Ride, Ski, Fish, Explore — Spring in Montana's Yellowstone Country

Here in Bozeman, the trees started budding almost simultaneously with the first day of Spring. It was a bit uncanny. It’s such a beautiful time of year here in Montana’s Yellowstone Country; it’s warm, but not hot, the mountain tops are still snow-covered (spring skiing anyone?), and the lower elevations begin showing off their shades of chartreuse. The first male grizzly was spotted in Yellowstone National Park, and soon the females and cubs will emerge from their dens. Other babies will be coming soon, too: the red dogs (bison calves), wolf pups, and elk and deer calves. Plus, Yellowstone is less crowded in the spring, so it’s a lovely time to explore.

As of now, spring biking is open in Yellowstone, so you can ride most of the interior without encountering cars. (With the exception of the road between Gardiner and Silver Gate, which stays open to vehicles year-round.) You’ll have until mid-April to take advantage of this extra special way to explore the park. You can also bike to Hyalite Reservoir from April 1st through May 15th, when the road is closed to vehicles (including e-bikes).



And, for the anglers out there, we’re in the sweet spot between winter and the runoff, where the rivers are starting to warm, but are still running clear.

Our event calendar starts to book up this time of year as well. The Montana State University American Indian Council hosts their annual powwow this weekend, followed by the MSU Spring Rodeos April 9-12.

The Spring Series begins at Big Sky Resort, where every weekend features live music at The Bowl, located on Lone Mountain, plus Pond Skim, libations, and some incredible shredding!



The Pine Creek Lodge Brew Fest is back on April 25, featuring over 14 breweries, live music by The Cullen Brothers Band and Scott Stewart, and food and fun! (There’s a free shuttle from Katabatic Brewing in Livingston.) You’ll also want to check out their summer music lineup.

Hell’s A Roarin’ Horse Drive is back once again, where you can watch the herd of horses moving from their winter grounds to their summer home in Jardine. It starts in Gardiner and ends at the Jardine Fairgrounds with a BBQ, auction, and live music and dancing with Wylie and the Wild West. All proceeds go to fund custom Action Trackchairs for disabled veterans, giving them the freedom, independence, and mobility to enjoy the outdoors.

And finally, Bozeman Restaurant Week is back April 27- May 3. If you haven’t heard, Bozeman has become quite the food scene. The variety and quality of cuisine are impressive for a town this size, often drawing other Montanans for a staycation of outdoor fun followed by some seriously good eats.

If you can swing a spring trip to YC, you won’t be disappointed!