2017 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 SO
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Bringing Shakespeare to Montana For more than four decades, MSU’s Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has hit the road each summer to bring quality live productions of Shakespeare and other theatrical classics to the people of Montana, especially in small, out-of-the-way communities. The productions are free, but the actors do pass the hat. Donations support a vibrant theater program offered in over 100 schools each year since 1993. The 10-person acting troupe presents either of two plays in 76 performances in 61 towns. For 2017, the Shakespeare production is “Macbeth,” the tragic story of a power couple driven mad by ambition and the chaos that ensues for the people and the countryside. The comedic offering is George Bernard Shaw’s “You Never Can Tell,” about a bright, slightly dysfunctional family at a seaside resort around 1900. “Our success has always been driven by the specific goals of connecting and engaging our audiences,” said Executive Artistic Director Kevin Asselin. “It’s the individuals and their families and their neighbors that keep us buoyant – that keep the mission alive. It sounds cheesy to say, but every season is dedicated to our audience.” Check www.shakespeareintheparks.org for times and locations.
JUNE
14-17: Bozeman. Macbeth. 17-24: Bozeman. You Never Can Tell. 26: Hobson/Utica. Macbeth. 27: Lewistown. You Never Can Tell. 28: Conrad. You Never Can Tell. 29: Malta. Macbeth 30: Wolf Point. You Never Can Tell.
JULY
1: Sidney. Macbeth. 2: Ekalaka. You Never Can Tell. 3: Miles City. Macbeth. 6: Colstrip. You Never Can Tell. 7: Birney. You Never Can Tell. 8: Hardin. Macbeth. 9: Columbus. You Never Can Tell. 10: Absarokee. Macbeth. 11: Red Lodge. Macbeth. 12: Roundup. You Never Can Tell. 13: Glendive: Macbeth. 14: Forsyth: Macbeth. 20: Billings. You Never Can Tell. 21: Billings. Macbeth. 22: Silver Gate/Cooke City. You Never Can Tell. 23: Big Timber. You Never Can Tell. 24: Dillon. Macbeth. 29: West Yellowstone. Macbeth. 30: Townsend. You Never Can Tell. 31: Laurel. Macbeth.
AUGUST
1: Chico Hot Springs. You Never Can Tell. 2: Boulder. Macbeth.
3: Fort Benton. You Never Can Tell. 4: Bozeman, Sweet Pea Festival (admission charged). Macbeth. 6: Bozeman, Sweet Pea Festival (admission charged). You Never Can Tell. 7: Helena. Macbeth. 8: Helena. You Never Can Tell. 9: Choteau. Macbeth. 11: Deer Lodge. You Never Can Tell. 12: St. Ignatius. Macbeth. 13: Charlo. You Never Can Tell. 14: Anaconda. Macbeth. 15: Hamilton. Macbeth. 16: Superior. You Never Can Tell. 17: Plains. Macbeth. 18: Trout Creek. You Never Can Tell. 21: Libby. Macbeth. 22: Eureka: Macbeth. 24: Seeley Lake. Macbeth. 25: Cut Bank. You Never Can Tell. 26: Great Falls. You Never Can Tell. 27: Great Falls. Macbeth. 28: Whitehall. You Never Can Tell. 29: Butte. Macbeth. 30: Manhattan. Macbeth. 31: Bozeman. Family/Grad Housing. You Never Can Tell.
SEPTEMBER 1: 2: 3. 4: 5:
Big Sky. Macbeth. Livingston. You Never Can Tell. Belgrade. You Never Can Tell. Missoula. Macbeth. Missoula. You Never Can Tell.
SUMMER HAPPENINGS If you want your Day Trip to include an event, here’s a list of some of this summer’s events around Montana. For more event ideas, check out visitmt.com/things-to-do/events.html
JUNE EVENTS 9-11:
Great Falls, Wings Across the Big Sky Montana Audubon Bird Festival. Field trips, guest speakers. Mtaudubon.org/ birding/montana-bird-festival.
16-18:
Great Falls, Lewis & Clark Festival. Native American dancers, Lewis and Clark fun, Children’s Discovery Area, bluegrass music. www.lewisandclarkfoundation.org.
22-24:
Red Lodge. Second Annual Songwriter Festival. Welcoming songwriters from Montana, Wyoming, Nashville to perform. Redlodgesongwriterfest.com.
22-24:
Hardin, Little Big Horn Days. Parade, rodeo, street dance, children’s activities. www.thehardinchamber.com.
23-25:
Garryowen, 26th Annual Battle of the Little Bighorn Re-enactment. Presented by the Red Bird Family. Littlebighornreenactment.com.
JULY EVENTS 2-4:
6-8:
Livingston, Festival of the Arts & Roundup. Parade, arts fest, food, rodeo, fireworks. www.livingstondepot.org and Livingstonroundup.com. Wolf Point, Wild Horse Stampede. Carnival, parade, wild horse race, rodeo. www.wolfpointchamber.com.
7-9:
Butte, Montana Folk Festival. Performances, entertainment, food courts, marketplaces. Montanafolkfestival. com.
7-9:
Kalispell, Artists & Craftsmen of the Flathead Summer Show. Artistsandcraftsmen.org.
13-15:
Seeley Lake, Bob Marshall Wilderness Music Festival. Lots of bands, beer garden, farmer’s market, food vendors, camping, hikes, races. www.thebobmusic. com.
15-16:
Dillon, Bannack Days at Bannack State Park. Wagon rides, gold-panning, pioneer craft demonstrations, old-time dancing, family fun. Bannack.org.
18-24:
Bozeman, Gallatin County Fair. www.406statefair.com.
21-23:
Virginia City, Bozeman Trail Commemorative Chuck Wagon Cookoff. A re-enactment of wagon train life in 1860s Montana Territory. www. virginiacitypreservationalliance.org.
27-29:
Butte, Evel Knievel Days. Stunts, daredevils, rides, music. www. evelknieveldays.org.
27-30:
White Sulphur Springs, Red Ants Pants Music Festival. The Bellamy Brothers, Lucinda Williams, Asleep at the Wheel, Shooter Jennings & Waymore’s Outlaws. Redantspantsmusicfestival.com.
28-30:
Philipsburg, Flint Creek Days. Parade, kids carnival, street dance, car show. Philipsburgmt.com.
28-Aug. 5: Great Falls, Montana State Fair. Headliners: Old Dominion, Brett Eldredge. goexpopark.com/montana-state-fair.
SUMMER HAPPENINGS CONTINUED ON PAGE 77
Because You Have a Variety of Interests . . .
CELEBRATING 10 YEARS...
We Have a Variety of Events
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ACTIVITIES BY AREA | SUMMER DAYTRIPPER 2017 BOZEMAN B ELGRADE M A N HATTAN T H R E E F ORKS LI V I NGS TON B I G TIM BE R B I G S KY W EST Y E L L OWSTON E EN N I S V I R G INIA CITY, N E VADA CI T Y G A R DINE R YELLOWS TONE N AT I ON AL PARK W H I T E S UL PHUR S PRI N GS LEW I S TOWN BUTTE M I SSOUL A 6
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All photos by Bozeman Daily Chronicle staff unless otherwise noted; Adrian Sanchez-Gonalez, Mike Greener, Sean Sperry, Ben Pierce, Thomas Lee, Erik Petersen, Nick Wolcott, Matt Green and Martha Koscinski. Cover design & Layout: Matthew Gasbarre. Editor: Lisa Reuter
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BOZEMAN AREA
There’s always something to do in Bozeman in summer. 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, dine in one of the city’s many great restaurants, or sit down for a cold one with friends and family at a local microbrewery. If the weather’s less than fair, explore a museum. The city has four great ones.
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For a weekly schedule of local events, pick up a copy of the Chronicle’s Get Out! section, published each Friday. For touring details, visit the Bozeman Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.bozemancvb.com, or the Bozeman Area Chamber of Commerce at www.bozemanchamber.com.
ACTIVITIES »
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TA K E A H I K E
Hiking opportunities abound. One local favorite is the M Trail on Baldy Mountain. 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. Another destination is Hyalite Canyon, with trails to lakes, streams, waterfalls and high peaks. Info: www.greater-yellowstone.com/Bozeman-MT/Hyalite-Canyon.html.
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June 9: 9:30 a.m. kids birding walk with Montana Outdoor Science School June 15: 5:30 p.m. Bozeman Sculpture Park tour with Gallatin Art Crossing June 20: 5:30 p.m. hike with a plant sciences professor June 21: 6 p.m. Solstice stroll with the Native Plant Society June 22: 6 p.m. fitness walk June 24:10 a.m. Vamanos a Caminar! En Espanol! June 29: 5:30 p.m. nature journaling walk Info: www.gvlt.org/events/discovery-walks.
HIKE WITH GVLT
For a guided trail walk, join one of the Gallatin Valley Land Trust’s 15-plus hourlong Discovery Walks in June, many for families and many incorporating special interests. The local organization has conserved area open spaces and scores of miles of trails since 1990. Options include: June 6: 5:30 p.m. walk with a naturopath doctor, with healthy living tips
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CHECK OU T HIK E W IL D M O N TA N A .O R G
The website of the 59-year-old Montana Wilderness Association, created with money from the Montana Office of Tourism, is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow when it comes to hiking Montana. www.HikeWildMontana.org is an interactive guide to more than 225 hikes statewide, many in Southwest Montana. Each listing comes with a picture,
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2017
Aug 4th, 5th & 6th
hike description and trail specifics, including elevation gain, trailhead directions and accessibility for kids and dogs, plus area places to eat before or after hiking. The Join a Hike page lists the group’s organized hikes, scheduled across the state all summer and offering opportunities to meet new trail buddies.
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Got your SPF 40?
Spend a summer weekend in Bozeman celebrating Sweet Pea’s 40th Festival
SAVE 10 BUCKS Buy in Advance! Wristbands for Sale Online
6 and Younger Children (7-12) Adults (age 13+)
FREE $10 $20
(Full Weekend Pass) (Full Weekend Pass)
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S W EE T P E A F E S T I VA L
T URNS 4 0
AU G. 1- 6
Don’t miss this great celebration of the arts this year! In honor of its 40th anniversary, the Sweet Pea Festival will be more amazing than normal. A week full of events are planned including: Aug. 1 - Chalk on the Walk, 9:30 a.m., get chalk @ Jacob’s Crossing lobby Aug. 2 – Bite of Bozeman – 6 p.m., Main St. Enjoy the refreshments of more than 40 area restaurants & food vendors Aud. 3: Music on Main – 6:30 p.m. Aug. 5: Adult & Children’s Runs, Parade – In the Morning Aug. 4-6 Festival Weekend Enjoy three days of arts and crafts booths, food vendors; music, theater, dance & family performances; workshops; flower show; children’s activities. All in Lindley Park. Buy all-event wristband admission in advance at sweatpeafestival.org. Full schedule released around July 1. Info: SweetPeaFestival.org.
o N— FREE Events During Festival Week Art Show, Chalk on the Walk, Bite of Bozeman, Music on Main (in conjunction with Downtown Business Partners), Adult Run, Children’s Run & Parade
Enjoy These Festival Events in Lindley Park Theater, Workshops, Dance, Music, Children’s Activities, Craft Beer Garden 100+ Arts & Crafts Booths
Visit sweetpeafestival.org for details.
RID E A BIK E
Around Bozeman, the Gallatin Valley Bicycle Club supports numerous cycling-related community events throughout the year, including rides, races and tours for single adult, child and family riders. Membership is just $15 for an individual, $25 for a family. Info: gallatinvalleybicycleclub.org. To learn more about bikes, search sites.google.com/a/bozemanbikekitchen.org to learn about the Bozeman Bike Kitchen. This volunteer group rehabs donated bicycles for others and helps riders learn to fix their two-wheeled machines. They are open select hours Tuesdays through Thursdays and Saturdays in summer, at the corner of Industrial and Griffin drives.
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G O RUNNIN G
Runners of all abilities are invited to join the Big Sky Wind
Drinkers (winddrinkers.org) running club on its summer Fun Runs, starting at 6:30 p.m. each Wednesday night. Get-togethers are supportive, noncompetitive and fun. 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.
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RUN A R A C E
JULY 22 C R O S S C U T 25K & 15K T R A IL R A C E B O Z EM A N A U G. 5 S W EE T P E A F ES T I VA L 5K & 10K B O Z EM A N A U G. 12 ED A N A C K ER B R ID G ER R ID G E RUN B O Z EM A N
For a competitive high, visit winddrinkers.org or www.racemontana.com for details on some of the area’s summer races, including:
SEP T. 10 2017 B O Z EM A N M A R AT H O N, H A L F M A R AT H O N A N D R EL AY B O Z EM A N
JUNE 17 O L D G A B E 50K & 25K B O Z EM A N
SEP T. 16 J O HN C O LT ER RUN T HR EE F O R K S
JUNE 24 JIM B R ID G ER T R A IL RUN B O Z EM A N JUNE 25 P O N Y T R O T 2017 PONY JULY 1 B A N G TA IL D I V ID E 38K B O Z EM A N
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TA K E A WA L K IN G T OUR O F HIS T O RIC B O Z EM A N
Explore Bozeman’s history on foot with a self-guided walking tour. More than 40 local properties are listed on the National Historic Register; there are also nine historic districts. The Bozeman Convention and Visitors Bureau offers free down-
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loadable maps, at bozemancvb.com/activities/activity/tours, that guide you along Bozeman’s Main Street; down S. Tracy, Willson and Grand Avenues; or through Sunset Hills historic cemetery.
July 21-31, “Wetlands.” Northern Cheyenne artist Bently Spang presents “Modern Warrior Series: War Shirt #6,” a multi-screen video installation at Dry Creek School, Belgrade, paired with tours of nearby wetlands.
