Hike
Like a Local
ARTICLE AND PHOTOS JESSICA CARTWRIGHT
If you live in Montana, getting outside is the reason for any season and, after the last couple of years, being immersed in the tranquility of nature is needed more than ever. We have a lot of new people in our Treasure State and, with summer and tourist season upon us, our trails are busier than ever. To be honest, a part of me resisted writing this article. It can be hard to see people come and disrespect the places and mountains you are devoted to. Before the pandemic, new growth in Bozeman felt respectable, because it seemed like everyone who was coming here just really, really wanted to be here. They were in alignment with the values of this town. During the pandemic, however, it felt in some ways like people moved here simply because they didn’t want to be where they were before. Crowded with people who don’t understand what makes living in Bozeman so special, at times it seemed as though our town was being taken advantage of. But I know that’s not most people, so this is my invitation to you—all are welcome here! And we can all reciprocate by:
Ç Loving these lands: Tread lightly, pick up dog poop, donate to Gallatin Valley Land Trust, help someone who looks lost, etc.
Ç Driving the speed limit: It’s really not necessary to pass people in canyons; and if you’re going slow, pull over to let people pass.
Ç Being kind: The service industry here is doing their best; we all are. Ç Feeling that amazing community vibe: Let it fuel you and inspire you, and continue to give back to it.
So, with those tips in mind, read on to learn good family trail practices to keep Bozeman the place we love and treat it like a local would, no matter how new you are to town. 18
summer 2022
