A Local’s Guide to Montana Fall Foliage
When people think of the best places to see fall foliage, their brain often jumps straight to the east coast, specifically New England. And it makes sense – the winding country roads that are draped in autumn leaves, covered bridges around every corner, and the picturesque small towns lined with historic homes make it easy to see why people romanticize a New England fall.
While there’s no debate that the east coast is a great destination for the fall season, if you live in or near Montana, you don’t always have to travel across the country to see that kind of fall scenery.
Montana puts on a show of its own this time of year when the air starts getting crisp again, the cottonwoods turn gold, and the mountains start to hint at winter with a light dusting of snow. 🗻
In this blog post, I’m covering some of the best ways to experience Montana fall foliage in and around Billings, whether you’re wanting a quiet afternoon walk close to home or a scenic weekend drive.
Best Local Spots for Fall Foliage in Billings, MT
If you want to stay close to home, while still soaking in the scenic views, there are plenty of local spots in Billings that burst into yellows and oranges during peak season! 🍂
Riverfront Park
Riverfront Park is one of Billings’ most beloved spots year-round, but it’s especially stunning in the fall. The trails wind along the Yellowstone River, surrounded by cottonwoods that turn the most beautiful shade of gold in October. It’s an easy place to stroll, walk your pup, or bring a picnic and enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by color.
Poly Vista Park
A lesser-known gem on the west end, Poly Vista Park has a peaceful walking trail that winds through open fields dotted with trees that change beautifully with the season. It’s a great spot for photos or a quick evening walk when the sunset hits just right over the Rimrocks.
Pioneer Park
If you’re looking for classic fall colors without leaving town, Pioneer Park is a must. The trees that line the walking paths put on quite a show in late September through October, and the park’s open layout makes it easy to see the canopy glow as the light changes throughout the day.
Zimmerman Park
Zimmerman Park is located in the heart of Billings and is a local favorite to spot some of the best views in Billings. Here you’ll find easy access to the Rimrocks with hiking and biking trails, picnic spots, and safe paths for an autumn stroll with your furry friend!
The Best Fall Scenic Drives and Day Trips from Billings
If you’re up for a drive and want to make a day of your fall adventures, there’s a few nearby destinations that really show off Montana’s fall foliage at its best! 🚗
Paradise Valley
First up is of course Paradise Valley! Just south of Livingston, the drive along Highway 89 is lined with cottonwoods, ranch land, and snow-dusted peaks in the distance.
You can make a day of it with stops in Livingston for lunch and maybe even a soak at Chico Hot Springs afterward. Here’s a full guide to the area with restaurant recommendations and ways to fill your day!
Red Lodge
If you want a shorter trip but still want mountain views, head to Red Lodge for the day. The town itself is full of charm and surrounded by aspen and cottonwood trees that make the whole area glow in autumn.
You can grab coffee at Hidden Basin or lunch at Red Lodge Pizza Co, then take a short hike nearby like Silver Run Trails or Basin Creek Lakes to catch more color.
If you’re looking for more recs for the Red Lodge area, here’s a roundup for it too!
Cooke City Drive (via Beartooth Highway)
This is hands-down one of the most breathtaking drives in Montana. Starting from Red Lodge and heading toward Cooke City, the Beartooth Highway takes you through a high-elevation landscape of alpine lakes, evergreens, and bright bursts of yellow aspens.
The views are incredible, but keep in mind that snow can close the highway early in the season, so check conditions before you go! But honestly, even if you only make it partway up, the colors are worth the drive.
Big Timber and the Boulder River Valley
Lastly, about an hour and a half from Billings, the Boulder River Valley is pure Montana in the fall featuring winding rivers, towering cliffs, and golden cottonwoods everywhere you look.
Along the way, you can stop in Big Timber for coffee, then take Highway 298 south toward Natural Bridge Falls for fall foliage views that are incredibly unique to Montana!
Overall, whether you’re exploring right in Billings or taking a scenic drive through the surrounding valleys, fall in Montana is truly something special.
Sure, it may not be the East Coast, but our fall season has its own magic with the bright yellow cottonwoods along the Yellowstone River, the fiery aspens near Red Lodge, and the sweeping vistas of Paradise Valley that make every drive something to see.
So grab your favorite road trip snack, map out a weekend adventure, or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll close to home. Montana fall foliage is fleeting, but while it’s here, it’s meant to be savored!
And if you’re looking for more resources to enjoy the fall season in Montana, we’ve got you covered: