Wilsall
Twenty miles northeast of Bozeman, is the quaint and quiet town of Wilsall, set in the Shields Valley of the Bridger Mountain Range on land traditionally occupied by the Crow People. The Shields River is one of Montana’s prime trout streams and the Crazy Mountains offer up a hardy helping of outdoor rec. Plus, Bridger Bowl Ski Resort—where the legends of freestyle made their mark—is just 30 minutes down the road.
Wilsall’s a year-round destination for its outdoor recreation alone. In addition to legendary downhill skiing winter warriors come for the Nordic skiing, sledding, and snowmobiling. In the warmer months, hop on the trails for mountain biking, horseback riding and guided backpacking trips. Fishing, golfing and hunting? You’ll find those here, too.
Every June, Wilsall saddles up for annual Wilsall Rodeo, a two-day, small-town rodeo that draws thousands for Northern Rodeo Association sanctioned events and family fun, like a Fireman’s Breakfast and a parade. In August, cowboys and cowgirls from ranches the region over come to compete in the Wilsall Ranch Rodeo, and it’s wildly fun to watch.
Fun Fact
“Wilsall” is a mashup of the names William and Sally, the son and daughter in law of prominent citizen and land owner Walter B. Jordan, who platted the town.
