rowdy at Headwaters Country Jam. This three-day festival, the state’s largest country jam, is June 13-15. This year’s headliners at the Bridge include Big & Rich, Kelsea Ballerini, Rodney Atkins, Mark Chesnutt and Michael Ray. Info: www.headwaterscountryjam.com. If boot-scootin’ isn’t your cup of tea, Montana’s favorite Rockfest takes over the Bridge a few months after Headwaters Country Jam. This year’s festival, Aug. 8-10, features The Guess Who, Whiskey River, Warrant and many more. Info: www.rockintherivers.com.
SEE AN AIRSHOW
The 42nd annual Montana Antique Aircraft Association Fly-In is Aug. 2-3. Hundreds of antique aircraft buzz the skies and park at Pogreba Field. Activities include rides for kids, a breakfast and a dance. Young Eagle flights (free flights for kids 8-17) are on Thursday, Aug. 1 from 9 to 11 a.m. Info: maaa.info
STAND WHERE THE RIVERS CONVERGE
See where the three rivers form the Missouri, hike, bike, picnic, fish and explore Montana history at Missouri Headwaters State Park. A Speaker Series on Saturday evenings at 7 p.m. in the park's picnic area features programs on music or history with Humanities Montana and musicians like Rob Quist and Buck Buchanan. Following each presentation is a marshmallow roast over a campfire. Presentations are free and open to the public, just bring a chair. Info: www. stateparks.mt.gov/missouri-headwaters.
VISIT MADISON BUFFALO JUMP STATE PARK
This state park 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 this hunting technique in use up until about 200 years ago. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/madison-buffalo-jump.
JUMP OUT OF A PLANE
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., 406586-5867. Info: bozeman.dzoneskydiving.com
VISIT THE MUSEUM
The Headwaters Heritage Museum tells the story of the area’s history and culture, including railroad artifacts, mining and agriculture exhibits and Native American art and artifacts. 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, 202 S. Main St., is open daily; www.tfhistory.org
TOUR THE CAVERNS
Montana’s first state park, Lewis & Clark Caverns, is one of the largest, most colorful caverns 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
Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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BIG SKY AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
44 MILES • 56 MINUTES Located south of Bozeman off Highway 191, Big Sky has a year-round population of some 2,600 people. That number swells in summer and winter, as the town is home to Big Sky Resort and Moonlight Basin, 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 in 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; a big July 4 party at Town Center; and Big Sky Professional Bull Riders Competition July 25-27. Big Sky Resort opens June 2 with a full slate of summer activities including paintball, laser tag, scenic lift rides, ziplining, a high ropes course, climbing and more. Info: www.bigskyresort.com. Also visit Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, 55 Lone Mountain Trail, bigskychamber.com.
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a harness and a few hundred feet of steel cable, 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.yellowstonezip.com.
FOLF IT UP
Disc Golf fans can indulge at 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 of 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.
HIT THE TRAIL
Hiking and mountain biking are big summer fun, with favorite mountain bike trails including 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/hike-bike/ featured-trails/.
ENJOY MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS
Thursday nights from June 20 to Sept. 1, the Arts Council of Big Sky presents concerts by national touring musicians at Center Stage in Town center. They’re free and include acts like Halden Wofford and the Hi-Beams, Orgone, Hayes Carll, Marcia Ball, Town Mountain and Mt. Joy. See the list at www.bigskyarts.org. The annual Classical Music Festival is at the same locale Aug. 9-11. Info: bigskyarts.org/ big-sky-classical-music-festival/.
TAKE A FREE 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/hike-learn.
MONTANA WHITEWATER rafting & zipline
Locations in Bozeman, Gardiner, and north of Big Sky
VISIT CRAIL RANCH HOMESTEAD
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 tell the story of that past. 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 from July 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: bscomt.org/ crail-ranch-homestead-museum.
SOAR OVER THE RIVER
In summer, it’s not unusual to see squealing, screaming people shooting through the treetops over the Gallatin River. With the help of
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montanawhitewater.com
madisonrivertubing.com • yellowstonezip.com • yellowstonefish.com Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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ENNIS AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
52 MILES • 1 HOUR Art, fishing and the Fourth of July are big draws here. A walk through town takes 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 hook up with a horse outfitter (Bar 88 Horses-Wolfpack Outfitters, or Diamond J Guest Ranch and Horseback Riding). Info: www.ennischamber.com.
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CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE
The Ennis Fourth of July Parade is one of Montana’s best, 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: http://ennischamber. com/calendar.asp
VISIT THE FISH HATCHERY
Open daily at 180 Fish Hatchery Road, there’s a self-guided visitors center tour. Then walk through the hatchery building to see what’s coming to life. www.fws.gov/mountain-prairie/ fisheries/ennis
JUMP INTO ENNIS LAKE
Rent a personal watercraft for the day, go fishing or just enjoy splashing around in the water at Ennis Lake on a hot day. 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 reader beware: A friend broke his hip on that crazy thing, so jump at your own risk.
EXPLORE MADISON VALLEY HISTORY
The Madison Valley History Museum, located four miles west of Ennis on Highway 287, 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 1-4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, through September. Visit: madisonvalleyhistoryassociation.org.
SPEND A NIGHT UNDER THE STARS
The Ennis area features a variety of opportunities for camping, 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: 406-682-4430.
PERUSE LOCAL ARTS
The 24th annual Madison Valley Arts Festival is the Ennis Arts Association’s premiere event, bringing 48 juried arts and crafts vendors to Peter T’s Park on Main Street from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 10. The lively event also features music and other entertainment and an art raffle. Info: ennisarts.org
TRY WILLIE’S ANY TIME
No matter what brings you to Ennis, if you’re 21 or older, stop by Willie’s Distillery to try the local recipes, including Canadian whisky, 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. Visit williesdistillery.com.
TIES TO THE PAST
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 hosts a tent sale at the store from June 28 to 30, and then the annual Hunter’s Rendezvous from Aug. 16 to 18 highlights over 2300 firearms and 100 sporting brands represented by 43-factory reps onsite at the store at 103 W. Main St. Info: www. shedhorn.com.
Living History Farm May 25 – September 8 | Daily 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Free to all, all summer long!* Our skilled costumed interpreters will take you back in time as they demonstrate cooking skills and recipes from the 1890s, tend to the Heirloom Garden, and forge iron in the blacksmith’s shop. *The Living History Farm is free to all for the entire season! While the main museum will still charge regular admission fees, you can bring out-of-town guests, friends, and visitors to the Living History Farm for free! museumoftherockies.org 406.994.2251 | 600 W. Kagy Blvd., Bozeman, MT
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BIG TIMBER AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
60 MILES • 56 MINUTES The architecture of downtown Livingston reveals old bones: Solid 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 www.bigtimber.com.