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Aug. 24-25, “Gabriel Canal.” Mary Ellen Strom presents a light and sound installation at the Gabriel Homestead on River Road, paired with tours of a nearby irrigation system.
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AT T END WAT ER W O RK S 2017
Learn more about the water cycle that sustains us all, and celebrate its connection to human history, culture and agriculture, through this multipart public art project featuring installations and performances throughout the Gallatin Valley. Mountain Time Arts, which presented FLOW at Story Mill last year, is back with a series of themed events that are free and open to all: June 16-30, “Upstream.” 12 regional artists, who have teamed with conservationists and scientists, present exciting new art works in a Main Street window exhibit in downtown Bozeman. June 23-24, “Spring Thirst.” Joanna Haigood & Zaccho Dance Theater of San Francisco present an aerial dance performance interpreting spring runoff at Bogert Pavilion.
Tours are free; the sign-ups and schedule are on the Mountain Time Arts website. Mountain Time Arts’ principals are Dede Taylor, Jim Madden and Mary Ellen Strom. Info: mountaintimearts.org/projects/waterworks-2017.
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GO GARAGE S A L IN G
To search for treasures at area garage sales all summer, check the Chronicle’s classifieds section both online and in the paper. www.bozemandailychronicle.com
WATERWORKS 2017
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D ON’ T F O R G E T C R A Z Y DAY S!
The biggest spring/summer sale of them all is Summer Crazy Days, when downtown businesses cut prices on select merchandise and sell it on the sidewalk. You’re sure to find five to 20 things you must have. Mark your calendars: The sale is July 21-22 this year, starting at 10 a.m.
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TA K E A S W IM
Bogert Pool, 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 June 11; the pool closes Aug. 23. Call 406-582-0806. The indoor Bozeman Swim Center, 1211 W. Main St., features classes, lessons, lap and recreational swims. Call 406-5822294. Daily admission to city pools is $4 for 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.
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S O A K IN A HO T S P RIN G
Take a day to relax and enjoy one of these nearby hot springs: B O Z EM A N H O T S P R IN G S Near Four Corners, just west of Bozeman, 81123 Gallatin Rd. Info: 406-586-6492, www.bozemanhotsprings.co.
N O R R IS H O T S P R IN G S If you’d like music with your soak, head west to Norris Hot Springs, which features live music on weekends. Info: 406685-3303, www.norrishotsprings.com.
C HI C O H O T S P R IN G S Paradise Valley’s Chico Hot Springs has live music on weekends, a range of overnight accommodations, dining and a spa. Info: 406-333-4933, www.chicohotsprings.com.
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R A F T A RI V ER
Summertime and the rafting is . . . easy or wild, half day or full, you pick. Big Sky companies offering guided adventure on the Gallatin River are: Montana Whitewater Raft Co. & Ziplining, 406-763-4465, montanawhitewater.com. Geyser Whitewater, 406-356-5107, raftmontana.com.
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JUMP IN A LAKE
Lakes around Bozeman include:
FA IR Y L A K E
22.5 miles north of Bozeman on MT 86, 5 miles west on Fairy Lake Road. Campground info: 406-522-2520
H YA L I T E R ESER V O IR
206-acre reservoir 12 miles
BOZEMAN
children’s museum & STEAMlab visit us for the
BEST SUMMER EVER!
CMB
open 10-5 monday-saturday hands-on fun for the whole family! camps & classes, too 202 S. Willson Ave | Bozeman 406.522.9082 | cmbozeman.org Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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south of Bozeman. Info: www.fs.usda.gov/main/ custergallatin/home
For a great lunch on your outdoor adventure, order it in advance from Un-knotted, 708 N. Rouse. You can call the day before, order one of the restaurant’s great On the Fly lunches – the Turkey Club, Classic Sub and Caprese Salad sandwiches rock – and pick it up early on your way out of town. Info: Un-knotted.com.
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R A P T O R C EN T ER E X PA ND S P UBL I C P R O G R A MMIN G
Normally closed to the public except for their single August Family Fun Day, the Montana Raptor Conservation Center, is opening its doors nearly every Sunday this summer, so people can learn more about its birds. The Bozeman center, at 161 Bent Wing Rd., is opening its new educational amphitheater. To celebrate, they are inviting the public out on Sunday afternoons June 18-Aug. 27 (not July 2) for an hourlong program from 3-4 p.m. Topics for the education series will be:
JUNE 18 – M O N TA N A R A P T O R S JUNE 25 – M O N TA N A R A P T O R S N O TA L K SUN D AY JULY 2 JULY 9 – C O N SER VAT I O N JULY 16 – H AW K S JULY 23 – FA L C O N S JULY 30 – EC O SY S T EM TA L K S: R I V ER A U G US T 6 – ECOSYSTEM TALKS: PRAIRIE A U G US T 13 – FA MILY F UN D AY A U G US T 20 – O W L S A U G US T 27 – MI G R AT I O N Family Fun Day, a popular annual event with kids activities, food and fun, will be noon to 4 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 13. Info: montanaraptor.org, 406-585-1211.
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S E T UP C A MP
Looking to get away to a National Forest this weekend? Here are some campground options around Bozeman:
B AT T L E R ID G E C A M P G R O UN D
22 miles northeast of Bozeman along Highway 86 Info: 406-522-2520
B E A R C A N YO N C A M P G R O UN D 3 miles east of Bozeman, just off Interstate 90 Info: 800-438-1575
C HISH O L M C A M P G R O UN D 18 miles south of Bozeman on Hyalite Canyon Road Info: 877-646-1012
FA IR Y L A K E C A M P G R O UN D
22 miles north of Bozeman on Highway 86, then 5 miles west on Fairy Lake Road Info: 406-522-2520
A 40 Years! A Montana MontanaTradition Traditionfor Since 1976 Take-ouT deli & GifT Shop feaTurinG our homemade meaTS, SaladS, deSSerTS & SoupS Buffalo, Beef & Elk Sausage • Snack Sticks Jerky • Bratwurst • Bacon • Beer and Wine Huckleberr y Favor ites a n d M o n ta n a T h e m e d G i f t B oxe s !
G O BIRD WAT CHIN G
See how many unique bird species you can count. The Montana Audubon Society’s website maps birding “hot spots” into five regions. The Bozeman region includes the East Gallatin Recreation Area and the Sourdough Nature Trail, where you may glimpse a mountain chickadee, a red-breasted nuthatch or a western meadowlark. Info: mtaudubon.org, click on Birding. The website also includes the state bird list, as well as birding trip guides and information about birding groups.
>>> On thE Way tO thE airpOrt Open 7 days aa week – 7pm Open 7 days week////Mon Mon- Fri - Fri6:30am 6am – 7pm Sat 8am - 7pm // Sunday 9am - 5pm 406.388.4687 or 1.800.752.1029 6410 Jackrabbit Lane Belgrade // www.chaletmarket.com
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1616671
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SUNR ISE C A M P G R O UN D
31842 Frontage Road, Bozeman Info: 406-587-4797
For a list of campgrounds around the state, visit www.montanacampgrounds.net. Some require reservations.
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GIDDY UP!
sanctuary is also home to Bella, Sheena, Jake 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 $7 for adults, $6 for seniors 65 and older and $5 for children 4-12. Season passes are available. Info: www.grizzlyencounter.org, 406-586-8893.
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Offering guided daily horseback rides in the Bozeman area are:
KO KO P EL L I’ S T R AV EL S, 15150 Horse Creek Rd. 406-686-4475
MED I C INE L A K E O U T F I T T ER S, 346 Linney Spur Rd. 406-388-4938
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MEE T BRU T US T HE BE A R
Brutus, a male brown bear and star of National Geographic’s Expedition Wild, lives just outside of Bozeman at Montana Grizzly Encounter. The grizzly bear rescue and education
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PL AY AT T HE DINO S AUR P L AYG R OUND
Located at the Gallatin County Regional Park off Oak Street, the Dinosaur Playground features slides, swings, dino dig sandboxes, a rock climbing wall with safety surfacing, mazes and more. The playground was built by hundreds of volunteers in 2009.
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GO PA R A GL IDIN G
For a bird’s eye view of Gallatin Valley, check out Bozeman Paragliding, offering paragliding, paramotoring and speed flying services.
CARE WHERE YOU NEED IT 24/7 Emergency Care
Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital 915 Highland Boulevard | 406-414-1000 Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center 334 Town Center Avenue | 406-995-6995
Urgent Care
Bozeman 1006 West Main Street | 406-414-4800 Belgrade 206 Alaska Frontage Road | 406-414-3334 bozemanhealth.org/emergency-care
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Founded in 2002, the company 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. Info: bozemanparagliding.com, 406-581-2955.
MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY IS
TROUT U MSU leads the world in innovative fisheries research and education, and is ranked #1 among top fly-fishing colleges in the country.
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TA K E A HEL IC O P T ER RID E
If you prefer riding inside something when you take to the air, consider a chartered helicopter ride. Offering area tours that can 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 are:
C A R IS C H HEL I C O P T ER S, IN C.
www.mtheli.com, 406-579-5498
R O C K Y M O UN TA IN R O T O R S www.rockymountainrotors. net, 406-579-9312
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T ENNIS A N YONE?
Practice your serve at Bogert (2 courts) or Southside (3 courts) parks, or Bozeman High School’s Mike Anderson Courts (10). 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.facebook.com/BozemanTennisAssociation.
SHOP TROUT U GEAR — MSU BOOKSTORE TROUTU.ORG Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/MSUGearUp
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HONE YOUR S W IN G
Public golf courses in Bozeman are at Cottonwood Hills Golf Course, 8955 River Rd., and Bridger Creek Golf Course, 2710 McIlhattan Rd. Both offer lessons for all ages. Reach Bridger Creek at 406-586-2333 or www.bridgercreek.com. Reach Cottonwood at 406-587-1118 or www.cottonwoodhills.com.
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SERVE YOUR VOLLEYBALL ITCH
The Bozeman Volleyball League offers summer action out16
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doors and indoor play in winter. Visit their website, www. bozemanvolleyball.org, and Facebook page, www.facebook. com/groups/474236292595620.
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BOZEMAN PARKS & REC FOR ALL
Six climbing boulders are located around Bozeman: 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.
The city’s Parks and Recreation Department offers activities to keep every member of the family busy all summer, from swimming lessons to youth sports camps; sand volleyball for adults; Active Aging Programs and pickleball action for seniors – even standup paddle board yoga on June 21. Info: www.bozeman.net/parksandrec, 406-582-2290.
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GO B OUL D ERIN G
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GO ROCK CLIMBING INDOORS
Spire Climbing Center has a variety of routes and offers instruction at 13 Enterprise Blvd. 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.
LEARN TO PADDLE BOARD
Offering local standup paddle board rentals are Boys Toys, bigboystoysrentals.com; Round House Sports, www.roundhouse-sports.com; and Pink Cowboy Recreation Rentals, pinkcowboy.net.
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GO ROCK CLIMBING OUTDOORS
In business since 1885, Montana Alpine Guides offers a vari-
Montana Woolen S H Pure Wool … No Bull. o P
2017 Tour “It is live theater, Montana style. Not in the round, but on top of the world.” ~New York Times Shakespeare in the Parks is coming to a town near you. Bring a picnic, a blanket, your lawn chairs and enjoy professional theater under the Big Sky!
Filson® Woolrich® Pendleton® Smartwool®
• Sweaters • Gloves & Mittens • Shirts & Vests • Caps & Socks • Navajo Rugs • Fabric • Sheepskin Slippers
Free… Every Summer Find our tour schedule at shakespeareintheparks.org
And much more! ly Local d Owne
War +50º mth to -50
º
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OUTLET PRICES since 1975
www.shakespeareintheparks.org
8703 Huffine LLane Bozeman • 406-587-8903 www.montanawoolenshop.com Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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ety of rock climbing classes, plus guided experiences. Other guided adventures include ice climbing, mountaineering, backcountry skiing, avalanche education and backpacking trips all over. Info: www.mtalpine.com, 406-586-8430.
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PLAY ULTIMATE FRISBEE
The Bozeman Ultimate Frisbee Summer League begins play on June 5. Info: bozemanultimate.ultimatecentral.com.
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DISC GOLF
Disc golf is basically golf played with a Frisbee. See course reviews at dgcoursereview.com. Play locations around town include:
R O SE PA R K
12 holes, Bozeman
BOHART RANCH CROSS COUNTRY SKY CENTER
Two 18-hole courses, Bozeman www.bohartranchxcski.com
B AT T L E R ID G E
GallatinHistoryMuseum.org
18 holes, Bozeman
{ Lo c a t e d n ex t t o t h e Co u n t y Co u r t h o u s e }
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KICK IT!
Summer adult league kickball action begins June 27 at Beall Park. Info: www.overtimesportsbozeman.com/sport/Kickball. Check the site for details on playing kickball, flag football, dodgeball and cornhole too.
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The Gallatin Roller Girlz, 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. The Mountain Mayhem Team, the competition focused charter team, next plays June 17 against Hel’z Bells of Helena. There’s also a recreational team, the BoZone Brawlers. Info: grgderby.com.
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Hanging Gallows Former County Jail Native American Artifacts Photo Displays Bookstore Research Center
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317 West Main, Bozeman I 406.522.8122 18
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GO TO A ROLLER DERBY BOUT
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SLAM SUMMER FESTIVAL
SLAM (Support Local Artists & Musicians) showcases artists and performers from around the state during this family-friendly event. Info: slamfestivals.org or 406-219-7773. This years festival is Aug. 5-6 at Bogert Park.
