Last Updated: May 2026
From Gardiner, Montana at the north entrance of Yellowstone we made our way toward Glacier National Park. Along the way, we stopped in Livingston, Bozeman, and Missoula — and were treated to one of the most vivid double rainbows over the Yellowstone River we have ever seen.
Livingston
We stayed a half hour outside of Livingston in Paradise Valley — one of the most scenic stretches in all of Montana, with the Yellowstone River winding through a broad valley flanked by the Absaroka and Gallatin mountain ranges. Livingston’s downtown is small, revitalized, and full of character, with numerous shops, restaurants, and bars that attract artists, writers, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the country.
Yellowstone’s Edge RV Park
Our site was right next to the Yellowstone River with a spectacular view. We had 50-amp service, good water pressure, sewer hookups, and reliable internet. The best surprise was the homemade ice cream served in the office — a perfect treat after a long day on the road.
Each morning, Sandy had her coffee while Jake scanned the riverbanks for wildlife. We really enjoyed Paradise Valley and Livingston, though the famous Montana winds were a bit relentless during our stay.
Pray
We drove into the Gallatin National Forest on Mill Creek Road near the tiny community of Pray, Montana. A significant wildfire had swept through the area years before, and the forest was still in recovery — a landscape of standing silver snags interspersed with new growth telling a quiet story of renewal.
We loved getting away from the Yellowstone crowds on this quiet backcountry road. Along the way we spotted deer and a marmot, which Jake found particularly compelling.
The Indian Paintbrush were stunning — some of the most vivid red blooms we saw on the entire trip.
Chico
Just down the road from our campsite is the legendary Chico Hot Springs resort and saloon — a Montana institution since 1900. Good food, good drinks, and a rustic atmosphere that draws visitors from across the state.
Bozeman Hot Springs
Address: 81123 Gallatin Rd, Bozeman, MT 59718. Hours: Open daily; check the website for current pool schedules and seasonal hours. Admission: Day pass fees apply; RV park guests receive complimentary pool access. Phone: (406) 586-6492. Website: bozemanhotsprings.co.
The campground had all the usual amenities including good internet, daily breakfast, and complimentary use of the hot springs. We visited the pools, but they were packed — not quite the relaxing soak we had envisioned. The facility uses a daily water-change-and-bleach system rather than continuous chlorination. As a physician I am confident it is safe, but on a busy holiday weekend we opted to skip it.
A red-tailed hawk had a nest nearby with two juveniles learning to fly. We watched them for much of the afternoon — one of those unexpected wildlife moments that makes RV travel so rewarding.
A juvenile robin set up camp right next to ours — completely unfazed as it waited for its mother to bring worms. Even Jake kept a respectful distance.
Big Sky, Montana
It is a beautiful drive south from Bozeman along the Gallatin River canyon to Big Sky. The Big Sky Resort is massive — anchored by Lone Mountain rising to 11,166 feet — and is among the largest ski resorts in the United States by skiable acreage. NBC News co-anchor Chet Huntley was involved in its original development. The scenery is spectacular, though rapid condo development and a single two-lane road in and out means peak-season visits require some patience.
Palisades Falls
Address: Hyalite Canyon Rd, Bozeman, MT 59718 (Gallatin National Forest). Hours: Open year-round, dawn to dusk. Admission: Free. Phone: (406) 522-2520 (Gallatin National Forest Ranger District). Website: fs.usda.gov/gallatin.
Palisades Falls is reached via an easy 1.4-mile round-trip walk on a fully paved, accessible path through Hyalite Canyon — a wonderful way to spend the Fourth of July. The falls drop 80 feet into a rocky basin surrounded by dense conifer forest.
The trail was lined with columbine, lupine, bluebells, and Indian Paintbrush — a spectacular wildflower display that rivaled anything we had seen all summer.
Missoula — Jim and Mary’s RV Park
From Bozeman it was a few hours drive west to Missoula. Jim and Mary’s RV Park is tucked in the trees with large, spacious sites, 50-amp service, reliable internet, full sewer hookups, and a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere. The owners grow hundreds of flowers from seed in their own greenhouse — roses, pansies, and perennials displayed in beautiful beds throughout the grounds. Missoula is a vibrant university city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, and this park would be a wonderful base for an extended Montana stay.
Montana Winery
We stopped at a local winery near Missoula for a tasting. Their wines were quite good — grapes sourced from Washington State. The one unexpected detail: a marijuana dispensary next door meant the tasting room carried a distinctive aroma that made appreciating the bouquet a bit of a challenge. Unique ambiance, to say the least.