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VISIT A RANGER STATION
About 30 miles south of Big Timber off Rt. 298, the historic Main Boulder Ranger Station built in 1905 is now a museum, open 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday-Sunday, 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. The Station served as both district head-quarters and home to Ranger Harry S. Kaufman and family for almost forty years beginning in 1905.Info: www.fs.usda.gov/detail/custergallatin/ learning/?cid=stelprdb5127786, or call 406-222-1892.
VIEW THE TOWN IN MINIATURE
The Crazy Mountain Museum highlights the events that shaped Sweet Grass County. 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 Memorial DaySept. 30. This summer, the Fjare Homestead Cabin reconstruction and new collections from Livingston archeologist Larry Lahren will open to the public. Info: www.crazymountainmuseum.com.
GOLF OVERLAND
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. See for yourself: www.overlandgolf.com.
WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE SHEEP
Montana-bred woolies charge down the streets of Reed Point during the 31st annual Great Montana Sheep Drive, set for Sunday, Sept. 1. 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/calendar/31st-annual-great-montana-sheep-drive-2019
ENJOY MUSIC AND MORE AT SWEET GRASS FEST
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Big Timber hosts its multi-event rodeo and Sweet Grass Fest from June 28 to 29, starting with the Big Timber Rodeo on Friday night. Saturday events include the Fireman’s Breakfast at 7 a.m., a 3-mile Montana On a Mission Fun Run at 8:30 a.m., kids events and a bike-decorating contest, vendor booths, a car and tractor show, a parade at 2 p.m. and a street concert, capped off with more rodeo action and another street concert. The Common Thread Quilt Show will also be held on the corner of 4th and McLeod Street. Info: www.bigtimber.com/sweetgrassfest
LEARN ABOUT FISH
The Yellowstone River Trout Hatchery, 17 Fairgrounds Rd., 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 406-932-4434.
VISIT PRAIRIE DOG TOWN
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 dome-shaped 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, black-footed ferrets, and mountain plovers. Plus, they’re cute. Visit stateparks.mt.gov/greycliff-prairie-dog-town or call 406-445-2326 for details.
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BIG TIMBER, MT Photo credit: Loretta Hurley
Celebrating Our 10th Anniversary
Artwork, Jewelry, Pottery, Ironwork, Rugs 226 McLeod St., BigTimber (406) 932-4009
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Photo credit: Christine Bakke
VIRGINIA CITY AERA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
66 MILES • 1 HOUR 17 MINUTES Pioneers made a fortune in gold in Virginia City in the 1860s, and now the remarkably well-preserved Victorian gold mining town is frozen in time. 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.
TAKE IN SOME LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
The Virginia City Players, performing melodrama and vaudeville in the Virginia City Opera House, are the oldest continually operat-
ing professional summer theatre company in the Northwest. The company performs every day but Monday through Sept. 2. Summer shows are “Zorro” from May 24 to June 30, “Alice in Wonderland from July 2 to Aug. 4 and “The Stygian Amulet from Aug. 6 to Sept 1. 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 1-800829-2969 ext. 3. Info: www.breweryfollies.net.
PARTICIPATE IN LIVING HISTORIC EVENTS
The Nevada City Nevada City Living History Museum & Music Hall hosts 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 among them, engage with them and experience life during the 1860s. Visit virginiacitymt.com/museum for a schedule. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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PUMP SOME GAS
Village Pump at 225 E. Wallace St. is a restored 1940s gas station that opened this spring. The attached Virginia City Information Center will be open May-September to learn about the area’s attractions The information center will include photos and information about the history of Virginia City and will be outfitted in the style of a historic mining shop. Gas pumps will be working via credit card 24/7/365 days a year. All revenue from gas pumps goes to restoration projects in Virginia City.
RIDE A TRAIN
The Virginia City 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 5 minutes prior to departure. Info: virginiacitymt.com/trains
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SEE ODDITIES AT THE THOMPSON-HICKMAN MUSEUM
Named after William Boyce Thompson and his wife, Gertrude Hickman, the Thompson-Hickman Library and Museum at 220 E. Wallace St. has an extensive photo collection showing much of Virginia City from the 1860s, rare guns, artifacts from the Chinese era, geological rock examples and fascinating oddities such as a petrified cat and Club Foot George’s club foot. The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. The library is open year-round.
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/gold for details.
July 11-13
Carroll College – Nelson Stadium Shodair Children’s Hospital brings Montana’s best women and men high school players to Helena to play in the 20th Annual Shodair Soccer Classic.
July 11th 20th Anniversary Celebration 7 pm
All Soccer Classic Alumni Welcome!
July 12th Kids Clinic 9 am-11 am
Free and open to children 5 to 12 years old
SAFE, ECONOMICAL, EFFICIENT & ECO-CONSCIOUS DID WE MENTION FARE FREE?
July 13th Women’s Game 1 pm Kickoff Men’s Game 3 pm Kickoff
Check Out the Live Bus Tracker Keep track of the bus and where it’s going to stop conveniently on our website at StreamlineBus.com
For more information visit Shodair.org or call (406) 444-7560
DOWNLOAD The RouteShout App Availible on iPhone and Android
MAY 24-SEPTEMBER 21, 2019
STREAMLINEBUS.COM Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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GARDINER AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
78 MILES • 1 HOUR 19 MINUTES Gardiner is the only year-round entrance to Yellowstone National Park. A small community of about 800 residents, 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.
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FIND ANSWERS TO YELLOWSTONE-RELATED QUESTIONS
At 308 E. Park Street, within the shadow of Roosevelt Arch, the Yellowstone Forever store offers the best assortment of guidebooks, kids’ books, clothes and gear around. The staff can also answer all your questions about the park and update you on wildlife sightings. For more store locations, visit shop.yellowstone.org/locations.
ENJOY AN EVENING AT THE RODEO
Gardiner’s NRA Rodeo, the Upper Yellowstone Roundup, is at Jim Duffy Arena north of town at 6 p.m. June 14-15. Events 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: Flying Pig Adventure Co., www.flyingpigrafting.com Montana Whitewater Raft Co., www.montanawhitewater.com Paradise Adventure Co., www.paradiserafting.com Wild West Rafting, www.wildwestrafting.com Yellowstone Raft Co., yellowstoneraft.com
CHECK OUT AN EVENT
The Gardiner Original Music Showcase is an all-original music concert benefit event for the North Yellowstone Education Foundation on Saturday, June 29. it features music by Ian Thomas, Jarret Kostrba, Lacy Nelson, Marley Ball and Daniel Kosel. Pig roast plates, beer and wine will be available for purchase. The Gardiner Brewfest in Arch Park on July 20 is a family friendly event with breweries, wineries, food, live music, artist vendors and a kid’s area. Info: www. visitgardinermt.com/events-blog/events.
