To answer this question; Almost. This winter in Bozeman has been a “long” one. Ski season was great this year and in some places still is if you are willing to walk a little ways. The last few winters have been relatively mild, making this year feel like it is dragging on. The temperatures during the days are starting to warm up a bit. A few 70 degree days that have been tempting us for summertime activities. If you are planning on spending some time in this area, hope for good weather, but bring warm clothes (and a rain coat) and expect some precipitation and cooler temperatures.

This doesn’t mean that fun cannot be had this time of year. Most of us still feel this is one of the best times to be in Bozeman. Trails are drying out, flowers are blooming, and trees are budding. Wildlife are out and about almost everywhere and the tourism crowds are still relatively minimal. If you are looking for some things to do this time of year here are some of my favorites.

If the weather permits, and you have a warm sleeping bag, camping at lower elevations can make for some relaxing days away from the hustle and bustle of our “big city”. Look for elevations in between 5000 and 6500 feet. You will usually be able to find a place that is dry and will put you close to a river or creek while enjoying the mountains.

Get out and fish for a day and go on a hike. The river’s are filling up with dirty water but that doesn’t mean fishing is a waste of time. Looking for slow moving water can usually produce some good numbers of fish. The rainbows should be aggressive during their spawning season, while the brown trout are always close behind looking to snack on stray eggs. Searching for Morel mushrooms and fallen elk antlers is always a fun game to play while out hiking around. And bring your phone or camera for bears, deer, birds, fox, bison, antelope and more are all moving around enjoying the warmth that late spring brings in this area. You never know what you might see out there…