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HIT THE COUNTY FAIR
Indulge in your favorite fair foods, experience the thrill of the carnival rides, and take in live entertainment including Ned Ledoux and Chad Prathern on Thursday, July 21, and Dylan Jakobsen and the Eli Young Band July 21. The Big Sky Country State Fair runs July 17-23, with daily competitions, diving DockDogs, Aussie Kingdom animal adventure, a family zone, the Kids Pedal Tractor Pull and a peek at MSU Library’s new Ivan Doig exhibit in Exhibit Building 1. Info: www.406statefair.com.
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GO TO A CONCERT
There are plenty of free summer concert opportunities in Bozeman. Two regular, recurring options are:
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MUSIC ON MAIN
FURNITURE
June 29-Aug. 18 Every Thursday Downtown Kids activities from 6:30-8 p.m. Live music from 7-8:30 p.m. Plus food vendors. Info: www.downtownbozeman.org
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Be Unique. Buy Antique!
LUNCH ON THE LAWN
Wednesdays July through mid-August, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the Emerson Cultural Center’s 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.
VINTAGE TOYS STERLING & COSTUME JEWELRY OLD ROCK RECORDS WESTERN ITEMS
1613776
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V I N TAG E H O M E D É C O R
DOWNTOWN ANTIQUES Locally Owned 37 years in Business
MC/ VISA/ AMEX/ DISCOVER
122 E. MAIN • DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN 586-0499 • 10:30-5:30 Monday–Saturday Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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SHOP A LOCAL FARMERS MARKET
Bozeman is home to two weekly farmers markets in summer: B O G ER T FA R MER S M A R K E T June 7-Sept. 27 Tuesdays from 5 to 7 p.m. at Bogert Park The market features a variety of vendors, food, entertainment and more. Info: bogertfarmersmarket.org
G A L L AT IN VA L L E Y FA R MER S M A R K E T
Mid-June-Mid-Sept. (No market during County Fair, July 23) Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon at Haynes Pavilion at Gallatin County Fairgrounds The market includes food, local produce, entertainment and multiple vendors. Info: www.gallatinvalleyfarmersmarket.com
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COOL CARS CRUISIN’ ON MAIN
Peruse more than a hundred vintage automobiles on display downtown Aug. 20 for the annual Cruisin’ on Main Car Show.
Experience.. .
MT Calcite
Fossils • Gemstone Jewelry • Wall of Bugs • Crystals
EarthsTreasuresMT.com 586-3451 • 25 N. Willson • Bozeman, MT
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Awards given out in more than 14 categories, including a People’s Choice Award and Best of Show. Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Info: www.downtownBozeman.org
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HAVE AN OLD FASHIONED SODA
The Chocolate Moose Candy & Soda Shoppe features an original “Bobtail” soda fountain from the 1940s. Offered are oldtime mixed Coca-Cola, root beer, Dr. Pepper and Sprite, plus ice cream sodas, root beer floats, brown cows, milkshakes, malts, sundaes and banana splits. The Chocolate Moose is at 140 E. Main St. Info: thechocolatemoosemt.com.
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VISIT A MUSEUM
Learn about the history of the area, computers, dinosaurs and more at: A MER I C A N C O M P U T ER & R O B O T I C S MUSEUM 2023 Stadium Dr. 406-582-1288 www.compustory.com
C HIL D R EN ’ S MUSEUM O F B O Z EM A N
The 14-stop Montana Dinosaur Trail meanders from Ekalaka in extreme eastern Montana to Bynum and Choteau in the northwest. Visitors can experience tours of ancient archaeological sites and field digs along the trail.
E A R T H’ S T R E A SUR ES
Info: mtdinotrail.org.
202 S. Willson Ave. 406-522-9087 www.cmbozeman.org
25 N. Willson Ave. 406-586-3451 www.earthstreasuresmt.com
G A L L AT IN HIS T O R Y MUSEUM 317 W. Main St. 406-522-8122 Gallatinhistorymuseum.org
MUSEUM O F T HE R O C K IES
600 W. Kagy Blvd. 406-994-2251 www.museumoftherockies.org
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WALK WITH DINOSAURS
Montana has a rich paleontological history, and 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.
While some of the stops on the trail are outside the daytrip range, Bozeman’s stop is easy to reach. The famed Museum of the Rockies on Kagy Boulevard is home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils, including the world’s largest Tyrannosaurus rex skull. The museum is open yearround. Summer hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through the day after Labor Day.
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TAKE 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 from June 10 through September. The walks are held from 6 to 8 p.m. Info: www. downtownbozeman.org.
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STAR IN A PLAY
Bozeman’s Kaleidoscope Youth Theater offers classes and camps for kids, plus performances. July 3-14, Red, White & Blue Revue, theater production camp for grades 1-3 & 4-8 July 17-18, Let’s Write Plays, for grades 4-12 July 19-Aug. 2 Renaissance Faire, theater production camp for grades 4-12 Aug. 3-4, Design & Crafting, half-day workshops for grades 4-12 Info: www.kytbozeman.org.
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VISIT A LOCAL BREWERY
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.
B O Z EM A N B R E W IN G C O M PA N Y 504 N. Broadway Ave. bozemanbrewing.com
B R ID G ER B R E W IN G C O M PA N Y 1609 S. 11th Ave. www.bridgerbrewing.com
BUNK H O USE B R E W ER Y
1216 W. Lincoln St. thebunkhousebrewery.com
4 06 B R E W IN G C O M PA N Y 101 E. Oak St. www.406brewing.com
M A D IS O N R I V ER B R E W IN G
20900 Frontage Rd., Bldg B, Belgrade www.madisonriverbrewing.com
M A P B R E W IN G C O. 510 Manley Rd. MAPbrewing.com
O U T L AW B R E W IN G
2876 N 27th Ave. www.outlaw-brewing.com
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W HI T E D O G B R E W IN G
121 W. Main St. www.whitedogbrewing.com
L O NE P E A K B R E W ER Y & TA P H O USE 48 Market Place, Big Sky www.lonepeakbrewery.com
B EEHI V E B A SIN B R E W ER Y
245 Town Center Ave., Big Sky www.beehivebasinbrewery.com
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CHASE IT WITH WHISKEY
Whiskey like your granddad made it – though surely better – is one of Montana’s newest hand-crafted products, along with distilled vodka, gin, brandy, rum, moonshine and various liqueurs. Many of the distilleries offer shops and tasting rooms. (State limit is 2 ounces a person a day). The first to open, in 2009, was RoughStock Whiskey, at 81211 Gallatin Rd., south of Four Corners. Info: www.montanawhiskey.com.
T HR EE O T HER S A R E: B O Z EM A N S P IR I T S D IS T IL L ER Y
121 W. Main St., produces vodka in flavors, gin, spiced rum and whiskey and serves assorted cocktails, Info: www. bozemanspirits.com, 406-577-2155.
W IL D R Y E D IS T IL L IN G
101 E. Oak St., produces vodka, gin, dark rum and whiskey. Info: www. wildryedistilling.com, 406-790-1216.
D R Y HIL L S D IS T IL L ER Y
106 Village Center Lane, produces vodka, gin and whiskey. Info: www. dryhillsdistillery.com, 406-624-6713.
O T HER M O N TA N A D IS T IL L ER IES IN C L U D E: BIGFORK
Whistling Andy www.whistlingandy.com
B IL L IN G S
Spirit of Montana Distilling spiritofmontana.com Trailhead Spirits www.trailheadspirits.com
BU T T E
Headframe Spirits www.headframespirits.com
C O R A M/ W ES T G L A C IER Glacier Distilling glacierdistilling.com
ENNIS
Willie’s Distillery Williesdistillery.com
HEL EN A
Triple Divide Spirits www.tripledividespirits.com
P O T O M A C (3 0 M I N U T E S F R O M M I S S O U L A ) Steel Toe Distillery www.steeltoedistillery.com
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VISIT A CIDERY
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 call 406-580-9098.
RAFTING
ZIPLINING & TUBING Locations in Gardiner, Big Sky and Bozeman • Learn to Fly Fish Lessons • Madison River Tubing Shuttles & Rentals • Discounted Packages Available
406.763.4465 montanawhitewater.com
madisonrivertubing.com yellowstonezip.com Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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BELGRADE AREA Distance from Bozeman: 11 miles
A town of 8,000 people, Belgrade was established in 1881. It is home to the 2015 Best Small Library in America. It was named for the capital of Serbia, as a thank you to the Serbian investors who helped finance the Northern Pacific Railroad line. Belgrade sports many good dinner spots, including the Mint Café & Bar, Damascos and MacKenzie River Pizza. For lunch on the go stop by Chalet Market, 6410 Jackrabbit Ln., cele-
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brating 40 years of making great lunches for your daytime adventures; 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.
ACTIVITIES »
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SPLASH AND SKATE
The Splash Park is the place to take the family on a hot day. It’s at Lewis and Clark Park, 205 E. Main St., which also includes playground equipment, picnic tables, tennis courts, soccer fields and a new and very popular skate park. Info: www. ci.belgrade.mt.us.
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GO HORSEBACK RIDING
Bridger Outfitters, at 14326 Rocky Mountain Rd., offers day rides and other Montana outdoor adventures including an 1880s-style chuckwagon cookout, cattle drives, fly fishing trips, fall hunts and more. Info: bridgeroutfitters.com.
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VISIT A GOAT DAIRY
In business since 2000, family run Amaltheia Organic Dairy has a herd of more than 250 goats on the farm, at the base of the Bridgers, 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.
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TAKE IN A BASEBALL GAME
Belgrade is home to the American Legion 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.
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SHOP AT THE FARMERS MARKET
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CELEBRATE FALL
The annual Belgrade Fall Festival, and its parade and car show, is Sept. 16 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.
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SPEND A NIGHT AT 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 – 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. O T HER S P EED WAY S A R O UN D T HE S TAT E IN C L U D E:
B M P S P EED WAY, B IL L IN G S www.bmpspeedway.com
EL EC T R I C C I T Y S P EED WAY, G R E AT FA L L S
http://www.electriccityspeedway.com
L E W IS T O W N D R A G R A C IN G, L E W IS T O W N
http://www.lewistowndragracing.com/
L O S T C R EEK R A C E WAY, A N A C O N D A http://www.lostcreek-raceway.com/
MIS SI O N VA L L E Y S P EED WAY, PA B L O www.missionvalleyraceway.com
M O N TA N A R A C E WAY PA R K , K A L IS P EL L www.montanaracewaypark.com
Y EL L O W S T O NE D R A G S T R IP/ IN T ER M O UN TA IN M O T O R S P O R T S, A C T O N
www.yellowstonedragstrip.com
Featuring Montana-grown vegetables, baked goods, crafts, entertainment and more, the Farmers Market will be held from 5-8 p.m. Thursdays, June 22-Aug. 24, at Lewis and Clark Park, 205. E. Main St.
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M A NH AT TA N A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 20 miles
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 the well-known Garden Cafe. Manhattan bills itself as a small town with lots of access to the outdoors. Walk through town and 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, 406-284-4162, www.manhattanareachamber.com.
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CELEBRATE SPUDS
Manhattan hosts the annual Potato Festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Aug. 19 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 includes a parade down Main Street at 11 a.m., live music at the Gazebo, a car show and vendors. Info: www. manhattanareachamber.com.
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SPEND TIME AT THE FARMERS MARKET
Held every Wednesday, June 28-Aug. 9, from 4 to 7 p.m., the Manhattan Farmers Market features fresh vegetables, baked goods, arts and crafts, eggs and more. It’s at Railroad Park, at Main and Broadway streets.
T HREE F O RK S A RE A
The place to stay and dine is the historic Sacajawea Hotel, where the downstairs bar/restaurant has food as good as they serve Wednesday through Sunday evenings in the acclaimed Pompey’s Grill upstairs (reservations recommended upstairs). The hotel was built in 1910 by John Q. Adams, the Milwaukee Railroad purchasing agent who founded Three Forks two years before. In 2009, the Folkvord family purchased, refurbished and reopened the hotel, now one of the Historic Hotels of America and a popular wedding site. Info: sacajaweahotel. com. Info on the city: www.threeforksmontana.com. Almost every summer weekend, there’s an activity or event from music to rodeo to a classic car show and the state’s only air race. The Farmers Market, with family activities, is 4-7 p.m. Thursdays July 6-Sept. 14, next to the Visitors Center, a Milwaukee Railroad caboose located in Milwaukee Railroad Park.
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This three-day festival, the state’s largest country jam, is June 15-17. Performing at the Bridge this year are headliners Chris Young, Randy Houser and Frankie Ballard, with Neil McCoy, Lonestar, Steve Moakler, Morgan Myles, Tim Montana and the Shreadnecks, and the Cold Hard Cash Show. Info: www. headwaterscountryjam.com.
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ROCK OUT AT ROCKIN’ THE RIVERS
Two months later, rock bands take over the space. This year’s festival, Aug. 11-13, features Slaughter, Alterbridge, Night Range, Black Stone Cherry, Lit, Hell’s Belles and more. www. rockintherivers.com.
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Distance from Bozeman: 31 miles
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. The explorers’ guide, Sacajawea, is honored with a statue in a park off Main Street.
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HEAD TO THE HEADWATERS COUNTRY JAM
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TRY CLAY TARGET SHOOTING
Gallatin Sporting Clays has courses, events, a youth program and more. www.gallatinclays.org.
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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, is open daily; www.tfhistory.org.
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SEE AN AIRSHOW
This summer’s Montana Antique Aircraft Association Fly-In is Aug. 4-5. Hundreds of antique aircraft buzz the skies and park at Pogreba Field. Activities include rides for kids, a breakfast and a dance.
T HREE PA RK S NE A R T HREE F O RK S
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LEWIS AND CLARK 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.