TOUR YELLOWSTONE WITH A GUIDE
The Gardiner Chamber of Commerce lists several guides offering wildlife and/or photography tours in the park, and most all the operators have been in business for a good 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 www.gardinerchamber.com, under “activities.”
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YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
78 MILES • 1 HOUR 46 MINUTES America’s first national park contains some of the world’s most amazing wildlife and natural wonders. Whether you have been there many times or have yet to go, Yellowstone is worth the summer crowds. Just, please, don’t ask the employees when they turn the geysers on. Grab a book on day hikes through Yellowstone for optimum viewing pleasure. The park’s website, www.nps.gov/yell is the source for information, including weather conditions, road closures and an interactive map to help you plan your visit.
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LEARN ABOUT YELLOWSTONE
Yellowstone Forever, formerly the Yellowstone Association, offers multi-day small group courses and field seminars year-round that give people an insider’s look at the park. The organization’s singleand multi-day tours for families and small groups have long earned rave reviews, as have the lodging and learning programs offered with park hotels. You’ll want to book these in advance. Info: www.yellowstone.org.
ENJOY THE WATERS
Between Gardiner and the park headquarters at Mammoth is 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 suit under your clothes unless you want to change in the lone outhouse. Bring water bottles, but alcohol is prohibited.
HIKE SHORT, FUN TRAILS
Throughout the park are assorted short, fun trails to interesting lesser known spots. Some favorites are Trout Lake beyond the Lamar Valley, Lone Star Geyer 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.
SEE THE WONDERS OF OLD FAITHFUL
Near the center of the park, on the lower western loop of the park road system, is Old Faithful, the world’s most famous geyser, which goes off faithfully about every 90 minutes. Most people see it up close and go, but there are fun variations to the drill. Thirty to 60 minutes before an interruption, 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 see 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. Hours are 8 a.m.-8 p.m. through Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. through Nov. 5.
VIEW THE GIANT YELLOWSTONE LAKE
Not far from Old Faithful, but in a totally different landscape, is Yellowstone Lake. The pristine lake is inviting, but it’s also deathly cold; 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 beautiful Lake Hotel; it’s not as crowded then. There’s great shopping in the hotel gift shop too.
VIEW WILDLIFE
Those up before dawn and out after 7 p.m. have the best chance at the sighting bears, moose and wolves of Yellowstone. The Lamar and Hayden valleys are prime spots for looking. Carry binoculars and, if you’re going to hike, bear spray.
CHECK OUT OTHER VISITORS CENTERS
You’ll find trailheads, rangers, info – and often exhibits and/or dining options – near the following visitor centers. Info: www.nps.gov/yell/ planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm. Albright Visitor Center at Mammoth Hot springs With 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 Beyond the shopping and dining options at this location, visit the education center to see a film on the geology of the park, a roomsize 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 Exhibits on 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. It is staffed by retired rangers always happy to answer questions. Norris Geyser Basin Exhibits about the hydrothermal features of Yellowstone, a partnerrun bookstore and general park information. West Thumb Information Station Pique your curiosity before exploring the adjacent geyser basin on the shore of Yellowstone Lake. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
78 MILES • 1 HOUR 33 MINUTES 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. The first bath house was built in 1866, but you can still soak in the waters today. White Sulphur Springs is surrounded by Little Belt, Big Belt and Castle mountains, and the town is at the headwaters of the Smith River. It’s a top trout stream and a float trip down Smith River Canyon is billed as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Surrounded by multiple trout streams, four reservoirs and four lakes, and hundreds of miles of miles of National Forest land and trails, greater Meagher County is a fine place to get away outdoors. Info: meagherchamber.org.
RELAX IN THE HEALING WATERS
The Spa Hot Springs Motel downtown is the place to soak in the area’s medicinal waters. There are two outdoor pools and another indoors, with temperatures ranging from 98 to 103 degrees. Open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. year-round, the pools are drained nightly. The chemistry of the waters reportedly rivals that of world-famous Baden-Baden, Germany. Info: www.spahotsprings.com.
VISIT THE CASTLE
Built in 1892 by Bryon Roger Sherman, the “castle” mansion is now the home of the Meagher County Museum. Its 12 rooms contain period furniture, mineral samples, clothing and artifacts. The carriage
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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 406-547-2324.
TOUR THE BAIR MUSEUM
Thirty minutes east of White Sulphur Springs, in Martinsdale, is 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 and Henry Sharp and photographer Edward S. Curtis. A gift shop features books by Montana authors and about the American West and its history, 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.
GET DUSTY AT RED ANTS PANTS MUSIC FESTIVAL
A wildly popular festival put on by the women’s clothing company of the same name, the Red Ants Pants Music Festival is July 25-28. It begins with a street dance on Thursday, then expands into three days of music in a cow pasture. Food and craft vendors and a kids’ tent are part of the fun, along with a demonstration area where you can learn new skills or watch the exciting cross-cut competition. This year’s lineup includes Patty Griffin, Shakey Graves, Bobby Bare, Colter Wall, Valerie June, Suzy Bogguss, The White Buffalo, Darrell Scott, Mipso, The Steel Wheels, The Waifs, Dustbowl Revival, and more. One-day or three-day passes available. Info: redantspantsmusicfestival.com
BUTTE AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
85 MILES • 1 HOUR 18 MINUTES “The Richest Hill on Earth,” Butte was once one of the world’s largest copper producing districts. 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. Crystal Park near the Wise River is a favorite for families of crystal hunters. For the adventurous 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: www. buttecvb.com.
VISIT THE PIT
A former open pit copper mine and federal Superfund site, the Berkeley Pit is one of the only places where you can pay to see toxic waste. 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. March through October. Info: 406-723-3177, www.pitwatch.org.
TAKE THE TROLLEY TOUR
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. Tours run daily at 12:30 p.m. from Memorial Day Saturday through September. Info: www.buttechambersite.org/ the-trolley.
GO UNDERGROUND
The Underground City Tour, showcasing a seedier side of the historic city, 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 ethnic past. All are walking tours, led by local historians. Offered Monday through Saturday, Sunday by reservation only, all summer. Info: buttetours.info, 406-498-3424.
TOUR A MANSION
Construction of the four-story, red brick, Copper King Mansion 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 34-room Victorian mansion at 219 W. Granite St. is a lavishly decorated bed and breakfast. Public tours are offered daily in summer, at 10 a.m. and noon, 2 and 3:30 p.m. Info: 406-782-7580 or www.copperkingmansion.com. 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- 4 p.m., Thursday through Sunday in summer, with a single daily tour a 1 p.m. Tour guides lead groups through the building’s seemingly 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. No — 05 Hit tHe cOUNty Fair The Butte-Silver Bow County Fair will be held Aug. 2-5 at the Butte Civic Center. Info: www.buttesilverbowfair.com.
