Unwind, Unplug and Stay Awhile; Relaxing in Montana's Yellowstone Country

Summer seems to fly by, loaded with activities, vacations, family and friends, making those quiet days of relaxing seem elusive. We talk a lot about all the outdoor adventure, events, festivals and live music in the region, but Montana’s Yellowstone Country also has a quiet side, and we're here to tell you about it.

Relaxing in a Local Park

One of the most understated assets is our local parks. Sacajawea Park in Livingston sits along the Yellowstone River, with a lovely path for leisurely walks. The park itself is shaded with large trees and offers tennis courts, a skate park, a large playground and room for community events such as the Farmers Market. Also located further downriver on the Yellowstone in Columbus is Itch-kep-pe Park. The name derives from the Crow term Bichkapáashe, meaning quiet or still water. The park is a terrific birding location and offers free camping for up to 7 days. Both are great places to hang a hammock, enjoy a picnic or cool off in the river.

Exceptional Birding Opportunities

Speaking of birding, YC is home to over 400 species of birds, in part due to the diverse habitat, but also the migratory corridors, such as the Bridger Mountain Range, home to the largest known golden eagle migration in the country. (This happens late August through October, with the Bridger Raptor Festival taking place early October.) A frequent addition to many life lists, you'll and find the magpie here. And, apparently, birding has become a popular pastime among the younger generation, which warms our hearts. For more information, you can download our free Montana Birding Guide.

Off-the-Grid Accommodations

For those who enjoy things a bit more rustic and secluded, Forest Service cabins are a great way to get out of the crowds, immerse yourself in the forest and unplug. (It’s also huckleberry season, IYKYK.) These cabins were originally built for Forest Service rangers and as fire lookouts in the 1900s. Today, they allow you to get out into the wild with a bit more comfort than a tent. Reservations open six months in advance and are available at recreation.gov.

Cooling Off

This summer, cooling off has been top of mind for most everyone, and floating the river is an excellent option. Montana Whitewater offers shuttle services and flotation devices to the Madison River, an easy stretch of shallow water that most anyone can float. (PRO TIP: Bring an extra float tube with a cooler full of snacks and cold beverages!) On the other side of the region, Adventure Whitewater has a private launch into the Stillwater River!

Spa Day

Of course, not everyone loves the great outdoors, and for those who don’t, we’ve got plenty of ways for you to relax as well! Sage Lodge and Chico Hot Springs both have beautiful spas, along with Sanctuary in Big Sky and The Loft in Bozeman.

Patio Season

And since it’s patio season, perhaps you'll round out your day with a cold beer or a glass of bubbles and an appetizer at one of our local breweries or restaurants.

Happy relaxing!