Help for planning an early to mid-May trip

Question

Our son is graduating from college in May and asked for a grad trip to Montana. We are first timers to the state, flying into Bozeman on May 7 and leaving May 12, scrambling to put together a fun trip. He is an Eagle scout and wanted a trip to "be outdoors and fish and hike" and we are happy to oblige! There will be 6 of us, and we've looked briefly at Montage Big Sky and Silver Bow Club in Divide. We would like to visit more than one place, be outside, and do some shopping (me, not our son...LOL). Can anyone help us with advice on lodging and activities with this broad request? Looking at this forum makes me more confused because everything sounds great but we don't want to be in the car the whole trip. Thank you so much in advance!

Answer

First off, congratulations to your son! Montana is an amazing place for outdoor adventures, and you’ll find a perfect mix of activities for hiking, fishing, and even some shopping. Here’s a plan that balances outdoor adventures with some downtime in scenic towns, so you won’t be in the car the whole trip.

1. Start in Bozeman (May 7 - 9)

Lodging: Bozeman - There are several great places to stay in Bozeman. The Element Bozeman is a nice modern hotel with spacious rooms and a good location near downtown. For a more rustic option, check out The Riverside Cottage on the Gallatin River, perfect for outdoor lovers.
Activities:
- Explore downtown Bozeman, which offers a great mix of shopping and local art galleries. There are plenty of coffee shops, boutiques, and outdoor stores like Montana Troutfitters for fishing gear.
- Visit the nearby Gallatin National Forest for easy hiking. Try the Ousel Falls Trail or the Hyalite Canyon for some great beginner hikes and stunning views.
- Fishing: Head to the Gallatin River, which is just outside Bozeman, for some fly fishing. You can rent gear and book a half-day fishing trip if you'd prefer a guide.

2. Head to Big Sky (May 9 - 11)

Lodging: Big Sky - The Montage Big Sky is an excellent choice for a luxurious stay, offering stunning mountain views and a full range of outdoor activities. If you’re looking for something more casual, you can check out Big Sky Resort Village Center which has a more family-friendly vibe and is close to shops and restaurants.
Activities:
- Enjoy the Big Sky Resort and nearby Yellowstone National Park for hiking and wildlife viewing. In May, you can find great trails that lead to scenic overlooks and waterfalls.
- If your son enjoys fly fishing, the Madison River is famous for its excellent fishing spots. You can book a guided fly fishing trip with Big Sky Angler.
- Shopping: There are a few small shops in Big Sky Town Center for local goods, and you can explore the area's restaurants. If you're in the mood for shopping, you might also find interesting stores in nearby Bozeman.

3. Ending in Missoula (May 11 - 12)

Lodging: Missoula - Missoula is a beautiful town surrounded by mountains and the Clark Fork River. Stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Missoula, located near the river and offering easy access to downtown.
Activities:
- Explore the Rattlesnake National Recreation Area for more hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. The Rattlesnake Falls is a popular destination.
- Fishing: Head to the Clark Fork River for some local fishing, or stop by one of the nearby lakes like Seeley Lake for a peaceful day of fishing and relaxation.
- Shopping: Missoula has a charming downtown with unique shops, cafes, and art galleries. Be sure to check out the Missoula Farmers Market if you’re there on a Saturday morning.

Key Considerations:

Drive time: From Bozeman to Big Sky is only about 1 hour, so you won’t be in the car long. Big Sky to Missoula is around 3.5 hours, which is a beautiful drive through Montana’s stunning landscapes.
Fishing: Since your son is an Eagle Scout, you might want to consider booking guided fishing trips to maximize your chances of catching something and enjoying the experience fully.

This itinerary provides a good balance of outdoor activities (hiking, fishing) with time for relaxation and shopping in small, charming towns. It will give you a taste of the stunning landscapes of Montana without spending too much time driving from place to place.

Have a fantastic trip! Montana is truly beautiful, and your son will love the outdoors there!