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MISSOURI HEADWATERS STATE PARK
See where the three rivers form the Missouri, hike, bike, picnic, fish and explore Montana history here. www.stateparks. mt.gov/missouri-headwaters. At 7 p.m., Saturday, June 17, learn about the Crow People when Franco LittleLight presents Songs of the Dawn Priests.
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MADISON BUFFALO JUMP STATE PARK
This park preserves a high cliff on the Madison River where Native Americans harvested bison for more than 2,000 years. It’s a great place to hike, watch birds and picnic. stateparks. mt.gov/madison-buffalo-jump.
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D I S C O V E R
LIVINGSTON M O N T A N A
YELLOWSTONE PIONEER LODGE
“The Best in Western Hospitality”
1617136
Conference, Banquet and Meeting Facilities Indoor Heated Garage Available Hot Breakfast Buffet • Heated Indoor Pool
Bar.Grill
STEAKS // SPIRITS // GOOD TIMES // HAPPY HOUR 4-6PM DAILY 1515 WEST PARK STREET • LIVINGSTON, MT • (406) 222-6110 • WWW.YELLOWSTONEPIONEERLODGE.COM
1617156
Guns–Ammo–Camping–Fishing–Archery Clothing–Gifts–Candy and Much More! 1106 W. Park Street, Ste. 22 Livingston, MT 59047 • (406) 222–5185
1618930
Livingston’s Only Full Service Sporting Goods Store
Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily
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LIVINGSTON AREA Distance from Bozeman: 26 miles
The architecture of downtown Livingston reveals old bones: Solid brick storefronts and saloons and the historic depot of the Northern Pacific Railroad. Today, those old buildings house a dozen art galleries, great one-of-a-kind shops (cowboy gear, antiques, gifts, custom watches, jewelry, Western wear, modern kitchenware), two community theater venues, three great bookstores and three intriguing museums, plus a half dozen really good restaurants. Modern Livingston is an arts hub and a great place for daytripping and nighttime activities alike.
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ENJOY THE RIVER
That would be the Yellowstone, a world-class fly fishing stream that flows north through town. Livingston proper is home to several angler establishments (Dan Bailey, George Anderson’s Yellowstone Angler, Hatch Finders and Sweetwater), with another, Angler’s West, 20 miles upriver at Emigrant. The proprietors sell gear, whisper secret fishing hole names and set you up with guides. Or just drive down Hwy 89 S or East River Road and look for the access signs.
If your idea of watersports involves rafts and paddle boards, rent equipment from Rubber Ducky, off Hwy 89 S, 406-2223746, riverservices.com. In either case, pack snacks, drinks and sun protection.
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THREE DAYS GONE
The 53rd 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 parties in Big Timber and Reed Point. Show up to participate. This year’s dates are July 7-9.
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MUSIC FESTS
The big musical do in town is the Hoot, 4-10 p.m. on Aug. 3 this year, featuring headliner Jon Cleary and the Quebe Sisters. It’s food, fun and music on historic Main St. July 21, it’s family friendly Summerfest, featuring kids events beginning at 2 p.m. and bands, bands, bands starting at 4 at the Bandshell at Miles Park. The $5 a person charge is a community fundraiser.
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SHADES OF THE FIFTIES
At the end of the day, grab a cheeseburger and a milkshake at Mark’s In & Out Beefburgers, an original 1950s drive-in fast food shop that locals love. 801 W. Park St.
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The harmony between ingredients and taste is what sets Thai food apart from other Asian cuisines
TRY 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, plus a full menu of appetizers, salads, sandwiches and sushi. Info: www.neptunesbrewery.com.
Two Locations
STONERIDGE SQUARE 2051 W. Oak Street (406) 404-1766 DOWNTOWN BOZEMAN 140 E. Main Street (406) 404-1196 OPEN Mon–Thur 11–9 ∙ Fri 11–10 ∙ Sat 11–9 ∙ Sun 12–8 www.ricebozeman.com Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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VISIT THE MUSEUMS
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 Railroad. Open year-round. www.yellowstonegatewaymuseum.org. The Livingston Depot Center Museum, 200 W. Park St., preserves the majestic 1902 Italianate train depot. www.livingstondepot.org. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day. The International Federation of Fly Fishers Museum, 5237 Highway 89 S, showcases the culture and history of the sport through a collection of objects, art, books and framed flies. www.fedflyfishers.org. Open Monday-Friday year-round.
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SADDLE UP!
Mike Thompson and his family have been leading day rides in and around Yellowstone National Park, and multiday adventures that fill up fast, for more than 20 years. They’ve been written up in National Geographic Explorer and Men’s Health, 32
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and seen 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: www.yellowstonepacktrips.com.
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BUY A BOOK OR THREE
Great contemporary writers – Richard Brautigan, Jim Harrison, Doug Peacock, Thomas McGuane, Peter Bowen, William Hjortsberg, Tim Cahill and Christopher Paolini among them – have called or call the Livingston area home. So it’s not surprising that the town has three great bookstores. The center of the writing life in Livingston is Elk River Books, 120 N. Main St., where the owners, cousins and writers Marc Beaudin and Andrea Peacock, sell new, used and collectible books, host a fabulous visiting writers series spring through fall, and branched out last year to present a three-day writers workshop. Most readings are SRO. Info: www.elkriverbooks. com. Montana’s best collection of Western literature is at Sax & Fryer, 109 W. Callender St., where owner Jon Fryer stocks the store with all his favorites and the best authors of American
Western history, science, travelogues, literature and poetry, plus anthologies and children’s books. Conley’s Books and Music, in the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts, 415 E. Lewis St., holds a unique collection of books, music, musical instruments and kids’ books and toys. Info: conleysbooksandmusic.com.
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SEE A SHOW
Livingston community theater productions have been popular and noteworthy for more than 50 years thanks to the Blue Slipper Theatre, 113 E. Callender St., www.blueslipper.com. Musicals, plays, a great film series and more play at the Shane Lalani Center for the Arts, 415 E. Lewis St., www.theshanecenter.org. For a happy hour before the theater, stop in at Copper John’s Bar and Grill, in the Pioneer Lodge at 1515 W. Park S., where the discount celebration is 4-6 p.m. daily. Info: YellowstonePioneerLodge.com.
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MUSIC RANCH
Music Ranch, just south of Livingston on Hwy 89, fills Paradise Valley with country music all summer long. This year’s lineup includes Lacy J. Dalton July 22; Darryl Worley Aug.3, and Johnny Rodriguez Aug. 31. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. Purchase a seat in the barn or sit on the hillside. Info: www. musicranchmontana.net.
YELLOWSTONE PACK TRIPS
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SPEND AN EVENING AT THE ROUNDUP RODEO
One of the premier rodeos over the Fourth of July is Livingston’s PRCA Roundup Rodeo, held July 2-4, featuring big name rodeo stars, a parade July 2 and nightly fireworks. (Get tickets in advance.) During the day, visit the annual Festival of the Arts at the Depot Center, a fine arts and crafts 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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FAMILY FUN AT THE PARK COUNTY FAIR
That’s July 26-29, with a demolition derby July 30, at the Park County Fairgrounds, 46 View Vista Dr. Info: www. parkcounty.org.
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MINGLE WITH FRIENDS AT THE FARMERS MARKET
Livingston’s Farmers Market, at the Miles Band Shell Park, runs Wednesdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. through Sept. 20. The market features food, arts, crafts, music and local microbrews. Info: livingstonmontana.com.
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WALK LIKE AN ARTIST
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.
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BIG TIMBER AREA Distance from Bozeman: 60 miles
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. More info also at www.bigtimber-montana.com.
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VISIT MAIN BOULDER RANGER STATION
About 30 miles south of Big Timber off Rt. 298, this historic ranger station built in 1905 is now a museum, open 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday-Sunday, July-Labor Day. Info: www.fs.usda.gov/detail/custergallatin/specialplaces/?cid=stelprdb5127786, or call 406-222-1892.
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OBSERVE PRAIRIE DOGS
Grab your camera and head to Greycliff Prairie Dog Town State Park to observe black-tailed prairie dogs. Nine miles east of town along Interstate 90, the 98-acre park features interpretive displays and up to 40 dome-shaped prairie dog entrances per acre. Visit stateparks.mt.gov/greycliff-prairie-dog-town or call 406-445-2326 for details.
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GOLF OVERLAND
Beautifully nestled at the base of the Crazy Mountains, Overland Golf Course, 338 Big Timber Loop Rd., boasts senic 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 9-hole course, featuring different tees for your back 9, and water hazards that come into play on 8 of the 9 holes. It’s one of the state’s best and prettiest. See for yourself: www.overlandgolf.com.
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WATCH THE RUNNING OF THE SHEEP
Montana-bred woolies charge down the streets of Reed Point during the annual Great Montana Sheep Drive, set for Sept. 3 this year. The town is 25 miles east of Big Timber. Put on by the Reed Point Community Club, the drive features a parade, vendors, children’s rides, a petting zoo and evening street dance. Visit stillwatercountychamber.com/reed-point.
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Monday & Tuesday
Play all day
for $40.00 (includes carT)
Open tO the public
ENJOY MUSIC AND MORE AT SWEET GRASS FEST
Big Timber hosts its multi-event rodeo and Sweet Grass Fest June 23-24, starting with rodeo Friday night. Saturday events include the Fireman’s Breakfast at 7 a.m., kids events, vendor booths, a car and tractor show, parade and street concert, capped off with more rodeo action.
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THE HALFWAY POINT
Big Timber is the halfway point of the three-day Yellowstone River Boat Float, July 7-9 this year. That means you’ll see all manner of floating craft around town on July 8, and a concert by the Crazy Mountain Dulcimer Players, 7-9 p.m., too.
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(406)932-4297
www.Overlandgolf.com 1617700
VISIT THE CRAZY MOUNTAIN MUSEUM
The Crazy Mountain Museum highlights the events that shaped Sweet Grass County. Exhibits include a miniature re-creation of Big Timber in 1907, rodeo and sheep exhibits and a Pioneer Memorial Gallery, archive room and plant garden. The museum is open Memorial Day-Sept. 30, www.crazymountainmuseum.com.
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HIT THE COUNTY FAIR
Enjoy exhibits, entertainment, concessions and more at the Sweet Grass County Fair July 24-28. Details at www.bigtimber.com.