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EXPLORE THE MUSEUMS
The Piccadilly Transportation Memorabilia Museum, 20 W. Broadway St., features a large display 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, Memorial Day through Oct. 1. Info: www.piccmuseum.com. The World Museum of Mining, at 155 Museum Way, preserves the history of Butte and the legacy of its rich mining and cultural heritage. Located on a mine yard, it features 50 exhibit buildings, 66 primary exhibits and countless artifacts, and an underground mine tour. It’s open daily mid-April through Oct. 31. Children under 5 can tour the museum but not the mine. Info: www.miningmuseum.org. The Jefferson Valley Museum located about 30 minutes southeast of Butte in Whitehall, 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: www.mbmg.mtech.edu/museum/museum.asp.
The Mai Wah museum at 17 W. Mercury St., in the old Mai Wah Noodle Parlor and Wah Chong Tai Mercantile buildings, tells the history of Butte’s large Chinese population at the turn of the last century. There’s also a fine art collection. It is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, early June through late September; other times by appointment. Info: maiwah.org.
ATTEND A FESTIVAL
Montana Folk Festival In 2011, Butte began hosting the Montana Folk Festival after three years of hosting the National Folk Festival. It’s the largest free outdoor music festival in the Northwest. The 2019 Montana Festival is July 12-14 in Butte’s Historic District. It features performances and demonstrations by some of the region’s finest musicians, dancers and craftspeople, with multiple stages, a participatory dance pavilion, family fun area and food and craft vendors. Info: www.montanafolkfestival.com. An Ri Ra Montana Irish Festival The An Ri Ra Montana Irish Festival is a celebration of Butte’s Irish heritage, Aug. 9-11, located at Butte’s Original Mine Yard. Bring lawn chairs and umbrellas to enjoy the outdoor setting. Info: www. mtgaelic.org/an-ri-ra-montana-irish-festival.
GO TO THE DRIVE-IN
Enjoy a movie outdoors at the Silver Bow Drive In outdoor movie theater. The theater is open seasonally, just a few minutes south of Butte on German Gulch Road. Movies are $6 per person and free for kids 3 and under. Cash only. Info: www.silverbowdrivein.com.
SET UP CAMP
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: 406494-2147. 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: 406-494-2147. Soak or slide at Fairmont Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, just west of Butte, 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.
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TWIN BRIDGES AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
86 MILES • 1 HOUR 22 MINUTES Twin Bridges is a well-known fly fishing mecca. 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 wet a line. 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.
JUMP IN A LAKE
The Ruby Reservoir is nine miles south of Alder (which is south of Twin Bridges). The reservoir is a great place to go on a hot summer day and includes boat access. 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 A SMALL-TOWN COUNTY FAIR
The Madison County Fair will be held Aug. 7-11 at the Madison County Fairgrounds in Twin Bridges. The fair features exhibits, vendors, food and entertainment. The theme for the 2019 fair is Traditions Run Deep. Info: madison.mt.gov.
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: 406-684-5121.
EAT AT THE WAGON WHEEL
No matter what meal you’re in town for, you can get it at the Wagon Wheel Steakhouse & BBQ, 207 N. Main. The Dustin Family serves breakfast, lunch and dinner Mondays through Saturdays, along with brick-oven-baked pizzas and prime rib every day. They’re known for their real smoked ribs and pulled pork and housemade seasonings and sauces. Info: www.wagonwheelmt.com. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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WEST YELLOWSTONE AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
86 MILES • 1 HOUR 45 MINUTES Whether you are headed into Yellowstone National Park or on your way out, many people enjoy a pitstop in West Yellowstone. With several one-of-a-kind attractions, restaurants and souvenir shops, 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 knows how to 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.
VISIT THE GRIZZLY & WOLF DISCOVERY CENTER
To experience the world of grizzly bears and gray wolves, visit the nonprofit Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, home to several bears, wolves and birds of prey. A riparian river otter exhibit will open in summer 2019. A top attraction in town, the center features a variety of programs and a permanent exhibit. It’s open 365 days a year. Info: www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org.
WATCH A MOVIE ON THE GIANT SCREEN
West Yellowstone is home to a movie theater screen that’s six stories tall, the only giant screen theater in a 12-state area. By day, see nature films, and then enjoy the latest feature films each night.
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Through the stunning film “Yellowstone” as well as displays located in the lobby, visitors can see the true Yellowstone as it is today and as it was a hundred and 100,000 years ago. Info: www.yellowstonegiantscreen.com.
BRING A BIKE
The West Yellowstone Ski Education Foundation, organized in the 1990s to promote cross country skiing, champions this area’s wonderful trail biking opportunities too. The Rendezvous Trails System and Continental Divide Trail, so popular with winter recreationists, are great for summer biking. Or, if you like road biking, 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 a killer, in a fun way. 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 on July 13. It’s great for novices and for experienced biathlon athletes looking for a practice run. Get info on all these options at www.skirunbikemt.com.
EXPLORE QUAKE LAKE
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: www.fs.usda. gov/detail/custergallatin/learning/?cid=stelprdb5127785
GO GLAMPING
Try glamorous camping, or “glamping,” on your next trip to West Yellowstone. Under Canvas has one of its 5 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: www.undercanvas.com.
ATTEND SMOKING WATERS MOUNTAIN MAN RENDEZVOUS
See how the mountain men did things during the 14th annual Smoking Waters Mountain Man Rendezvous and 1800s Living History Encampment from Aug. 2 to 11 at the Old Airport. Admission is free to the public from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event includes entertainment, demonstrations and seminars related to trades and crafts of the 1800s. Info: www.twoturtlestradingpost.com or www.crazycrow. com/site/event/smoking-waters-mountain-man-rendezvous.
COWBOY 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 12 to Aug. 31. Tickets are available in advance or at the gate. Info: www.yellowstonerodeo.com.
YELLOWSTONE HISTORIC CENTER
Discover the history of travel to 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. 8, 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
Just 15 miles west of West, over the Targhee Pass, is Island Park, Idaho, a place of dense pine forests and fishing streams, three lakes, beautiful resorts like Lakeside Lodge and a 35-mile-long Main Street. It sits inside a caldera formed in prehistoric times when a volcano collapsed. 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. Cabins are available for rent; there’s camping too. The park is open through mid-October. Info: parksandrecreation.idaho.gov. For a beautiful drive, take the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway, offering views of Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, which drop 106 and 65 feet respectively. For another water adventure, visit Big Springs, 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.
SIP AT THE SODA FOUNTAIN
The Eagle’s Store, 3 Canyon St., 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: www.eagles-store.com.
