The first major target for our adventure was to explore the broader Bozeman area, which (in my mind) includes everything from Livingston to Gallatin Gateway and Three Forks. Just south of Livingston, Montana, is an area I had not anticipated — Paradise Valley.
Flanked by the Absaroka and Gallatin mountains, the aptly named valley follows the Yellowstone River all the way down to Yellowstone National Park. It is an absolutely incredible drive. From awe-inspiring to majestic and calming, Paradise Valley is truly a thing of beauty!
Though a destination isn’t necessary to justify exploring Paradise Valley, we found the Stone Creek Falls hike to be a worthwhile adventure. And the sandy beaches along the river were both unexpected and perfect for picnicking (our favorite was the Loch Leven day use picnic area).
We also really enjoyed Livingston, which has a charming downtown and wealth of fantastic food options. It’s easy to understand why Livingston was one of Anthony Bourdain’s favorites.
As great as Livingston is, it’s easy to understand why so many people are flocking to Bozeman. Interestingly, downtown Bozeman reminded me of Madison, WI’s downtown. Which is a good thing! Countless Foodie worthy options, numerous walking & biking paths, and a generally laid back, welcoming environment. The juxtaposition of nature to city is well balanced.
One of our favorite areas was South Bozeman. In part because that’s where we found Alpacas of Montana, an incredible alpaca and llama farm (and textile business) that has recently started giving tours. But also because despite only being ten to fifteen minutes from downtown, you feel like you’re in the countryside. Surrounded by mountains!
We had a wonderful time at Alpacas of Montana learning about and, yes, hugging these incredible animals 🦙 Big shout out to Annie, who gave us a personalized tour that went above and beyond 🥰 This was an absolute highlight of our time in Bozeman!
In addition to Paradise Valley and the South Side of Bozeman, we found some specific spots that we’ll want to explore more,
The various Hyalite areas (Foothills, Meadows, Canyon Estates, etc.)
Gardner Park
While checking out the various Hyalite areas, we took some time to drive through scenic Gallatin Canyon and hike Palisade Falls. If you’re ever in Bozeman, this drive and hike are highly recommended!
Nearby Belgrade, Manhattan, and Three Forks are also fascinating spots. Still close to Bozeman and its infrastructure, but less developed with more acreage available.
Next we ventured to Missoula where I fell in love with Notorious PIG’s signature sandwich, the Ultimate Reuben. Made with beef and pork belly pastrami on marble rye, this sandwich was AWESOME 🤩 I’m still having meat sweat dreams about it! Between that delicious lunch, and all the incredible biking and walking paths, Missoula has a lot of potential… but between Bozeman and Missoula, we feel we’re more Bobcat than Grizzlie.
Next up is Whitefish and the surrounding Flathead valley 🚙