Only In Bozeman

In 2021, the Fourth of July is back on again in Montana, and we couldn’t be happier. With vaccines becoming accessible and COVID-19 cases dwindling in the state, many Fourth of July events are taking place this summer after a year of hiatus. Whether you choose to attend an event or get together with a few close friends, there are plenty of ways to celebrate in the Bozeman area. 

Summer in Montana is rodeo season. Every town, big or small, has one, and each brings its own flair and feel. Attending a rodeo is a great way to experience and celebrate Montana's culture, with entertaining cowboys and cowgirls, concerts and other rowdy, foot-stompin,' hand-clappin' events.

Bozeman hosts its own rodeo — the Bozeman Stampede — for one weekend in August, and there are plenty of other rodeos in the area to check out. Small-town rodeos can really be a blast because the whole town gets excited for their annual chance to show off their Montana heritage. Here are a few of the best Montana rodeos near Bozeman to put on your calendar.

Yellowstone National Park is vast. 2,221,776 million acres vast, to be specific. There’s a lot to see, and a lot that we’ll never see. Driving through the park is essential to get to the different areas, each with unique natural features, wildlife, and incredible landscapes. But to really experience the solitude and beauty, you'll want to get off the beaten path and go for a short hike. The smells, sounds and serenity of nature are well worth the time, and you don't have to climb a mountain to experience them. If you can build it into your schedule, there are plenty of easy hikes that take you to some beautiful natural features. We’ve outlined five of our favorite easy hikes in Yellowstone National Park.

It's that time of year — outdoor patios and rooftop decks are opening up, and there is a buzz of energy around town. As the days get longer, more people will linger over leisurely dinners, soaking up the warm weather and enjoying lively conversation. Bozeman has no shortage of outdoor dining, and with mountain ranges in every direction, the views are often stunning. Here are the best restaurants and bars with outdoor seating in Bozeman. 

Montana is the kind of place that makes all of your summer dreams come true. Paddleboarding on a clear, alpine lake? Check. A crackling campfire under a blanket of stars? Got that. Two National Parks and endless mountain hikes? Yup.

The list could go on and on, but we tried to narrow it down to the top 10 things to do in Montana in the summer.

In Bozeman, you’ll find them outside breweries, in lonely parking lots, or along busy, walkable streets, always pumping out mouthwatering smells and making you hungry. Small but mighty, food trucks serve hearty and quality meals on-the-go at a lower price point than many sit-down restaurants. While they’re often known for their greasy, late-night eats, Bozeman has a wide variety of options from vegan to French, to authentic Mexican.

Wildflowers give you the best of nature’s beauty, often surprising you with flashes of color as you trek along a hiking trail. You really can’t go wrong with a hike in Bozeman around wildflower season, which can range from April to July and beyond, depending on elevation. But there are some spots that are even more spectacular than others. Here are some of the best wildflower hikes around Bozeman, Montana.

Bozeman is a haven for rock climbers of all levels, with hundreds of routes that can be accessed within less than an hour of driving. Though famed for its plentiful ice climbing routes in the winter, Bozeman’s canyons offer tons of climbing experiences from spring to fall, from bouldering to sport and trad, and even some easy, beginner’s top-rope routes. 

For many people, traveling solo is their favorite way to adventure. The benefits are understandable; set your own schedule, move at your own pace, enjoy some quiet time and take advantage of the activities you enjoy most. If you find yourself wanting a little alone time, Bozeman is a great place to immerse yourself.