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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. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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FOLLOW YOUR FAVORITE
RODEO STARS
JUNE June 3-7 Lions Club Rodeo Conrad. Conradmt.com June 9-10 Culbertson Frontier Days Rodeo NRA/NWRA Culbertson. Rodeousa/com/ rodeos/Culbertson-frontier-days June 10-11 Poplar Rodeo NRA/NWRA Poplar. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/poplar-rodeo June 16-17 Gardiner Upper Yellowstone Roundup NRA Gardiner. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/gardiner-upperyellowstone-roundup June 17-18 Little Belt Cowboys PRCA Rodeo Belt. Beltrodeo.com June 17-18 Wilsall Rodeo NRA Wilsall. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/wilsall-rodeo June 20-22 NRSPA Darby Rodeo Darby. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/nrspa-darby-rodeo June 23-24 Big Timber Rodeo NRA Big Timber. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/big-timber-rodeo June 23-24 Mission Mountain Rodeo NRA Polson. Rodeousa.com/rodeos/ mission-mountain-rodeo
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June 24 Ft. Benton Summer Celebration & PRCA Rodeo Fort Benton. Fortbenton.com June 24-25 Little Big Horn Stampede PRCA Rodeo Hardin. www.facebook.com/ events/1286342234789690 June 25 American Legion PRCA Rodeo Augusta. Rodeosusa. com/rodeos/ augusta-american-legion-rodeo
JULY July 2-3 Harlowton Fourth of July Rodeo NRA Harlowton. Rodeousa. com/rodeos/ Harlowton-fourth-july-rodeo July 2-4 Livingston Roundup PRCA Rodeo Livingston. Livingstonroundup.com
July 6-8 Wild Horse Stampede PRCA Rodeo Wolf Point. www. wolfpointchamber.com July 9, Sunday 75th Annual Drummond PRCA Rodeo Drummond. www.facebook. com/drummondrodeo July 13-14 Bear Paw Roundup PRCA Rodeo Chinook. blainecountyfair.net July 14-16 East Helena Valley Rodeo NRA East Helena. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/east-helena-valley-rodeo July 14-15 Marias River Stampede PRCA Rodeo Shelby. Mariasfair.com July 14-15 Three Forks Rodeo NRA Three Forks. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/three-forks-rodeo
July 3-4 Ennis 4th of July Rodeo NRA Ennis. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/ennis-4th-july-rodeo
July 16 CM Russell Stampede PRCA Rodeo Stanford. Cmrstampede.com
July 4 Choteau American Legion Rodeo NRA Choteau. Rodeousa. com/rodeos/ choteau-american-legion-rodeo/
July 21-22 Tobacco Valley Rodeo NRA Eureka. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/tobacco-valley-rodeo
July 6-8 Home of Champions PRCA Rodeo Red Lodge. Redlodgerodeo.com
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July 26-27 Central Montana PRCA Rodeo Lewistown. Centralmontanafair.com
July 27-28 Sheridan Saddle Club PRCA Rodeo Plentywood. www.co.sheridan. mt.us/index.php/Fair/schedule
Aug. 10-12 Missoula Stampede PRCA Rodeo Missoula. Missoulafairgrounds.com
July 27-29 Last Chance Stampede PRCA Rodeo Helena. Lastchancestampede. com
Aug. 11-12 Cascade PRCA Rodeo Cascade. Rodeocascade.com
July 28-29 Big Sky Professional Bull Riders Rodeo Big Sky. www.bigskypbr.com July 31 Daniels County Fair Rodeo NRA/NWRA Scobey. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/daniels-county-fair-rodeo
AUGUST Aug. 2-5 Big Sky Roundup PRCA Rodeo Great Falls. Bigskyroundup.com Aug. 3-4 Richland County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Sidney. Richlandcountyfairandrodeo.com Aug.4-5 Kootenai River PRCA Rodeo Libby. Rodeosusa.com/ rodeos/kootenai-river-rodeo Aug. 4-5 Superior Lions Club Rodeo NRA Superior. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/superior-lions-club-rodeo Aug. 6-7 Northeast Montana Fair & PRCA Rodeo Glasgow. Northeastmontanafair.com Aug. 10-12 Bozeman Stampede PRCA Rodeo Bozeman. Bozemanstampede.com
Aug. 11-12 Madison County Rodeo NRA Twin Bridges. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/madison-county-rodeo Aug. 12 Dawson County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Glendive. Dawsonfair.com Aug. 17 McCone County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Circle. Circle-montana. com/m/events/view/ McCone-County-Fair-PRCA-Rodeo Aug. 17-19 Yellowstone River Roundup PRCA Rodeo Billings. Metrapark.com Aug. 17-19 Northwest Montana Fair & PRCA Rodeo Kalispell. Nwmfair.com Aug. 17-20 Fallon County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Baker. Falloncounty.net Aug. 18-19 Tri County Fair Rodeo NRA Deer Lodge. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/tri-county-fair-rodeo Aug. 22-23 Eastern Montana Fair & PRCA Rodeo Miles City. Milescitychamber. com/eastern-montana-fair Aug. 25-26 Flathead River Rodeo Indian National Finals Rodeo Polson. www. polsonfairgroundsinc.com
Aug. 26 Wibaux County Fair Rodeo NRA/NWRA Wibaux. Rodeousa. com/rodeos/ Wibaux-county-fair-rodeo Aug. 26-27 Jefferson County Rodeo NRA Boulder. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/Jefferson-county-rodeo Aug. 31-Sept. 2 Sanders County Fair & PRCA Rodeo Plains. Sanderscountyfair.com
SEPTEMBER Sept. 1-2 Ravalli County Fair Rodeo NRA Hamilton. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/Ravalli-county-fair-rodeo Sept.2-4 Dillon Jaycee PRCA Rodeo Dillon. Dillonjaycees.com Sept. 3-4 Helmville Labor Day Rodeo NRA Helmville. Rodeousa.com/ rodeos/helmville-labor-day-rodeo White Sulphur Springs Labor Day PRCA Rodeo White Sulphur Springs. Rodeosusa.com/rodeos/whitesulphur-springs-labor-day-rodeo Sept. 15-17 Copper Spring Ranch PRCA Pro Rodeo Bozeman. Copperspringranch.com
OCTOBER Oct. 5-7 NRA Finals Butte. www.northernrodeo.com Oct. 12-14 NILE PRCA Rodeo Billings. Thenile.org
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BIG SKY AREA Distance from Bozeman: 44 miles
CRAIL RANCH HOMESTEAD
Big Sky has more blue-ribbon trout streams and lakes in an 80-mile radius than anywhere else in North America. For fishing action, check in with Cache Creek Outfitters, Gallatin River Guides, Wild Trout Outfitters and East Slope Outdoors. Located south of Bozeman off Hwy 191, Big Sky has a yearround 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. Summer events include the Farmers Market every Wednesday through September, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fire Pit Park at the Town Center; the Gallatin River Fly Fishing Festival, July 1-2; a big July 4 party at Town Center; Brew Fest, July 22; Big Sky Professional Bull Riders Competition July 26-29; and a Vine & Dine fest for gourmands, with cooking demos, wine sales, lunches and more, Aug. 16-20. 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 38
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6.6-mile Beehive Basin, 6-mile Lava Lake and 5-mile Golden Trout Lake trails. Big Sky Resort has a full slate of summer activities including paintball, laser tag, scenic lift rides, ziplining, a high ropes course, climbing and more; www.bigskyresort.com. Also visit Big Sky Chamber of Commerce, 55 Lone Mountain Trail, bigskychamber.com.
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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 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.
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TAKE A FREE GUIDED HIKE
The Big Ski Community Organization offers a series of themed, guided area hikes in summer, from 10-11 a.m. on Tuesdays. Destinations include Ousel Falls, Uplands Trail, Little Willow Way and the Crail Ranch. The July 19 hike is all about wetlands; the July 26 hike helps kids become animal and plant detectives; the Aug. 30 hike offers info on outdoor portrait photography; and the Sept. 6 jaunt includes an intro to climbing. Info: bscomt.org/hike-learn.
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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 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 Hwy 191, associated with Montana Whitewater Rafting Co.., offers 2- or 3.5-hour Gallatin River tours. www.yellowstonezip.com.
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TRY DISC GOLF
Disc Golf fans can indulge at Big Sky Resort’s nine-hole beginner course off Ramcharger, or the intermediate/advanced 9-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.
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MUSIC IN THE MOUNTAINS
Thursday nights June 22-Aug. 31, the Arts Council of Big Sky presents concerts by national touring musicians at Center Stage in Town Center. They’re free. See the list at www.bigskyarts.org. The annual Classical Music Festival is at the same locale Aug. 11-13. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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WEST YELLOWSTONE AREA Distance from Bozeman: 86 miles
After a day in Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy strolling the streets of West Yellowstone. With several one-of-a-kind attractions, it’s a great place to escape to if the park is crowded. It’s a small town with great shopping and restaurants, 10 blocks by 10 blocks, making it a walking community. 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 folks a year. Info: www.destinationyellowstone.com. 40
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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 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.com.
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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 the latest feature films each night. Info: www.yellowstonegiantscreen.com.
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BRING YOUR 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 one. 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.
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SEE QUAKE LAKE
On Aug. 17, 1959, a massive earthquake struck the Madison Canyon River Area about 24 miles north of West Yellowstone. Eighty million tons of rock slid into the Madison River Canyon gorge, killing 28 people and blocking the river, forming six-mile-long Quake Lake. Today, it’s stocked with cutthroat and brown trout for anglers. The National Forest Service visitor center has great interpretive exhibits and films, and an informative walking trail. It’s open daily until 6 p.m. through Sept. 30. Info: https://www. fs.usda.gov/detail/custergallatin/specialplaces/?cid=stelprdb5127785
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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. They offer upscale tipis and tents, luxury linens and private
UP FOR AERIAL ADVENTURES?
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 multiday 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.
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COOL OFF AT HEBGEN LAKE
Located about 20 miles west of West Yellowstone, this 12,000acre 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. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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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 Sept. 3. Info: www. undercanvas.com.
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ATTEND SMOKING WATERS MOUNTAIN MAN RENDEZVOUS
See how the mountain men did things during the 12th annual Smoking Waters Mountain Man Rendezvous and 1800s Living History Encampment, held 9:30-5 p.m., Aug. 4-13 at the Old Airport. The event includes entertainment, demonstrations and seminars related to trades and crafts of the 1800s. Info: www.twoturtlestradingpost.com.
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CATCH THE RODEO
The Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo, 6.5 miles west of town on Hwy 20, offers the full rodeo experience, with 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. Wednesday-Saturday in June and July 1; Tuesday-Saturday in July and Aug. 1-12; and Wednesday-Saturday Aug. 16-26. Tickets are available in advance or at the gate. Info: www.yellowstonerodeo.com.
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HAVE AN OLD FASHIONED SODA
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.
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VISIT THE 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 stage coaches and freight wagons and stories of the early park visitors and Union Pacific Railroad staff. Info: www.yellowstonehistoriccenter.org.
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TAKE OFF FOR ISLAND PARK, IDAHO
Just 15 miles west of West, over the Targhee Pass, is Island Park, Idaho, a place of miles of dense pine forests and fishing streams, three lakes, beautiful resorts like Lakeside Lodge and The Pines at Island Park, 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 Hwy 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.
P I O N E E R FA M I LY B U S I N E S S - E S TA B L I S H E D I N 1 9 0 8
EAGLE’S STORE
1
$ Save
Soda Fountain Treats
off any fountain item $2 or more.
P I O N E E R FA M I LY B U S I N E S S - E S TA B L I S H E D I N 1 9 0 8
EAGLE’S STORE Must present Coupon.
Limit 6 fountain items. Redeemable at Eagle’s Store, West Yellowstone, Montana. One coupon per customer, per visit. Not valid with any other offer or coupon. No copies or facsimiles. No cash value.
Located at the corner of Canyon St &Yellowstone Ave Across the Street from theVisitor Center 406-646-9300 • www.eagles-store.com
Fun and Relaxation All Year Round at LAKESIDE LODGE
1618151
Live Music Every Weekend During the Summer! Cabins, Rooms, Luxury Cabin and RV Hookups
Bar/Restaurant Serving: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Summer/Winter Recreational Rentals
208-558-9770 • 3857 Lakeside Lodge Ln • Island Park, ID www.lakesidelodgeandresort.com Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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ENNIS AREA
Distance from Bozeman: 52 miles
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. Cool off at one of the town’s Western saloons, or Willie’s Distillery, 312 E. Main. 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 on to the confluence of the Missouri River; spring and fall are the seasons to fish here. Or drive to the nearby Big Hole and Beaverhead rivers to wade, float and fish. Lake fishing fans can try Hebgen, Quake, Ennis, Cliff or Wade lakes or Ruby Reservoir. Outfitters include Beartooth Fly Fishing, Trout Stalkers, 44
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Madison River Fishing and Hooked Outfitting. 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 and 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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SPEND YOUR FOURTH IN ENNIS
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. The NRA Rodeo is a big draw too, on July 3 and 4. rodeosusa.com/rodeos/ ennis-4th-july-rodeo.
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COOL OFF AT 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.
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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
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SPEND A NIGHT UNDER THE STARS
The Ennis area features a variety of opportunities for camping, including:
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MADISON RIVER 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: 406-682-4253.
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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.
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EXPLORE THE MADISON VALLEY HISTORY MUSEUM
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’s open from 1-4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, through mid-September. Visit madisonvalleyhistoryassociation.org.
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ATTEND AN EVENT
While the Moods of the Madison music festival isn’t running this year, other Ennis events include: The Shedhorn Sports Annual Tent Sale, June 22-25. July 15, the Air Fair, at the airport, a fun family event centered around aircraft & helicopters. Aug 12, the Annual Madison Valley Arts Festival, at Peter T’s Park. Sept. 1-2, the Ennis on the Madison Fly Fishing Festival, with clinics, exhibitors, angling art, kids events and more, at Peter T’s Park.
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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. Visit williesdistillery.com.
V IR GINI A CI T Y A ND NE VA DA CI T Y A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 66 miles
Pioneers made a fortune in gold in Virginia City in the 1860s, and now the area is frozen in time, a remarkably well-preserved Victorian gold mining town. View scores of historic buildings, complete with artifacts and furnishings. Ride the stagecoach, attend a live theater show, stay the night in homey historic lodging and shop the gift and specialty shops. 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. Call 406-843-5247. Virginia City Chamber of Commerce, 211 Wallace St., 406843-5555 or www.virginiacity.com.
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TAKE IN SOME LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
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continually operating professional summer theatre company in the Northwest. The company performs every day but Monday through Sept. 3. This season’s shows are “Sweeny Todd,” through June 25; “Robin Hood,” June 27-Aug. 6; and “Murder By Tea,” Aug. 8-Sept. 3. Info: www.virginiacityplayers.com. The Brewery Follies, meanwhile, offer daily live comedy, satire and nonsense, Memorial Day through September at the H.S. Gilbert Brewery. Shows are at 4 and 8 p.m. Info: www.breweryfollies.net.
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PARTICIPATE IN LIVING HISTORY EVENTS
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RIDE A TRAIN
The Alder Gulch Shortline Railroad connects Virginia City to Nevada City via a 25-minute scenic ride. The train departs throughout the day from the Virginia City Depot and the Bovey Visitor Center in Nevada City. Call 406-843-5247.
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OFFROAD IN A BIG RIG
Ride Colossus, an M823 military vehicle built in 1984, on a 7-mile off-road tour to the site of Virginia City’s big gold strike. Operated by Nelson Offroad Tours, the 6-wheeldrive machine is 12 feet tall and weighs 21,000 pounds. The roundtrip ride, departing Nevada City, covers 14 miles, and jostles up and down 4,000 feet. www.nelsonoffroad.com.
G A RDINER A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 78 miles
Throughout the summer, Virginia City features “A Step Back in Time” living history events, all providing a glimpse into area history. Visit www.virginiacitymt.com/events for a schedule.
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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. www.gardinerchamber.com.
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RAFT THE YELLOWSTONE
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TOUR YELLOWSTONE WITH A GUIDE
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 River Source Rafting, paddleyellowstone.com Wild West Rafting, www.wildwestrafting.com
The Gardiner Chamber of Commerce lists several guides offering wildlife and/or photography tours in the park, and most of the operators have been in business for a good long time, getting their start with either the National Park Service or Yellowstone Forever (formerly the Yellowstone Association and Yellowstone Park Foundation). 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.
Yellowstone Raft Co., yellowstoneraft.com.
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ENJOY AN EVENING AT THE RODEO
This year, Gardiner’s NRA Rodeo, the Upper Yellowstone Roundup, is at Jim Duffy Arena north of town at 6 p.m. June 16-17. Events include bareback bronc riding, bull riding, calf roping, cowgirls barrel racing and breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and team roping. Info: rodeosusa.com/rodeos/gardiner-upper-yellowstone-roundup.
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YELLOWSTONE FOREVER STORE
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.
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YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Distance from Bozeman: 78 miles
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. 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 offers multi-day small group courses and field seminars year-round that give people an insider’s look at the park. The organization’s single- and 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.