Garden of One Thousand Buddhas
Address: 34574 White Coyote Rd, Arlee, MT 59821 (Flathead Indian Reservation). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk. Admission: Free. Website: gardenofthousandbuddhas.org.
Located on the Flathead Indian Reservation near Arlee, the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is one of the most unexpected and beautiful spiritual sites in North America. Created by Tibetan Buddhist teacher Gochen Tulku Sang-ngag Rinpoche, the garden reflects the belief that we are living in the Fortunate Aeon — a rare age in which one thousand Buddhas will take birth, attain enlightenment, and teach the path to liberation. There were an extraordinary number of white statues, beautifully arranged across the landscaped grounds in a lotus-shaped design.
The grounds were impeccably maintained, with native wildflowers, iris, daisies, and columbine woven among the statues. A truly peaceful and memorable stop — well worth the short detour off US-93.
MacKenzie River
We made a stop in Polson, Montana, at the southern tip of Flathead Lake — the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, with the Mission Mountains rising dramatically to the east. MacKenzie River Pizza offered a warm atmosphere, friendly staff, excellent food, and a lovely view of the lake. Polson is the kind of place that makes you want to linger. We could absolutely see ourselves living here.
Practical Tips for Livingston, Bozeman & Missoula
Wind in Paradise Valley: The Livingston area is notoriously windy — gusts can exceed 60 mph. If you are driving a high-profile RV or towing, check the forecast before arriving and consider waiting out the worst days before moving camp.
Palisades Falls timing: The paved 1.4-mile round-trip trail is accessible from spring through fall and is a perfect outing for all fitness levels, including leashed dogs. Go early in the morning to beat afternoon crowds and get the best light on the falls.
Big Sky access: In summer, the Gallatin Canyon road to Big Sky (US-191) can back up significantly. Plan your visit for a weekday and arrive early. It is worth the drive for the scenery, but do not expect a quick in-and-out — the two-lane road is the only way in and out of town.
Garden of One Thousand Buddhas: Open to all visitors regardless of faith. It is a quiet, meditative space — dress respectfully and speak softly. Early morning visits are especially peaceful. The site sits on the Flathead Indian Reservation, so be mindful of local customs and posted signage.
Flathead Lake and Polson: If you have an extra day, Polson and Flathead Lake deserve an overnight stop. The lake is stunning, local dining is excellent, and cherry orchards line the western shore in season. The National Bison Range is also within easy reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yellowstone’s Edge RV Park a good base for exploring the area?
Yes — it is an excellent base. Sites along the Yellowstone River are stunning, and the location in Paradise Valley puts you within easy reach of Livingston, the Gallatin National Forest, Chico Hot Springs, and the north entrance to Yellowstone. Full hookups, reliable internet, and homemade ice cream in the office make it a top pick for this region.
Is Palisades Falls worth visiting?
Absolutely. It is one of the easiest scenic hikes in Montana — a paved, 1.4-mile round trip suitable for all fitness levels, including leashed dogs. The 80-foot falls are impressive, and the wildflower display along the trail is exceptional in late June and early July. It is free and operated by the Gallatin National Forest.
What should we know about visiting the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas?
Located near Arlee on the Flathead Indian Reservation, the garden is free and open daily from dawn to dusk. It is a living Buddhist monument with approximately 1,000 white statues arranged in a lotus-shaped garden. Dress respectfully and maintain a quiet, meditative tone. It is an extraordinary and unexpected find in rural western Montana — do not miss it if you are driving US-93.
Is Bozeman Hot Springs RV Park a good choice for RVers?
The campground is well-run with full hookups, good internet, and a convenient location between Bozeman and the Gallatin Canyon. The hot spring pools are the main draw, but they can be very crowded on holiday weekends. The campground itself is a solid choice regardless of whether you use the pools.
How far is Big Sky from Bozeman?
Big Sky is about 45 miles south of Bozeman via US-191 through Gallatin Canyon — roughly a one-hour drive. The canyon scenery along the Gallatin River is beautiful and worth the trip on its own. Note that the road is two lanes the entire way, so plan ahead if you are towing a large rig.
What makes Missoula worth a stop?
Missoula is a lively university city — home of the University of Montana — with a vibrant downtown, excellent restaurants, craft breweries, and an outdoor culture centered on the Clark Fork River. Jim and Mary’s RV Park is one of the nicest we have stayed at anywhere, with beautifully landscaped grounds, spacious sites, and a wonderfully quiet setting. It makes an ideal base for exploring western Montana.
