Four Season Fun in Livingston, Montana

From the mountains to the monstrous trout, Montana has endless possibilities. Just north of Yellowstone National Park lies the lovable town of Livingston, an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise in every season. While many parts of Montana deal with harsh winters, Livingston is just one of those “banana belt” towns; a place where the sun shines most days of the year and somehow it doesn’t feel bitter cold on snowy days. Year-round, travelers will appreciate the slew of art that Livingston has to offer. There are 17 galleries and counting around town, plus live theater and music on frequent rotation. For the foodies, casual to fine dining is in abundance in Livingston with over 20 restaurants to choose from!

Summer

Ah, that sweet summertime. The river is raging–perfect for rafting, and yet flows on the main Yellowstone River are prime for fly fishing. Whether you’re seeking solitude on the river or perhaps the help of a guide, head into a fly shop in town for the best intel on fishing near Livingston. Hiking and mountain biking in the nearby hills is a great way to escape the summer heat and the views over Paradise Valley below are simply stunning. Seriously though, a valley doesn’t get a name like that for just any reason. Don’t forget to pack the bear spray for your summer adventures!

The largest rodeo in the state of Montana takes place in the first week of July. Simultaneously, Livingston hosts a grand Independence Day parade (2019 marks the parade’s 93rd anniversary!).

Fall

Enjoy a lot of the same summertime activities, but soak in the golden, rusty autumn colors. Livingston boasts one of the finest fall color displays in the state with their high density of cottonwood trees lining the banks of the Yellowstone River. Sportsmen flock to Livingston in the fall as the season for elk and deer hunting opens, and fly fishing remains exceptional. Camping winds down in the Livingston area, however many campgrounds remain open until the beginning-middle of October.

Winter

Piles of fluffy snow might be around town, but the temperatures are quite bearable in this part of the state. Playing outside remains one of Livingston’s greatest pastimes, with numerous snowshoe and cross-country ski trails near town. Additionally, travelers have access to a proper downhill ski resort within in a 30 minute drive and endless snowmobiling options. At the end of the day, cruise over to the historic Chico Hot Springs and soak in the natural mineral spring pools. Other unique winter activities in Paradise Valley include a carriage sleigh ride dashing through the snow, or even a winter tour into Yellowstone National Park. Snowcoaches with oversize tires cruise into the national park from Gardiner, allowing for exclusive glimpses of Yellowstone in the wintertime.

Spring

Snow melts in the mountains, giving way to early season fishing on the Yellowstone River. Though the valley is quiet, it’s a very exciting time to fish since the trout are extra hungry, and ready to attack a dry fly! Action around Livingston really ramps up in June with events around town and the opening of the farmer’s market.