Even Bozeman’s welcome sign is beautiful!  And while you’re there, take notice of the electrical boxes around town.  Many have been wrapped in vinyl masterpieces by local artists, making each beautifully unique.

The lavishly decorated Ellen Theater was built by the sons of one of Bozeman’s founders.  Named after their family matriarch, it’s been restored and now hosts musical acts, plays, comedians, and world-renowned performers.

House Rock in the Gallatin River.  If you think this looks serene, head downstream about three miles.  There you’ll find the bend in the river made famous by the blockbuster film A River Runs Through It.

Montana hillsides are covered in flowers during the Spring and Summer months.  It makes the already scenic hikes that much more stunning.

The annual Sweet Pea Festival occurs on the first weekend in August.  It’s a fantastic collection of talented artists, delicious food trucks, and delicate flowers, all kicked-off with a hometown parade.

Speaking of a hometown parade, does it get any more patriotic than this?

There are countless hiking trails around Bozeman.  I recommend the trail near Hyalite Reservoir to Champagne Falls for its lush greenery and many other waterfalls.  These wilderness adventures are always more exciting with my favorite hiking buddy, my dad (who clearly has a passion for photography too).

Grotto Falls is a moderate 2.4 miles up from the Champagne Falls trailhead.  It’s the perfect spot to stop for a snack!

Speaking of Hyalite Reservoir!  The snow capped mountains, dense evergreens, and endless sunshine on the water are a perfect backdrop for an alpine afternoon!

I’ve always had a thing for classic cars (which is why Cuba was such a dream come true!)  This is one I remember from when I was little.  Like  a fine wine, it seems to just get better with age.

There is an abundance of wildlife in Montana.  Elk, bears, eagles, even wolves!  Plus, with the proximity to Yellowstone National Park there’s even the opportunity to see wild bison in their natural environment!

Head to Montana State University and enjoy a football game in the fresh mountain air.  Go Cats!

Another hike just outside Bozeman is to the iconic college ‘M’ overlooking the city.  There are two trails to reach it.  The first is a moderate 1.7 mile hike past wildflowers and is easy enough to walk with a stroller.  The second is a half mile trail that I’d rate as turbo difficult (especially prior to sunrise).  It’s nearly straight up with loose rocks perfect for slipping to your death.  This is me being thankful I made it to the top to ever see another sunrise again.  (Kidding… kind of).

If you continue up the mountain from the ‘M’ you’ll reach the summit of Mount Baldy.  The trail is part of the Ridge Run course that athletes have competed in for over 30 years.  The 19.65 mile course gains over 6,800 feet in elevation and has been finished in just over 3 hours by some of the fastest.  My legs hurt just thinking about it!

Just striking a pose while photographing the wild west facade of Virginia City.  The main street is dotted with vintage candy stores, restaurants, and even includes a playhouse where you can enjoy a show.

A former gold mining ghost town, Virginia City was restored in the 1940’s and is now designated as a National Historic Landmark.  It feels like you’re walking through a Clint Eastwood movie as you stroll through the town.

Virginia City was actually the capital of Montana for over 100 years until it was moved to Helena in 1875.  You can get a sense of what it was like back then as over half the buildings in town were built before 1900.

No filter or editing needed here!  Sunsets in Montana are some of the most stunning I’ve ever seen.  Not surprising for a place known as Big Sky Country.

Another classic truck because, you know… I can’t seem to get enough.  With so many around town it looks like a Norman Rockwell painting.

The basalt cliffs at Palisade Falls remind me of the Svartifoss waterfall in Iceland.  Bonus – the path to Palisade Falls is short and fully paved, so it’s easy for folks of all fitness levels to reach.

A misty morning above the Madison River shot by my talented photog father.  For a wet and wild experience, rent a raft and float down the river during warm summer months.