5 things to do on your way to Yellowstone

Get to a Rodeo

1. Go to a Rodeo

Summer starts the rodeo season for not only the local small towns of Montana but also the Professional Bull riding circuit (PBR).  The local rodeos showcase some excellent display of skills by cowboys and cowgirls throughout the state.  And the view at a few of the rodeo locations is hard to beat.  The Wilsall, MT rodeo has a backdrop of the beautiful Crazy Mountains. Everyone from young children to grandparents will enjoy this exciting entertainment.  So go grab a seat in the bleachers, a few hotdogs and get ready to yell Yee-Haw!!

2. Discover dinosaurs at the Museum of the Rockies

If you are visiting southwest Montana, you know there are plenty of activities to do outside. Occasionally a rainstorm or two might change your plans, or everyone just needs a break from the hot sun.  Take an afternoon to check out the Museum of the Rockies.  With one of the largest dinosaur exhibits in the world, the Taylor Planetarium, a living history farm and a rotating exhibit, there is sure to be something to please every member in your group.

Take in the sites by Balloon

3. Mine for gems at the Sapphire Mine

At the Sapphire Mine near Phillipsburg, MT you and your family can experience the rush of finding gems hidden in the dirt, without the hard labor that usually goes along with the process.  They dig up the dirt, remove the big rocks and give you a bucket of dirt.  Yep dirt.  As you sift through this dirt you have the potential of finding sapphires, which you get to keep! After your gem fever as abated, check out Phillipsburg, MT. A small Montana town with lots to offer.  Take a stroll downtown and you will find candy shops, a local brewery, fishing information and gear and much more.

4. Take a hot air balloon Ride

What better way to take in the sites of Big Sky country than from up in the sky!  Hot air balloon rides get you up and away from the crowds and give you a spectacular view of the mountains that you just can’t get from a car or even on foot.

Float trip down the Madison

5. Float down a river

Near Bozeman, MT there are many beautiful rivers well known for their fishing and floating.  You can book a guide to take you either fishing if you want a mellow day on the water, or a whitewater rafting tour through large rapids for a good adrenaline rush.  Either way is a great way to experience southwest Montana and beat the summer heat in a cool mountain river.