COOL OFF AT HEBGEN LAKE
Located about 20 miles 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. Info: www.visitmt. com/listings/general/lake/hebgen-lake.html.
ADVENTURE 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. New this year is a sluice mining area fun for the whole family. Info: www.yellowstoneparkzipline.com. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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HELENA AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
97 MILES • 1 HOUR 41 MINUTES The state’s capital has a rich history and culture, owing its existence to the discovery of gold, silver and lead. The boom brought by the 1864 gold strike led to Helena being known as the “Queen City of the Rockies” and the state’s capital 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, and another 400 miles of trails in the area. In summer and through Oct. 16, the free Trail Rider shuttles take folks to various trailheads. Visit bikehelena.com for maps and routes. The Visitor Information Center, 105 Reeders Alley, is open June-August, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Info: www.helenamt.com.
TOUR THE ORIGINAL GOVERNOR’S MANSION
Built in 1888, the Original Governor’s Mansion, 304 N. Ewing, was home to nine Montana governors and their families. It’s open for summer hours May 15-Sept. 15, Tuesday-Saturday, with tours at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. If you can’t visit, the website has a link to a virtual tour. Info: mhs.mt.gov/education/ogmtours.
TOUR BY TRAIN OR TROLLEY
The Last Chance Train and Trolley Tour takes visitors on 1-hour tours of historic Helena via open-air trains and climate-controlled trolley. It operates June 1-Sept. 15, daily except Sunday, departing from the Montana Historical Society, at Sixth and Roberts streets just east of the Capitol. Info: lctours.com.
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EXPLORE A MUSEUM
ExplorationWorks 995 Carousel Way ExplorationWorks is a science center, open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the summer. Exhibits explore the physics of water; investigate how we see and the evolution of motion pictures; and follow the life cycle of baby trout. From May to September 2019, delve into the science of earthquakes, tectonic plates and tsunamis, and what earthquake engineers are doing to make our world safer in When the Earth Shakes. Info: explorationworks.org. Montana’s Museum 225 N. Roberts The Montana Historical Society is the guardian of Montana’s memory, 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-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A combo ticket includes the Original Governor’s Mansion. Info: mhs. mt.gov/Museum. Montana Military Museum 419 Hayes Ave., at Fort Harrison National Guard Base The Montana Military Museum, honoring Montanans who have served their country, is still a work in progress. This effort to tell Montana’s rich military history is a joint effort by the Department of Military Affairs, the Montana National Guard Museum Activity, and the Fort William Henry Harrison Museum Foundation. It is open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there’s a virtual tour at www. montanamilitarymuseum.org.
VISIT 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 Rd., off Interstate 15 south of Helena in Jefferson City. Info: www.tizergardens.com.
HONOR MONTANA’S FIRST LADY OF FILM
Located in the historic Lewis and Clark County Jail, 15 N. Ewing St., downtown, the Myrna Loy Center is a movie theater, art gallery and setting for live performances. 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 Norma Charles in “The Thin Man” series. Info: myrnaloycenter.com.
EXPLORE CONTEMPORARY WESTERN ART
The Holter Museum, 12 E. Lawrence St., is open from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday. With changing exhibits and a permanent collect showcasing the contemporary work of Western artists of the last 75 years. Art is a Moving Target: paintings by Sheila Miles is on view in the Sherman Gallery from May to July 2019. An Archie Bray Foundation Resident Exhibition on view in the Bair Gallery from May 24 to July 28 features work by Richard W. James, Yoonjee Kwak, Kyle Johns, Christina Erives and Benjamin Carter. Admission is free. Info: www.holtermuseum.org.
SPEND THE DAY 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.
SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
About 30 minutes south of Helena, Montana’s historic Boulder Hot Springs Inn and Spa, 31 Hot Springs Rd., 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 9 p.m. through October. Info: www.boulderhotsprings.com.
PASS THROUGH THE GATES OF THE MOUNTAINS
Explorer Meriwether Lewis was struck by the steep canyon walls and towering rock formations on the Missouri River north of present-day Helena, which he observed during his famous expedition with William Clark in 1804-1806. He named the area Gates of the Mountains, noting in his journal that “in many places, the rocks seem ready to tumble on us.” 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 Sept. 22. The tour passes Mann Gulch, where 13 smokejumpers died in 1949; Norman Maclean tells their story in “Young Men & Fire.” Info: www. gatesofthemountains.com.
SUPPORT LOCAL ARTISTS
The Archie Bray Foundation, on the National Register of Historic Places, 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 self-guided tours 7 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays. 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-guided 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 of the Capitol. Info: mhs.mt.gov/education/Capitol.
RIDE THE CAROUSEL
Helena is home to the Great Northern Carousel, a modern, handbuilt, 40-foot carousel with 37 hand-carved and hand-painted wooden animals, including a grizzly bear and cutthroat trout. It was closed over the winter for renovations and repairs, but should be open in time for summer. The carousel is adjacent to the Great Northern Ice Cream Co., 989 Carousel Way. For hours and more information, visit greatnortherncarousel.com.
STROLL LAST CHANCE GULCH
Downtown Helena’s pedestrian mall is always a pleasant place to walk, past art galleries and unique shopping and dining opportunities. It stretches for blocks.
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ANACONDA AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
108 MILES • 1 HOUR 40 MINUTES Anaconda is home to one of the tallest freestanding brick structures in the world. The Anaconda Smelter Stack, at 100 Smelter Rd., 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
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SEE A MOVIE IN STYLE
The Washoe Theater, 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, its decorated with murals and ornamented in silver, copper and gold leaf. It shows movies nightly; cash only. Info: www.washoetheatre.com, 406-563-6161.
COMMEMORATE COPPER
The Copper Village Museum and Art Center, at 401 E. Commercial Ave., displays traditional, heritage and world arts and houses the Marcus Daly Historical Society Museum. It’s open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday. The impressive and solid red brick structure, built in 1896, was saved from demolition and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Info: cvmac.org or www.facebook.com/ CopperVillageMuseumAndArtCenter.
DROP INTO THE SNAKE PIT
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.
PLAY 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.oldworks.org.
GO TO PRISON (TO SEE THE EXHIBITS)
Located at 1106 Main St. in nearby Deer Lodge, the Old Prison Museum complex takes up six city blocks, so wear comfortable shoes. Once the state prison, the old brick structures behind the gray stone wall were mainly built by prisoners. The actual Old Prison Museum houses the intimidating Cell House and Black Box of maximum security. Don’t miss out the cement shoes, weighing 20 pounds each, which were assigned to possible escapees. This museum is open daily, 10-5. 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, Indians 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.
TRY RANCHING
The historic Grant-Kohrs Ranch, 266 Warren Lane in Deer Lodge, 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 5:30 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. Rangerled 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
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.
