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:

• Loving these lands: Tread lightly, pick up dog poop, donate to Gallatin Valley Land Trust, help someone who looks lost, etc.

• 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.

•Being kind: The service industry here is doing their best; we all are.

•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.

Family-Friendly Trails and Tips for Getting Outside with Your Little One(s):

MAKE IT FUN

Remember, as with any outdoor family activity, it’s all about finding the right balance between a bit of challenge mixed with a whole lot of fun. We want our kids to want to do the things we love, not dread them. That might mean turning around earlier than you normally would, stopping to look under rocks, offering plenty of snacks and, yes, learning to pee in the woods. Let go of expectations and consider any outing a win. Oh, and did I mention snacks?

I like to keep my 6-year-old enthusiastic by playing games like counting how many different wildflowers we can find, looking for fairies, stopping to play in the creeks, singing songs and making a fun hiking stick to bring along. She also adores having her own hiking backpack, with her very own first-aid kit, water, snacks (and whatever else she deems essential that day).

KEEP IT SAFE

Pack a small first-aid kit (my ski and bike patrol husband would love to hear this because it’s not my MO). I honestly keep it pretty simple and go with Band-Aids, sunscreen, a whistle, a high energy snack, extra water and layers.

It’s always a good idea to let people know where you’re going if it’s just you and your littles. Pack for all the weather options. Sun, wind, rain, hail. You don’t have to go overboard, but it’s worth it to bring a couple of optional layers, hats and a backup outfit for your kiddo in the car or pack (puddles happen).

ACT LIKE A LOCAL

Leave your trail/camp spot/anywhere you spend time in nature better than you found it. Pick up that piece of trash. Especially in our busier places like Hyalite that see high traffic. Partially because accidents happen, but also because some people don’t understand how precious these woods are and often disrespect it. (Hello eyeroll to the people I saw dump their trash behind the outhouse at the reservoir – and intense stare as I called them out for it, went and picked up their trash bag, and took it home to throw it out).

Carpool and don’t take up more parking space than you need. Trailheads are busy. Let’s all try to carpool more, and leave room for others.

Be kind, take it slow and easy. Smile and give a little wave to people when you’re on a back road, dirt road or gravel road.

Ready for some fun?

Toddler-friendly trails, which are stroller accessible and perfect for toddler legs:

• Tuckerman Park – pretty much in town, with water spots and plenty of shade.

• Sourdough Canyon Trail – offleash, dog-friendly, featuring an easy in and out trail with a sweet little creek spot.

• Palisade Falls – This stunning waterfall is well worth the drive up to Hyalite. Bring a picnic to eat by the creek in the parking area.

Family trails that won’t disappoint (harder terrain, excellent views):

• Grotto Falls – This is a gorgeous, accessible hike that is worth the drive up Hyalite with a slow and steady incline and options for an easier or harder path.

• Drinking Horse – There is a decent uphill here, so be prepared. But even if you don’t go all the way up, the views are gorgeous; choose the easier route for more shade.

• Crescent Lake – Also up Hyalite, this one starts at the reservoir and wraps around, with views of a smaller lake and the much larger reservoir, it is fairly flat and such a lovely way to spend a couple of hours. Be sure to bring a picnic to eat somewhere along the way.

Also be sure to check out Fresh Air Mamas, a free hiking group hosted by Roots Family Collaborative that meets for family hiking adventures over the summer. It’s a great way to meet other families who hike, stay safe and enjoy being in good company.

Bozeman is so special for a reason. So, let’s get outside to appreciate all this area has to offer, and do it in a way that can sustain us all for years to come.

Happy hiking.

Jessica Cartwright is a mama, birth doula and cofounder of Our Yoga, Yoga For The Whole Family. She is a certified yoga instructor who specializes in prenatal, postpartum and baby yoga. She is also a featured writer for Elephant Journal, So Much Yoga, & BOHO Daily.