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ENJOY THE WATERS
Between Gardiner and the park headquarters at Mammoth is the famous Boiling River, where the Gardner River meets a 48
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large hot springs, 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.)
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DOING OLD FAITHFUL
About in the middle 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 about every 90 minutes. Most people stand in front of it, 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, 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. Figure you’ll need 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.
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YELLOWSTONE LAKE
Not far from Old Faithful, but in a totally different landscape, is Yellowstone Lake. 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.
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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.
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WILDLIFE VIEWING TIPS
Get up before dawn and go out after 7 p.m. for your best chance at sighting the big predators of Yellowstone. The Lamar and Hayden valleys are prime spots for looking. Carry binoculars and, if you’re going to hike, bear spray.
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OTHER VISITOR CENTERS
You’ll find trailheads, rangers, info – and often exhibits and/or dining options – near the following visitor centers:
A L B R I G H T V ISI T O R C EN T ER
At Mammoth Hot Springs 8 a.m.-7 p.m. through Sept. 30 9 a.m.-5 p.m. rest of the year
Great exhibits and a good bookstore. The best place for info on the Lamar Valley. Take a walking tour of Historic Fort Yellowstone before rushing off to the Hot Springs.
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C A N YO N V ISI T O R EDU C AT I O N C EN T ER 8 a.m.-8 p.m. through Sept. 4 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 5-30 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 1-9
Beyond the shopping and dining options at this location, visit the education center to see a film on the geology of the park, a room-size relief model of the park, a huge lava lamp, and a 9,000-pound rotating kugel ball that illustrates global volcanic hotspots.
F ISHIN G B R ID G E V ISI T O R C EN T ER & T R A IL SID E MUSEUM 8 a.m.-7 p.m. through Sept. 30 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 1-9
Exhibits on the park’s birds and other wildlife and the geology of Yellowstone Lake.
M A D IS O N IN F O R M AT I O N C EN T ER 9 a.m.-6 p.m. in summer
Site of the Junior Ranger Station
MUSEUM O F T HE N AT I O N A L PA R K R A N G ER
9 a.m.-5 p.m. through Sept. 24 One mile north of Norris, this interesting old ranger station explains the history and duties of rangers, and is staffed by retired rangers always happy to answer questions.
N O R R IS G E Y SER B A SIN
9 a.m.-6 p.m. through Sept. 30 Exhibits only 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 1-9
W ES T T HUMB IN F O R M AT I O N S TAT I O N G R A N T V ISI T O R C EN T ER
9 a.m.-5 p.m. through Oct. 5
8 a.m.-8 p.m. through Sept. 4 8 a.m.-6 p.m. until Sept. 30 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 1-9
Information on the fires of 1988.
LEWIS & CLARK C AV E R N S S TAT E PA R K
Guided Cave Tours
Offered Daily - May 1 to Sept. 30 Tickets: $12 - Adult (12 & older) $8 - Children under 12
Wild Cave Tours
(Call for details & times) Tickets: $30 - 12 & older
Explore one of the most colorful limestone caverns in the Northwest!
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Additional Amenities: • •
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Visitor Center Montana Gift Corral Shop & Deli Tent & RV Camping Cabin & Tipi Rentals Hiking Mountain Biking Wildlife Viewing Interpretive Programs & much, much more!
stateparks.mt.gov or 406-287-3541
Located 22 miles west of Three Forks on MT 2 or 18 miles east of Whitehall on MT 2
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WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS AREA Distance from Bozeman: 79 miles
Indians 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. Today, you can visit the natural hot springs for relaxation and health. Among the natural attractions are the mountains. 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, 4 reservoirs and 4 lakes, and hundreds of miles of miles of National Forest land and trails, greater Meagher County is a fine place to get away outdoors. White Sulphur Springs is where Ivan Doig, Montana’s favorite novelist, was born. Info: Meagherchamber.org.
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TAKE THE WATERS
The Spa Hot Springs Motel downtown is the place to soak in – or drink, some folks do – 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, they are are drained nightly. The chemistry of the waters reportedly rivals that of world-famous BadenBaden, Germany. Info: www.spahotsprings.com.
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ATTEND A CONCERT AT RED ANTS PANTS
A wildly popular festival put on by the women’s clothing company of the same name, the Red Ants Pants Music Festival is July 27-30 this year. Food and craft vendors and a kids tent Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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are part of the fun. This year’s lineup includes the Bellamy Brothers, Lucinda Williams, Asleep at the Wheel, Shooter Jennings and Waymore’s Outlaws, Turnpike Troubadours, Parker Milsap, James McMurtry, Mandolin Orange and Jeffery Foucault. One-day or three-day passes available. Details at redantspantsmusicfestival.com.
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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. Artists on exhibit in-
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VISIT THE CASTLE
Built in 1892 by Bryon Roger Sherman, the Castle Museum is now the home of the Meagher County Museum. The 12 rooms contain period furniture, mineral samples, clothing and artifacts. The carriage house holds a stagecoach, fire engines and mementos of the open range. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 15-Sept. 15. Visit centralmontana. com for details, or call 406-547-2324.
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clude Charles M. Russell and Henry Sharp and photographer Edward S. Curtis. The museum, at 2751 Hwy 294, is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Memorial Day through Labor Day, from 10 to 5 Wednesday to Sunday Labor Day through October. Info: bairfamilymuseum.org.
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PAN FOR GOLD
White Sulphur’s Gold Panning Adventures offers gold panning for novice and experienced prospectors by appointment. Instructors teach how to pan effectively and use the equipment, including sluice boxes, rockers and the Denver Gold Saver. Choose either 5-hour time slot: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 2 to 7 p.m. Once you’ve taken the course, you can pan all day if you like, and keep anything you find. It’s a remote, scenic spot; bring your own provisions. The course is $140 for 1 or 2 people, $160 for 3 to 6. Info: 406-547-2266.
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LEARN ABOUT BLACK BUTTE COPPER PROJECT
The first of every month, Tintina Resources offers public tours of the Black Butte Copper Project, a proposed underground mining project to take advantage of a remarkable copper
deposit near White Sulphur Springs. There’s also a presentation on the environmental safety precautions and economic impact. Tintina hopes to begin mining operations by 2020. Call 406-547-3466 to reserve a spot.
L E W IS T O W N A RE A Distance from Bozeman 162 miles
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, artists and craftsmen. Info: enjoylewistown.com.
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LIMEKILN TRAIL AND ACKLEY LAKE
Seven-mile Limekiln Trail is a loop tour offering hiking, biking and horseback riding about 20 minutes northeast of town, via Hwy 191 and Limekiln Road. Manmade Ackley Lake offers primitive camping with water activities – boating, fishing and waterskiing – varied enough to please every member of the family. Find it west of town, near Hobson.
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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, baked items and crafts. 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.
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BEAR GULCH 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. Tours are Wednesday-Sunday by appointment, Jun 1-Sept. 30. Info:www.beargulch.net.
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CHEW CHOO
The Charles Russell Chew Choo offers a 56-mile dinner train experience, complete with entertainment, every Saturday through Oct. 7. Info: www.montanadinnertrain.com.
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INTO THE WILDERNESS
An hour north on Hwy 191, you’ll find access to the 1 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 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.
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DON’T-MISS EVENTS
Offering a slow race of early model tractors and steam engines is the June 10-11 Pioneer Power Days, near the airport. The annual Snowy Mountain Muzzleloaders Rendezvous is June 23-25 at Ed McGivern Memorial Park. Featuring demonstrations and a fun traders row. The Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering is Aug. 17-20 this year, featuring 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 Dave Stamey. Info: montanacowboypoetrygathering.com. And the annual Chokecherry Fest, with 250 vendors and artists, is Sept. 9. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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BUTTE AREA Distance from Bozeman: 85 miles
“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. The mining heritage left many marks on the landscape and tons of history for daytrippers to explore. Be sure to check out the “Ringing Rocks” east of Butte, which chime when tapped lightly with a hammer. Crystal Park near the Wise River is a favorite for families of crystal hunters. For the adventurous daytrip, seek out the Humbug Spires south of Butte and the Pipestone area east of town for rock climbing opportunities. Info: www.buttecvb.com.
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VISIT THE BERKELEY 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 March through October. Call 406-723-3177. 54
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TAKE THE TROLLEY
Old No. 1 Trolley offers 2-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 from Memorial Day Saturday through September. Info: www. buttechambersite.org/the-trolley.
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SEE BUTTE’S HISTORIC 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 2 more 90-minute historical tours covering 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: www.buttetours.info.
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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 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. Today, it’s managed by the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives as an arts center and museum. The new permanent exhibit is “Ring Down the Drop: The Arts & Cultural History of Butte.” It is open from noon-4 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday in summer, with a single daily tour a 1 p.m. Info: clarkchateaubutte.wordpress.com.
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VISIT A MUSEUM
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, located 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.
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ATTEND A FESTIVAL
Check out one of these Butte-area festivals:
M O N TA N A F O L K F ES T I VA L 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 2017 Montana Festival is July 7-9 in Butte’s Historic District. It features performances and demonstrations by some of the region’s fin-
Butte area museums include: The Piccadilly Transportation Memorabilia Museum, 20 W. Broadway St., features a large display of antique transportation artifacts 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, located 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 unground 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, Mont., 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 Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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est musicians, dancers and craftspeople, with multiple stages, a participatory dance pavilion, family fun area and food and craft vendors. Info: www.montanafolkfestival.com.
E V EL K NIE V EL D AY S The annual Evel Knievel Days, July 27-29 this year, is as unique as the legendary stunt performer and Butte native. It draws more than 50,000 visitors to see stunts and spectacles featuring motorcycles, BMX, mountain bikes, skateboards and more. Info: www.evelknieveldays.org.
L O W L A N D C A M P G R O UN D 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.
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SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
Fairmont Hot Springs and Resort, just west of Butte, has golf, tennis and a waterslide. The resort is also close to hiking, fishing and Georgetown Lake. Info: www.fairmontmontana.com.
A N R I R A M O N TA N A IR ISH F ES T I VA L The An Ri Ra Montana Irish Festival is a celebration of Butte’s Irish heritage, Aug. 10-12, located at Butte’s Original Mine Yard. Bring lawn chairs and umbrellas to enjoy the outdoor setting. 2017 performers include The Prodigals, Evans & Doherty with Tom Sweeney, Teada, Dublin Gulch, Mad 4 Trad, and Irish dance troupes, plus crafts and food. Info: www. mtgaelic.org/an-ri-ra-montana-irish-festival.
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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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GO TO THE DRIVE-IN MOVIE THEATER
Enjoy a movie outdoors at the Silver Bow Drive In movie theater. The theater is open seasonally, just a few minutes south of Butte on German Gulch Road. Cash only. Info: www. silverbowdrivein.com.
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SET UP CAMP
Butte’s National Forest Service camping opportunities include:
B E AV ER D A M C A M P G R O UN D Seven miles west of Butte on Interstate 90, then 12 miles south on Interstate 15, then six miles west on Divide Creek Road. Info: 406-494-2147.
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MIS S OUL A A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 203 miles
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.
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RIDE THE CAROUSEL
A Carousel for Missoula took its first spin in 1995 after four years and more than 100,000 hours of volunteer work. This hand-crafted carousel includes 38 ponies, two chariots, 14 gargoyles and the largest band organ in continuous use in the United States It’s at 101 Carousel Dr., with the Dragon Hollow play area right next door. Info: carouselformissoula.com.
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HIKE MOUNT 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.
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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 7-9. Info: www.missoulamarathon.org.
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HIT 2 WATER PARKS
Splash Mountain 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, 15,000 square feet of bowls, bank walls, rails and terraced includes. Currents Aquatic Center at McCormick Park offers water slides, spray features and a hot tub. Info for all 3 at: www.ci.missoula.mt.us.
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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 staffers provide tours. Pack your own lunch and drinks, and bring cash for the admission fee. Info: garnetghosttown.net.
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DRINK LIQUID BREAD
Missoula loves its hand-crafted breweries, and you will too. There are 10: Bayern Brewing, 1507 Montana St.; Montana Brewery Tours, 411 W. Front St.; Big Sky Brewing Co., 5417 Trumpeter Way; Draught Works 915 Toole Ave.; Flathead Lake Brewing Co., 424 N. Higgins Ave.; Great Burn Brewing, 2230 McDonald Ave; Kettlehouse Brewing Company, with locations at 600 Myrtle St. and 313 N. 1st; Missoula Brewing Co., 200 International Dr.; and Tamarack Brewing, 231 W. Front St.
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SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
There are a few opportunities to soak in a hot spring near Missoula:
Alameda’s Hot Springs Retreat, at the foot of the Cabinet Mountains in Hot Springs, Mont. There is no 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, Mont., 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.
GRE AT FA L L S A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 185 miles
Called the “Electric City” because of its numerous dams and power plants, Great Falls is located on the Missouri River among the five 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.
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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-Sunday in summer. Info: www.cmrussell.org.
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VISIT THE LEWIS & CLARK NATIONAL HISTORIC TRAIL INTERPRETIVE CENTER
Merriwether Lewis and William Clark might enjoy knowing that their difficult month at Great Falls, and their expedition, is recalled and celebrated at this 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 Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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five great falls. Test your strength pulling a boat against the Missouri’s current.
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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 156190 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.
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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.
T W IN BRID G E S A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 86 miles
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. It’s 14 miles south of Twin Bridges on Hwy 41. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/beaverhead-rock. Area info: www.rubyvalleychamber.com.
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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.
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TAKE YOUR FAMILY TO THE FAIR
The Madison County Fair will be held Aug. 9-13 at the Madison County Fairgrounds in Twin Bridges. Info: madison. mt.gov.
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VISIT THE TWIN BRIDGES HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM
The volunteer-run Twin Bridges Historical Association, at 202 Main St., is open from 1-5 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 history of the area. Admission is free. Info: 406-684-5121.
