Big Sky

• Ousel Falls Park Trail

  Walk the well-graded path to a thunderous waterfall; it is an ideal introduction to the local Gallatin National Forest.

• Lone Mountain Lookout

  Utilize the resort lift system to reach high-altitude viewpoints for panoramic vistas of the Madison Range.

Allow 30 to 45 minutes for local transfers between the Meadow and Mountain villages.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer; descend from high ridges by midday.

• Gallatin River Pullouts

  Observe the river's path through the narrow canyon where 'A River Runs Through It' was filmed.

• Storm Castle Peak Trailhead

  Consider this nearby hike for views of the canyon winding toward Bozeman, checking for seasonal mud closures.

Allow 1.5 hours for round-trip travel along US 191; watch for wildlife and heavy truck traffic.

River levels vary significantly with spring snowmelt; check with local outfitters for safety.

• West Yellowstone Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

  Visit this accredited facility to learn about regional apex predators before heading toward the park.

• Madison River Valley

  Drive into the park's west entrance to view the meadows where elk and bison are frequently spotted.

Allow 2 to 3 hours for the round trip to the West Entrance, plus time for park lines.

Check the NPS website for road closures; the West Entrance is closed to cars in early winter.