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DILLON AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
115 MILES • 1 HOUR 51 MINUTES Forbes Magazine named Dillon one of “America’s Prettiest Little Towns” in 2010. 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. Info: southwestmt.com/communities/dillon.htm.
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TAKE A SOAK AT ELKHORN
At the end of a long day, take some time to relax in the hot springs 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: www. elkhornhotsprings.com.
VISIT THE BEAVHERHEAD COUNTY MUSEUM
The Beavherhead County Museum features a number of exhibits, including military artifacts, mammoth fossils, a miniature railroad exhibit, mining and farming equipment, a railroad pocket watch exhibit and a new exhibit, “In Good Faith.” It’s open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Info: beaverheadcounty.org/departments/beaverhead-county-museum.
GAZE AT 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: w.umwestern.edu/section/fine-arts-gallery/
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EXPLORE A GHOST TOWN
Bannack, founded in 1862 when John White discovered gold at Grasshopper Creek, is the best preserved of all Montana’s ghost towns. Located 25 miles southwest of Dillon, it became a state park during the 1950s. It hosts a variety of events and activities, including Bannack Days the third weekend in July, a Living History Weekend in September and Bannack Ghost Walks in October. Bannack also has guided and self-guided tours, gold panning and more. Info: www. bannack.org.
SEARCH 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 inches long and clear, cloudy, white, gray or purple. Info: www.fs.usda.gov/activity/bdnf/recreation/rocks-minerals
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PRETEND TO BE CLARK AT THE LOOKOUT
That would 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
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. But it’s best for humans to visit in summer only; the roads in the refuge are dirt too. 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.
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FISHTAIL AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
122 MILES • 1 HOUR 53 MINUTES Since 1900, this little town on the edge of the Absaroka Beartooth Mountains within the Custer National Forest has been known for its fishing, in the Stillwater River and Fiddler and Rock creeks, and day hikes. Lots of folks like the Pine Grove and Emerald Lake campgroups. There are guest lodges and cabins in the area too. The new draw, and it’s a popular one, is the arts.
VISIT A HISTORIC GENERAL STORE
The economic anchor 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, special-
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ty 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: www.facebook.com/Fishtail-General-Store-110661875613536/, 406-328-4260
SEE ARTS IN THE WILD
Set on a 12,000-acre working sheep and cattle ranch, Tippet Rise Art Center hosts classical chamber music and recitals and exhibits largescale, outdoor sculptures by the likes of Patrick Dougherty, Stephen Talasnik, Mark di Suvero, Ensamble Studio and Alexander Calder. The popular weekend classical music series has tickets determined by a lottery each spring, but the art center is open for guided electric van tours, or unguided bicycling or walking treks, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays-Sundays, July 5 to mid-September. Reservations and info: tippetrise.org.
PHILIPSBURG AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
138 MILES • 2 HOUR 28 MINUTES 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. Info: visitphilipsburg.com.
MINE AWAY
The Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine, “Montana’s oldest, largest and funnest,” is 22 outside town on the Skalkaho Highway, and open through Sept. 2 from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 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 flume and fun geodes and gifts. Info: montanagems.net.
SEE GRANITE’S GHOSTS
A steep, narrow winding road that gains 1,280 feet leads to Granite Ghost Town State Park outside town; be prepared to pull over for on-
coming 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 May through September. Info: http://stateparks.mt.gov/granite-ghost-town.
TREAT YOURSELF
Each trip to Philipsburg seems to include a stop in the Sweet Palace, the town’s well-known hand-crafted candy shop. Open since 1998 at 109 E. Broadway, it offers chocolates, fudge, hard candy, taffy and more. Closed Saturdays. Info: www.sweetpalace.com.
SPEND AN AFTERNOON AT A MUSEUM
Philipsburg has 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.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.
TRY A LOCAL BREW
For adult libations and growlers to go, check out the local microbrewery, Philipsburg Brewing Company, at 101 W. Broadway in the historical Sayers Building. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and features live music on Friday and Saturday night. Info: www.philipsburgbrew.com
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BILLINGS AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
146 MILES • 2 HOUR 14 MINUTES Billings is Montana’s largest city with a population of more than 104,000. A gateway to outdoor adventure in the 120,000-acre Big Horn Canyon Recreational Area and a home base with culture and nightlife, Billings is dubbed Montana’s Trailhead. With endless recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking and camping, as well as theaters, sporting events, historical sites and more, there is never a shortage of activities. Info: www.visitbillings.com.
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SEE 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 Labor Day. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/pictograph-cave.
CHECK OUT CLARK’S SIGNATURE
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 Captain 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. Current exhibits include Charles H. Barstow Collection of Crow and Gros Ventre Indian Ledger Art through Sept. 21 and Please Don’t Feed the Bears: Close Encounters with Yellowstone Wildlife through Dec. 28. Info: www.ywhc.org.
VISIT 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. 9-17. Headliners include 98° and Old Dominion. Info: www.montanafair.com.
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MAKE A SPLASH
The Reef Indoor Water Park, 1801 Majestic Ln., 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.
GO TO THE ZOO
Montana’s only zoo is ZooMontana, located on the westside of Billings at 2100 S. Shiloh Rd. The 70-acre facility, featuring habitats for tigers, grizzly bears and more, is open year-round 10 a.m.-4 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.
PLAY IN COONEY RESERVOIR
Cooney Reservoir, located just 40 minutes south of Billings, 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: stateparks. mt.gov/cooney for more information.
CHEER ON THE MUSTANGS
Catch the action of the Billings Mustangs, the Pioneer League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, at Dehler Park, 2611 Ninth Ave. N. Games run June 14 to Sept. 7. The Mustangs have won 15 Pioneer League titles, more than any other team in the Pioneer League. As the Cincinnati Reds start the 2019 season, seven former Mustangs are on the Major League roster: Joey Votto, Tucker Barnhart, Amir Garrett, Jesse Winker, Tyler Mahle Alex Blandino, & Robert Stephenson. Info: www.milb.com/billings
WALK TO BEER IN THE BREWERY DISTRICT
This self-guided, walkable 1.5-mile tour takes in six breweries and two distilleries, so you may indeed want to walk it and arrange for someone to drive you to your overnight accommodations after. 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
UNLEASH YOUR INNER SOMMELIER
Fourth-generation Montanan Clint Peck chased cows for 30 years before switching to the finer things in life, namely running Yellowstone Cellars and Winery, 1335 Holiday Circle. 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. Info: yellowstonecellars.com.
TOUR THE MOSS MANSION
Preston Boyd Moss built the three-story, 28-room Moss Mansion, 914 Division St., in 1903. Today, the house and its original fixtures remain intact and 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 Friday and Saturday at 1 p.m. Info: www.mossmansion.com.