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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 house-made seasonings and sauces. Info: www.wagonwheelmt.com.
HEL EN A A RE A
Distance from Bozeman: 97 miles
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, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. Info: www.helenamt.com.
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SEE HELENA BY TRAIN
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 6th and Roberts just east of the Capitol. Info: lctours.com.
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VISIT THE CAPITOL BUILDING
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. Sunday. Summer guided tours run May 15-Sept. 15, Monday-Saturday beginning at 10 and 11 a.m., noon, 1 and 2 p.m. Info: visit-the-capitol.mt.gov.
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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 noon, 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Visit mhs.mt.gov/education/ogmtours.
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EXPLORE A MUSEUM
Helena has a variety of museums for visitors to explore including:
E X P L O R AT I O N W O R K S The state’s capital has a rich history and culture. The city owes 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.” The capital was moved from Virginia City to Helena in 1875. In 1898, ground was broken for the Capitol Building.
995 Carousel Way
This is Montana’s Science Center, open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Exhibits explore the physics of water; investigate how we see and the evolution of motion pictures; and follow the life cycle of baby trout. Build with blocks and take the Mindball Challenge in the Science Café, and don’t miss Exploration Garden outside. Info: explorationworks.org. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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M O N TA N A HIS T O R I C A L S O C IE T Y MUSEUM A N D C.M. RUS SEL L G A L L ER Y
Ice Cream Co., 989 Carousel Way. For hours and more information, visit greatnortherncarousel.com.
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. and until 8 p.m. on Thursday. Admission is free on Thursdays from 5-8 p.m. and on the second Saturday of each month. A combo ticket includes the Original Governor’s Mansion. Visit mhs.mt.gov.
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225 N. Roberts
M O N TA N A MIL I TA R Y 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, but it’s open on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and there’s a virtual tour at www.montanamilitarymuseum.org.
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RIDE THE GREAT NORTHERN CAROUSEL
Helena is home to the Great Northern Carousel, a modern, hand-built, 40-foot carousel with 37 hand-carved and hand-painted wooden animals, including a grizzly bear and cutthroat trout. The carousel is adjacent to the Great Northern
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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. The tour passes Mann Gulch, where 13 smoke jumpers died in 1949; Norman Maclean tells their story in “Young Men & Fire.” Boat tours of the area, 16 miles north of Helena off Interstate 15, are offered daily through Labor Day, then daily except Mondays and Tuesdays through Sept. 24. Info: www.gatesofthemountains.com.
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VISIT THE ARBORETUM
Tizer Botanic Gardens and Arboretum have a dozen themed gardens, including rose, herb, butterfly and meditation gardens. They are at 38 Tizer Rd., off Interstate 15 south of Helena in Jefferson City. Info: www.tizergardens.com.
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GO TO A RODEO
The Helena area features four rodeos during the summer:
E A S T HEL EN A R O D EO
July 14-161, East Helena Rodeo Grounds Info: rodeosusa.com/rodeos/ east-helena-valley-rodeo/
L A S T C H A N C E S TA M P ED E & FA IR
July 26-29, Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds Info: www. lewisandclarkcountyfairgrounds.com
B R O A D WAT ER C O UN T Y FA IR A N D R O D EO
Aug. 4-5, Townsend Fairgrounds, Townsend, Mont. (about 40 minutes southeast of Helena) Info: www.townsendfairgrounds.com
JEF F ER S O N C O UN T Y FA IR A N D R O D EO
Aug. 24-27, Recreation Park, Boulder, Mont. (about 30 minutes south of Helena) Info: www.jeffersoncounty-mt.gov
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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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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 the 1930s and 40s, most famous for her role as Norma Charles in The Thin Man series. Info: myrnaloycenter.com.
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EXPLORE 75 YEARS OF 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. Admission is free. Info: www.holtermuseum.org.
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SEE A POW WOW
The Last Chance Community Pow Wow is Sept. 29-Oct. 1 in the Exhibit Hall at the Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds. Grand entry times are at 7 p.m. Sept. 29, 1 and 7 p.m. Sept. 30, and 1 p.m. Oct. 1. Info: www.lastchancepowwow.com.
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SPEND THE DAY AT CANYON FERRY 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 and marinas available. Canyon Ferry Reservoir is 20 miles east of Helena off Highway 287. Visit www.usbr.gov/ gp/mtao/canyonferry.
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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.
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VIEW AND BUY ART
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. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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ANACONDA AREA Distance from Bozeman: 108 miles
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 Monument. 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 the town, 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, built in 1936 in the Nuevo Deco style. Designed by esteemed theater architect B. Marcus Priteca, it is decorated with murals and ornamented in silver, copper and gold leaf. It shows movies nightly; cash only. 62
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DROP INTO THE SNAKE PIT
The city’s 4,000-square-foot skate park, in Benny Goodman Park, features a street section with mini ramps perfect for beginners and a more challenging bowl area. If your kids are smaller, check out the hiking trail and playgrounds at Washoe Park.
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THEN HIT THE SLIDE
The Copper Chute Super Slide, at 305 E. Park St., in the Charlotte Yeoman Martin Complex, is free and fun for all ages. It begins at the top of a 40-foot-high mound and runs 140 feet in length. It’s made of puckboard, the same material used around the sides of hockey rinks. Info: www.visitmt.com/listings/general/city-park/copper-chute.html
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JUMP IN GEORGETOWN LAKE
Averaging 16 feet in depth, Georgetown Lake covers more than 3,700 acres. It is located about 18 miles west of Anaconda off Highway 1. Georgetown Lake is home to large populations of trophy-sized rainbow and brook trout and large numbers of kokanee salmon. It’s a popular destination for camping, fishing, hiking and more.Info: georgetownlakemt.com.
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PLAY A JACK 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.
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HAIL 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: www.facebook.com/CopperVillageMuseumAndArtCenter.
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GO TO PRISON
Located at 1106 Main St., in nearby Deer Lodge, the Old Prison Museum complex takes up 6 city blocks, so wear comfortable shoes. Once the old state prison, the old brick structures behind the gray stone wall were mainly made by prisoners. The actual Old Prison Museum houses the intimidating Cell House and Black Box of maximum security. Don’t miss the cement shoes, weighing 20 pounds each, which were assigned to 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 cowboys, Indians and frontiersmen and women, dating from 1829 to 1900, plus hundreds of handguns and rifles; 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. New on display this year is the exhibit “Yellowstone National Park’s Official Photographers: Frank and Jack Haynes,” at the Frontier Museum. Info: pcmaf.org.
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COWBOYS AND CATTLEMEN
Also in Deer Lodge, the historic Grant-Kohrs Ranch, 266 Warren Lane, is a working ranch celebrating the cowboy and cattleman’s West. It’s operated by the National Park Service. Summer events include branding day with calf branding and family activities, Junior Ranger Day and Haying with Horses demonstration days. Ranger-led tours are offered daily, including the wagon tour, chuckwagon talk, cowboy talk, blacksmith talk and main ranch house tour. Info: www.nps.gov/grko.
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VISIT LIMESTONE CLIFFS AT LOST CREEK STATE PARK
East of Anaconda, the gray limestone cliffs and pink and white granite formations at Lost Creek State Park soar 1,200 feet above the canyon floor. Visitors will also find a short hiking trail that leads to one of the park’s most popular destinations, the 50-foot cascade called Lost Creek Falls. For a longer hike, head up the Forest Service trail just north of the falls parking area. It winds for several miles along Lost Creek through forests and meadows with great views of the surrounding mountains. Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are frequently seen on the cliffs. And there are ample opportunities for camping, fishing and biking. Info: stateparks.mt.gov/ lost-creek.
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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.
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PHIL IP SBUR G A RE A Distance from Bozeman 138 miles
E. Broadway, it offers chocolates, fudge, hard candy, taffy and more. Closed Saturdays. Info: www.sweetpalace.com.
o N— Located on Hwy 1, between Anaconda and Drummond, Philipsburg has been voted one of the Prettiest Painted Places in the U.S. It’s celebrating its sesquicentennial this year; get the latest info on the July events at www.facebook.com/Pburg150. 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. Bicycling, rockhounding, birding, hiking, camping and fishing any of the nearby 75 named lakes and reservoirs are popular things to do. Info: visitphilipsburg.com.
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MINE, MINE
The Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine, “Montana’s oldest, largest and funnest,” is 22 miles outside town on the Skalkaho Highway, and open through Sept. 2 from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday-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 geodes and gifts. Info: montanagems.net.
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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 oncoming traffic. The old silver mining boom town is a shadow of its former self, but significant ruins remain. If not for a misplaced telegram from the backers telling the miners to halt operations, the $40,000,000 strike might have been missed entirely. Bring a camera. Open May through September. Info: http://stateparks.mt.gov/granite-ghost-town.
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SWEETS, SWEETS
Another must-stop in town is the Sweet Palace, the town’s well-known hand-crafted candy shop. Open since 1998 at 109 64
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AMUSEMENTS TIMES FIVE
The town 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. Offering nearly daily performances of three rotating productions is the colorful and historic Opera House Theatre. It’s the oldest continuously operating theater in Montana. The shows this year are a Vaudeville Variety Show, “Getting Sara Married” and “The Tin Man.” Staging for all the action features five backdrops painter and miner Edgar S. Paxson painted for the opera house in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Info: operahousetheatre.com. For adult libations, and growlers to go, check out the local microbrewery, Philipsburg Brewing Company, at 101 W. Broadway in the historical Sayers Building. For shopping fun, Philipsburg offers several antiques shops, a pottery, fly shop, clothing boutique and more.
DIL L ON A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 115 miles
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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SOAK IN A HOT SPRING
At the end of a long day, take some time to relax in the hot springs at Elkhorn Hot Springs. There are two outdoor natural hot springs ranging in temperature from 80 to 98 degrees. The indoor Grecian/wet sauna ranges from 98-107 degrees. There’s a restaurant and lodging too. Elkhorn Hot Springs is southwest of Dillon off Highway 278 in Polaris, Mont. Info: www. elkhornhotsprings.com.
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VISIT THE BEAVERHEAD COUNTY MUSEUM
The Beavherhead County Museum features a number of exhibits, including “Birds of Beaverhead County,” military artifacts, mammoth fossils, a miniature railroad exhibit, mining and farming equipment, a railroad pocket watch exhibit and more. It’s open Monday through Saturday in summer: Info: beaverheadcountymuseum.org.
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A LITTLE ART GAZING
At the University of Montana Western Museum and Art Gallery, 710 S. Atlantic, the art displays include works by students and some famous pros, including C.M. Russell, E.S. Paxson, Ansel Adams and Russell Chatham. Seidensticker’s Wildlife collection comes from Africa, Asia and North America. Open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays all year. Info: http://www.visitmt.com/ listings/general/art-museum/university-of-montana-western-gallery-museum.html.
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SPEND A DAY AT BANNACK STATE PARK
It’s hand tools only at this 220-acre park, a special area in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest set aside to search for 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: southwestmt.com/listings/11967.htm
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LOOK OUT WHERE CLARK DID
That would be Capt. William Clark, of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, who climbed this hill overlooking Beaverhead River on Aug. 13, 1805, to get a sense of the route ahead. Clark’s Lookout State Park, at 25 Clark’s Lookout Road, is on 8.2 acres at an elevation of 5,118 feet. 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.
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FIND PEACE, AND SWANS, AT RED ROCK LAKES
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 warm springs-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.
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.
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FISH TA IL A RE A
Distance from Bozeman: 122 miles
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.
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A GENERAL STORE SINCE 1900
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
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for camping, hunting and fishing supplies and licenses, crafts, toys and clothing, specialty meats, fresh-baked cookies and hand-dipped ice cream cones. Long tables and outdoor picnic tables provide a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Info: fishtailgeneralstore.com.
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ARTS RISING AT TIPPET RISE
Tippet Rise Art Center is Montana’s newest cultural destination, now in its second year, and is it ever popular. You may be hard-pressed to find tickets by early June for its weekend, classical music series set for July 7-Sept. 16. The center will host the nation’s largest film festival devoted to architecture and design Sept. 22-24. The 11,500-acre working ranch and outdoor art center is open for guided electric van tours, or unguided bicycling or walking treks, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Fridays-Sundays, June 30-mid-September. Reservations and info: tippetrise.org.
BILLINGS AREA Distance from Bozeman: 146 miles
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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VIEW PICTOGRAPHS
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.
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SEE POMPEYS PILLAR
Pompeys 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. The interpretive center contains information about the expedition. The Clark Days celebration is July 28-29 this year. Info: www.pompeyspillar.org.
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TOUR MOSS MANSION
Preston Boyd Moss built the 3-story, 28-room Moss Mansion, 914 Division St., in 1903. Today, the house and its original
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fixtures remain intact and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Guided tours are offered Tuesday-Sunday at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. in summer. Info: www.mossmansion.com.
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VISIT THE ART MUSEUM
The Yellowstone Art Museum, 401 N. 27th St., collects, exhibits and interprets art, with an emphasis on progressive contemporary art from the Northern Rocky Mountains and Plains. Its Montana collection alone contains 2,000 pieces. It’s open daily except Mondays. Info: www.artmuseum.org.
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PICK UP SOME WESTERN 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. Info: www.ywhc.org.
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SEE ZOOMONTANA
Montana’s only zoo is ZooMontana, located on the west side 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. Info: www.zoomontana.org.
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MAKE A SPLASH AT THE REEF INDOOR WATER PARK
The Reef Indoor Water Park, 1801 Majestic Ln., is the largest indoor water park in Montana – as big as a football field. It includes 4 smaller slides, two 3-story slides, a 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.
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VISIT 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.