ADMIRE 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 features String Theory: Mixed Media Work by Sharon Kagan and Michel Desroches: Between the Lines through July 7. The North by Northwest Juried Art Show and America the Beautiful: Photographs by Clyde Butcher from mid-July to October. It’s open daily except Mondays. Info: www.artmuseum.org.
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RED LODGE AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
146 MILES • 2 HOUR 14 MINUTES In 2003, American Cowboy magazine wrote, “If you have any problems in Red Lodge, it’ll be deciding what to do and see first.” The intervening years have not cured that problem for this scenic town south of Laurel, which 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 fun too, with a wide variety of interesting shops and too many choices for fine dining and indulging your sweet tooth. T At the Red Lodge Mountain Resort, the 18-hole public golf course hugs the Beartooth Mountains, offering 100-mile views that can make it difficult 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 Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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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 on Tuesday, July 2, Wednesday, July 3 and Thursday, July 4. There are parades in Red Lodge at noon each day. The parade theme is Hometown Pride. Info: redlodgerodeo.com.
FIND ART IN THE BEARTOOTHS
The Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery will host their 46th annual Art in Beartooths event in Lions Club Park on Saturday, July 13. Featured artists are Terry Cooke Hall from Bozeman, Sonja Caywood from Dayton, Wyoming and Marcia Selsor from Red Lodge. Stop by and see artists paint at the Depot Gallery from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets to the evening fundraiser are $60, and the event sells out. The proceeds from this fundraiser go to student scholarships, preservation of the historic depot building and local arts and cultural programs. Info: www.carboncountydepotgallery.org
BET ON A PIG
Featured in the national news, 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-Sunday through Labor Day. The saloon is 7 miles east of town on Highway 308. Info: www.redlodge.com/bearcreek.
SEE A WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Red Lodge is home to the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary, a public refuge that houses animals that cannot survive on their own in the wild. Among the residents are elk, gray wolves, black bears, owls and coyotes. The sanctuary is open for visitors Thursday to Monday, and Wednesday for guided tours by appointment only. The address is 615 Second St. East. Info: www.yellowstonewildlifesanctuary.org
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For a full tour schedule, visit: ShakespeareInTheParks.org
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NAVIGATE THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY
The Beartooth Highway is a 68-miles, two-lane ramble from Red Lodge to Cooke City, through some of the highest, most rugged terrain in the Rockies. With stopping places along the way, it provides views of alpine forest and tundra and more than 20 peaks topping 12,000 feet, plus a spectacular waterfall. 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.
LEARN SOME 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 Tuesday to Saturday through Sept. 30. Info: www.carboncountyhistory.com.
LEWISTOWN AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
162 MILES • 2 HOUR 42 MINUTES Located in the middle of the state, Lewistown calls itself the Heart of Montana. 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, artist and craftsmen. Info: enjoylewistown.com.
WALK PAST PICTOGRAPHS
The Lundin family has been the keeper of this cultural treasure for five generations, offering guided 1.5-mile walks past centuries-old pictographs and petroglyphs in a scenic canyon on their property. There is a two-hour guided tour at 10 a.m. Wednesday-Sunday through Sept. 30. Any other time is by appointment. Info: www.beargulch.net.
TAKE IN TOWN SIGHTS
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, backed 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/
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TREK INTO THE WILDERNESS
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 self-guided 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.
PLAN FOR AN EVENT
Highlights of the Pioneer Power Days on June 8 and 9 include a “slow race” featuring a parade of early model tractors and steam engines, a full blacksmith shop, an early 1900’s shingle mill, old time hay balers and rock crushers and other various demonstrations. The 34th annual Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Western Music Rendezvous from Thursday, Aug. 15 to Sunday, Aug. 18 features 50 hours of cowboy poetry, music and a Western art and gear show. Day headquarters is at Fergus High School, 1001 Casino Creek Rd. Headliner is the Bellamy Brothers. Info: montanacowboypoetrygathering.com. The Lewistown Chokecherry Festival on
Saturday, Sept. 7, features a pancake breakfast, car show, vendor booths, a chokecherry run, a pit-spitting contest and a chokecherry cooking contest. Info: lewistownchokecherry.com.
BOARD THE CHEW CHOO
The Charles Russell Chew Choo offers a 56-mile round-trip dinner train experience, complete with entertainment, every Saturday through Oct. 5. Cross two historic trestles and passthrough a halfmile 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.
FOLLOW THE MONTANA BALE TRAIL
The Montana Bale Trail 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, beginning at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 8. Live ballot voting ends at 5 p.m. Info: www.montanabaletrail.com
L A S I K SEE LIFE CLEARLY JO O I N US FOR FO FA M I LY F U N MORRISON-MAIERLE PA R D N E R S C O R R A L
406-453-1613 or 1-800-541-2417
Mark F. Ozog M.D. | 1417 9th Street South #100 Great Falls, MT 59405
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Extreme Dog Show Freckle Farm Petting Zoo Pony Rides, Turkey Races, Bugology and More!
4 0 6 S TAT E FA I R . C O M
GREAT FALLS AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
185 MILES • 2 HOUR 52 MINUTES Called the “Electric City” because of its numerous dams and power plants, Great Falls is located on the Missouri River among the fi ve falls that were both a spectacle and formidable barrier to early river travel. Lewis and Clark spent nearly a month portaging around the falls in 1805. Grand vistas can be found in every direction, as the city is surrounded by mountains and buttes on three sides. Info: www.genuinemontana.com and greatfallscvb.visitmt.com.
TOUR 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 Tuesday to Sunday in summer. Info: www.cmrussell.org.
LEARN MORE ABOUT LEWIS & CLARK
Merriwether Lewis and William Clark might enjoy knowing that their difficult month at Great Falls, and their expedition, is recalled and celebrated at The Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center, at 4201 Giant Springs Rd. Start your indoor journey 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
SEE GIANT SPRINGS
Lewis and Clark discovered Giant Springs in 1805. It’s one of the largest freshwater springs in the world, with a flow of 156-190 million gallons of water per day. Birdwatching is good here too, and there’s a fish hatchery for rainbow trout and salmon. The visitor center has good wildlife exhibits. The state park is at 4600 Giant Springs Rd. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/giant-springs/
TAKE A HIKE
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. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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MISSOULA AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
185 MILES • 2 HOUR 52 MINUTES The “Garden City,” is known as the state’s cultural center. See a concert at the historic Wilma Theatre, 131 S. Higgins Ave., or enjoy a cultured evening at one of the museums, galleries or stage theaters. Entertain the kids at two water parks, the Children’s Museum at 225 Front St., Mobash Skate Park or the Hub at 104 S. Higgins (with a go kart track and laser tag area). Missoula is home to the University of Montana and a multitude of recreational opportunities, and more than half a dozen breweries. You could spend days enjoying everything. Info: destinationmissoula.org.