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TAKE YOURSELF OUT TO A BALLGAME
Catch the action of the Billings Mustangs, the Pioneer League affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds, at Dehler Park, 2611 9th Ave. N. Info: m.milb.com.
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HOW FAIR THE 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. 11-19. Info: www.montanafair.com.
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WALK THE BREWERY DISTRICT
This self-guided, walkable 1.5-mile tour takes in 6 breweries and 2 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.
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SIP SOME WINE
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.
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PONDER CUSTER
Sixty-one miles south of Billings, on the Crow Reservation is the Little Bighorn Battlefield, where Lt. Col. George A. Custer and 262 soldiers were killed by several thousand Lakota and Northern Cheyenne warriors on June 25-26, 1876. The Last Stand lasted less than an hour. Today, it’s a moving spot where visitors can tour a small but fine museum displaying battle and Custer artifacts, see Custer National Cemetery, watch a film, hear a ranger program, walk to Last Stand Hill and the Native American monument beyond it, drive the battlefield or learn the story from the Crow perspective by touring with Apsaalooke Tours, Memorial Day through Labor Day. The bookstore is excellent. Info: nps.gov/libi. Down the hill from the battlefield, the Custer Battlefield Trading Post offers a good café and shopping. Info: laststand.com. And in Garryowen, the Custer Battlefield Museum displays Indian and cavalry artifacts and photos. At I-90 exit 514. Info: www.custermuseumorg. Big Sky Publishing S U M M E R D AY T R I P P E R 2 0 1 7
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RED LODGE AREA Distance from Bozeman: 146 miles
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. That means you just have to return. 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 70
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and tee times: www.redlodgemountain.com. For more on the town and the area, visit www.redlodge.com or redlodgechamber.org.
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SEE THE YELLOWSTONE 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 address is 615 2nd St. East. Info: www.yellowstonewildlifesanctuary.org.
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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.
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GO TO THE RODEO
Looking for fun on the Fourth? Take in the Home of Champions Rodeo July 2-4. It features some of professional rodeo’s top cowboys and cowgirls. Info: redlodgerodeo.com.
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FIND ART IN THE BEARTOOTHS
The Carbon County Arts Guild & Depot Gallery will host their 44th annual Art in Beartooths event in Lions Park on July 8. The show features Signature artists Joan Kosel, Dale Marie Muller and John Potter, along with 30 other invited artists, in a public plein air painting session in Lions Park from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. A ticketed events begins at 4 p.m., with entertainment, visits with the artists, a live auction of the paintings created that day and BBQ. The proceeds from this fundraiser go to student scholarships, preservation of the historic depot building and local arts and cultural programs. Tickets are $60, and the event sells out. Get yours early. Info: www.carboncountydepotgallery.
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NAVIGATE THE BEARTOOTH HIGHWAY
The Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile, 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 3 hours to traverse the route one way. Know 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. Info: beartoothhighway.com.
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CHECK OUT THE CARBON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM
The Carbon County Historical Society Museum, at 224 N. Broadway, features exhibits on rodeo, American Indians, homesteaders, mining and more. It is open Tuesday to Saturday through September 29, closed Sept. 30 and Oct. 1 for Hoedown, and then open on Saturdays and Sundays through Memorial Day. Info: www.carboncountyhistory.com.
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BIG F O RK A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 290 miles
Bigfork was once a gathering place for the native tribes who camped near the 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. Even before it was a town, Bigfork boasted a power plant that gave its name to the town’s main street, Electric Avenue. Bigfork is surrounded by mountains and forest and hugs the shore of Bigfork Bay on Flathead Lake. The town is known for fine dining, fine art and great theatre. The community was designated “One of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in the West,” thanks to its art galleries. 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: bikfork.org.
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VISIT BIGFORK SUMMER PLAYHOUSE
This year, its 58th season of live professional theater, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse will present “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” “7 Brides for 7 Brothers,” “Mamma Mia!” “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” and “The Drowsy Chaperone.” Info: bigforksummerplayhouse.com.
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SAMPLE WHISTLING ANDY’S
This distillery at 8541 Hwy 35, is open daily and serving and selling its own bourbon whiskey, hibiscus coconut rum, gin and hopschnops. Sample them straight or in a fine crafted cocktail. Info: whistlingandy.com.
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TREK WITH LLAMAS
Whether you have 2 hours or days, Swan Mountain Llama Trekking in Bigfork has a tour for you, and a chance to meet these Camels of the Clouds. Info: www.llamatrekmontana.com.
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EXPERIENCE FLATHEAD LAKE
Created by Ice Age glaciers, at nearly 30 miles long and 15 miles across, Flathead Lake is the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi in the Lower 48. With 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; and Pointer Scenic Cruises, wildhorseislandboattrips.com.
GL A CIER N AT ION A L PA RK
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Distance from Bozeman: 301 miles
Called the “Crown of the Continent,” Glacier National Park features pristine forests, alpine meadows, spectacular lakes and rugged mountains. Located on the United States-Canada border, Glacier welcomed 2.95 million visitors in 2016. Popular for both hiking and backpacking, the park offers 700 miles of trails, wildlife, activities and more. For some, it serves as a place of great solitude. Info: www.nps.gov/glac.
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DRIVE THE GOINGTO-THE-SUN ROAD
The No. 1 thing to do is drive Going-to-the-Sun Road, a 50-mile meander through the park’s interior, winding around mountainsides and offering incredible views. The earliest the whole road is open each year is June 19. Without stops, it takes about 2 hours to drive.
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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.
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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.
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K A L IS P EL L A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 308 miles
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 festivals. The city also offers plenty of recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, hiking, biking and huckleberry picking. Info: www. discoverkalispell.com.
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VISIT THE HOCKADAY MUSEUM OF ART
The Hockaday Museum of Art, at 302 2nd Ave. E., is housed in a century-old museum that has undergone significant renovations to create a sophisticated museum setting. The permanent collection focuses on the art and artists of Montana. Another permanent exhibition, The Crown of the Continent, captures the nostalgia and grandeur of Glacier National Park. It’s open Tuesday-Saturday. Info: www.hockadaymuseum.org.
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TOUR THE CONRAD MANSION
The Conrad Mansion sits on the edge of the original townsite, atop a bluff. Charles E. Conrad built the 26-room mansion in
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1895 for his family. Docents lead tours five or six days a week. The 3 acres around the mansion feature lovely gardens and a gazebo. Info: www.conradmansion.com.
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RIDE A HORSE
Kalispell features a variety of opportunities for adventures via horse: Artemis Acres Paint Horse Ranch offers rides through miles of private timberland to places offering incredible views of the Flathead Valley, Flathead Lake and the Swan Mountain Range. Rides include: 1-hour lesson rides for the novice rider, 2-hour morning or afternoon rides, half-day and full-day rides. Info: www.artemisacres.com. High Country Trails offers a variety of horseback trail rides on 800 acres. Info: www.horserentals.com.
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WATCH CAR RACES
Six miles north of Kalispell, Montana Raceway Park features Saturday night races through Sept. 16. Classes include Super Stocks, Hobby Stocks, Bandoleros and Hornets. The track is a quarter mile and the grandstand capacity is 4,000. Info: www. mtracewaypark.com.
W HI T EF ISH A RE A Distance from Bozeman: 325 miles
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.
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VISIT WHITEFISH LAKE STATE PARK
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.
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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 5 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: Founded by three Broadway veterans, Alpine Theatre Project has brought Broadway talent, production and education to Flathead Valley since 2004. Shows this season include “Liberty, the American Experience,” “Outside the Box,” “Thoroughly Modern Millie Jr.” and “Tarzan the Musical.” The theater is at 600 E. 2nd St. Info: www.atpwhitefish.org. Whitefish Theatre Co. is nationally recognized as a community theater that produces professional-level productions. The first show of the summer is “Cabaret.” Info: www.whitefishtheatreco.org.
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ODE TO THE HUCKLEBERRY
Huckleberry Days is an art festival in celebration of the huckleberry. The date this year is Aug. 11-13. More than 100 artists and food vendors take over Depot Park.
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HAVRE AREA
Distance from Bozeman: 298 miles
Located on the rolling plains of north-central Montana, Havre got its start as a transportation hub for the first trains forging across the Great Plains. It provided goods and supplies to area trappers, miners and military personnel stationed at nearby Fort Assiniboine. 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. Today, visitors enjoy fishing, camping and boating at Fresno Reservoir, all kinds of summer recreation at Beaver Creek Park, history at the Wahkpa Chu’gn Buffalo Jump and the scenery on the 5-mile drive through the Badlands along the Milk River. Stop in at the Havre Chamber of Commerce, 130 5th Ave., for information on touring the fort. Summer events include the Saturday Market, July 8-Sept. 16; the Rocky Boy Powwow, Aug. 4-6; and the Great Northern Fair, July 19-23. Info: havrechamber.com.
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TOUR HAVRE BENEATH THE STREETS
The Havre Beneath the Streets tour takes visitors through such former establishments as the Chinese laundry, ethnic restaurant, bordello, opium den and Sporting Eagle Saloon, a turn-of-the-century honky-tonk. Tours are offered from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. daily in summer. The ticket office is at 120 3rd Ave.
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VISIT THE FRANK DEROSA RAILROAD MUSEUM
This museum, at 120 3rd Ave., offers a history of the railroad, a re-creation of an old relay office, a reference library, original hand push carts, a working block signal and a complete model railroad. It’s open Monday-Saturday. 76
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EXPLORE THE BEARS PAW RANGE
Ten miles south of Havre on Highway 234, the Bears Paw Mountains are a great recreation spot. Considered prairie island mountains, formed by active volcanic activity, the Bears Paw range covers 40 miles east to west and 20 miles north to south, and offers great hiking, camping and fishing.
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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. June through Labor Day it’s open Monday through Saturday. It’s 6 miles southwest of Havre on Hwy 57. The H. Earl Clack Museum, in the Holiday Village Shopping Center, presents the history of the Hi-Line and some impressive dinosaur fossils. Memorial Day to Labor Day, it’s open 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, noon-5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free.
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WHEN YOU NEED A PICK ME UP
Henny Penny Cupcakes, at 215 3 rd Ave., has been offering gourmet cupcakes, all-occasion cakes and homemade soups to locals and visitors alike since 2012.
Henny Penny Cupcakes WE’RE MORE THAN A
CUPCAKE STORE.
We serve homemade soups, rolls, sandwiches and salads. We bake everything in house from scratch. We have a large variety of cupcakes available daily and also bake specialty cakes! 234 4th Ave, Havre, MT 59501 (406) 262-7886 • hennypennycupcakes.com Follow us on Facebook for Daily Specials!
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A century ago in Havre, businesses operated beneath the streets. A fire had destroyed much of the town, and businesses moved to an underground mall until everything could be rebuilt. Today, visitors can tour some of those old shops.
AUGUST EVENTS 14-18:
Malta, Montana Dinosaur Dig Adult Field Program, Malta. Great Plains Dinousaur Museum & Field Station. Adults pay to join dig for a day or more. Reserve early. www.greatplainsdinosaurs.org.
17-20:
Lewistown, Montana Cowboy Poetry Gathering & Western Music Rendezvous. Second-oldest cowboy poetry festival in U.S.; hourly performances, music, workshops. Montanacowboypoetrygathering.com.
17-21:
Three Forks, Rockin’ the Rivers. 30 bands, 2 stages. www.rockintherivers.com.
Crow Agency, 99th Annual Crow Fair & Rodeo. 1,000-plus teepee encampment, cultural activities. www.crazycrow.com/ site/event/crow-fair-pow-wow-rodeo.
19-20:
Big Sky, Classical Music Festival. Friday performers include Mary Elizabeth Bowden, Molly Morkoski and Angella Ahn. Saturday it’s the Mambo Kings. www. bigskyarts.org.
Hamilton, Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering. Parade of clans, Irish hurling, highland dancing, vendors. Bcgg.org.
26:
Helena, York 38 Special Mountain Bike Ride. 38-mile ride through Big Belt Mountains, on Forest Service roads, starts at York Fire Station. www. york38special.org.
3-5:
Billings, Magic City Blues Festival. Two nights of blues and rock. www. magiccityblues.com.
4-6:
Bozeman, 40th Annual Sweet Pea Festival. Sweetpeafestival.org.
4-13:
West Yellowstone, Smoking Waters Mountain Man Rendezvous. Encampment, entertainment, demonstrations, seminars. Twoturtlestradingpost.com.
7-9:
Kalispell, Plein-Air Painting: Glacier National Park Region. Linda Glover Gooch helps participants capture painting outdoors. www.hockadaymuseum.org.
11-13: 11-13:
11-13:
Huckleberry Days Arts Festival in Whitefish, SummerFest on Flathead Lake in Polson. visitmt.com/things-to-do/ events.html
11-19:
Billings, Montanafair. 4-H events, exhibits, competitions, entertainment including Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, and Melissa Etheridge, Aug. 11. Montanafair.com.
12:
Dillon, Madison Valley Arts Festival. Exhibitors, vendors, kids activities, authors. www.ennisartsassociation.org.
12-13:
Missoula, Travelers’ Rest Festival. 2 days of concerts, Decemberists headlining both days. Bigskybrewconcerts.com.
27-Sept. 2: Big Fork, Crown Guitar Workshop & Guitar Festival. Grammy-winners Jerry Douglas and Mike Stern, blues master Brent Mason, David Lindley, Emily Elbert, classical guitar master Jason Vieaux, at Flathead Lake Lodge. www. crownguitarfest.org.
SEPTEMBER EVENTS 1-4:
Ashland: Labor Day Powwow. Drummers, dancers, games, arts & beadwork, at Ashland Arbor. www.crazycrow.com/site/ event/ashland-labor-day-powwow.