RUN A MARATHON
Named the Best Marathon in the United Stated by Runner’s World Magazine in 2010, the scenic Missoula Marathon draws runners from all over. This year’s race is July 28-30\.The weekend of events includes a free beer run, the Missoula 5K, a kids marathon where miles are logged as training prior to a fun run, a runner expo and the marathon and half-marathon. Info: www.missoulamarathon.org.
VISIT AMERICA’S COOLEST GHOST TOWN
That’s how Travel & Leisure Magazine has described Garnet Ghost Town, at 3255 Fort Missoula Rd. 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.
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COOL OFF AT A WATER PARK
Splash Montana offers three-story waterslides, spray features, a lazy river and more. It’s at 600 Cregg Ln. Right next door is the Mobash Skate Park with 15,000 square feet of bowls, bank walls, rails and terraced includes. Currents Aquatic Center at McCormick Park, 600 Cregg Ln., offers water slides, spray features and a hot tub. Info: www.ci.missoula.mt.us.
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: 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.
HIKE SENTINEL
If you have seen the “M” on a mountain in Missoula, you have seen 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.
HAVRE AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
271 MILES • 4 HOUR 50 MINUTES 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.
UNDERGROUND TOUR
The Havre Beneath the Streets tour 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: http://havrechamber.com/whattodo/item/havre-beneath-thestreets-2.
EXPLORE THE BEARS 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.
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.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, and noon-5 p.m. on Saturday through Labor Day. Fort Assiniboine is located six miles southwest of Havre on Highway 57. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for children. The H. Earl Clack Museum, in the Holiday Village Shopping Center, presents the history of the Hi-Line and some impressive dinosaur fossils that put it on Montana’s Dinosaur Trail. It is open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and noon-5 p.m. on Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission is free. Info: www.hearlclackmuseum.org
VISIT THE FRANK DEROSA RAILROAD MUSEUM
The Frank Derosa Railroad Museum offers a brief history of the railroad, a relay office re-creation, a hands-on reference library, original hand push carts, a working block signal and a complete model railroad. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Saturday. Visit the museum at 120 3rd Ave. For more information, visit havrechamber. com or call 406-265-4383.
SATISFY A SWEET TOOTH
Henny Penny Cupcakes, at 215 Third Ave., has been offering gourmet cupcakes and all-occasion cakes to locals and visitors alike since 2012. The shop also features rotating soups, salads and sandwiches for a quick lunch. Big Sky Publishing • SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2019 |
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BIGFORK AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
273 MILES • 4 HOUR 55 MINUTES Bigfork 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 and 4. 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.
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EXPERIENCE FLATHEAD LAKE
At nearly 30 miles long and 15 miles across, Flathead Lake 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 big, 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. 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, www.flatheadlakesailing.com and Pointer Scenic Cruises, wildhorseislandboattrips.com.
TRY A COCKTAIL AT WHISTLING ANDY’S
This distillery at 8541 Highway 35, 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.
TAKE IN LOCAL MUSIC
A concert series comes to the Riverbend Stage in Sliter Memorial Park next to the historic steel bridge every Sunday evening from June 23 to Aug. 25. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Cost is $5 for adults $5 and free for kids under 13. A season pass is available. Info: riverbendconcertsbigfork.com, 406-837-5888.
TREK WITH A LLAMA
Swan Mountain Llama Trekking nased 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. Rates start at $50 for an intro clinic and $245 for a whole day. Info: www.llamatreksmontana.com.
VISIT BIGFORK SUMMER PLAYHOUSE
The Bigfork Summer Playhouse is celebrating its 60th season of live professional theater this summer, “The Totally Radical 80’s Revue,” “Oklahoma!” “Seussical-the Musical,” “Catch Me If You Can,” “The Wedding Singer” and “The HITS of the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s.” Regular ticket prices are $32 for adults, $27 for seniors, $25 for U.S. military and $19 for children (10 & under). The playhouse has also teamed with Grille 459 or Bigfork Inn to offer dinner and show packages, so make a night of it. Info: bigforksummerplayhouse.com.
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KALISPELL AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
291 MILES • 5 HOUR 14 MINUTES Thirty minutes west of Glacier National Park and 15 minutes north of Flathead Lake is Kalispell, Montana’s seventh largest city. The community is home to about 22,000 residents, including more than 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.
TOUR 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., Tuesday-Sunday, through Oct. 15. Cost is $17 for adults, $15 for seniors, $10 for students 12-17 and $8 for kids 11 and under. Info: www.conradmansion.com.
VISIT 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, take in Richard Buswell: What They Left Behind through June 22 and Going to the Sun: Plein Air Painters of America Paint Glacier National Park through Aug. 3. The museum is open Tuesday-Saturday. Info: www.hockadaymuseum.org.
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 $5 for adults and $4 for seniors. Kids are free. Info: www.yourmuseum.org.
HIT THE TRAIL 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.
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GLACIER NATIONAL PARK DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
297 MILES • 5 HOUR 10 MINUTES Glacier National Park features pristine forests, alpine meadows, spectacular lakes and rugged mountains. Located on the United States-Canada 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.
DRIVE GOING TO THE SUN ROAD
Reaching an elevation of 6,646 feet at Logan Pass, Going-to-the Sun Road offers stunning vistas of some of the park’s glaciers, valleys and waterfalls. It’s a can’t miss sight 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. There’s a free shuttle service if you don’t want to drive, or take a tour in a historic red bus. Info: http://www.glaciernationalparklodges.com/red-bus-tours. Info: www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/goingtothesunroad.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
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WHITEFISH AREA DISTANCE FROM BOZEMAN
307 MILES • 5 HOUR 33 MINUTES Called “an island of commerce and culture, surrounded by an ocean of mountain recreation,” Whitefish is 17 miles north of Kalispell. It too offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, boating cycling, great dining, shopping and more. Info: www.explorewhitefish.com.
WALK THE SHORES OF WHITEFISH LAKE
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: stateparks.mt.gov/whitefish-lake.
FIND SUMMER FUN AT WHITEFISH MOUNTAIN RESORT
In summer, this popular ski destination opens 30 miles of downhill and cross-country mountain bike trails, a scenic lift ride and the Summit Nature Center. Daring visitors head straight for the elevated Aerial Adventure Park, with five above-ground courses featuring suspended bridges, 60 obstacles, trapeze and a zipline. Info: skiwhitefish.com.
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ENJOY 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 the “Outside The Box Free Play Reading Series,” “The Hound of the Baskervilles” and a Broadway Concert Series. 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 “I Hate Hamlet” and “Boeing, Boeing.” Info: www.whitefishtheatreco.org.
CELEBRATE THE HUCKLEBERRY
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.