Montana’s Newest Park Is A Must-See For Spring And Summer Fun

We're lucky we get to experience all four seasons here in Montana. However, we can all admit there's something special about the time of year when the sun comes out, the wildflowers bloom, and everything seems to come back to life. As spring begins the slow transition into summer, it's time to get outside and enjoy it.

In the summer of 2019, a brand new park opened in Bozeman. And on a warm, sunny day, there's really no better place to be, especially if you have little ones in the family.

Bozeman's Story Mill Community Park is located at 698 Bridger Drive, at the confluence of Bozeman Creek and the East Gallatin River.

At 60 acres, this is Bozeman's biggest park by far, and there's truly something for everyone here.

The park was a community effort, relying on the help of donors from Montana and around the country who gave their time, skills, and money to the cause.

This place is the result of the ideas of over 450 community members. Everything turned out exceptionally well, and the park is now a local point of pride.

Story Mill Community Park has restored rivers, abundant birds and wildlife, and plenty of places to kick back and relax.

The idea was that locals would have one distinct spot to get some exercise, play, relax, and reconnect with nature.

Here you'll find over three miles of walking trails, a climbing boulder, and an enclosed dog park for your four-legged friends to roam.

There's even an open-air hillside amphitheater for live performances.

Children absolutely adore the on-site playground, which includes state-of-the-art equipment.

The treehouses, swings, and unique climbing features will surely keep them busy.

Would the little ones in your life be brave enough to give this slide a try?

Perhaps you can demonstrate first and show them how it's done.

The park’s 40-acre, award-winning nature sanctuary is truly remarkable, including 15 acres of wetlands to observe birds and other wildlife.

There's also a large community garden here, and some local youth organizations have been growing their own produce to learn more about where food comes from.

The park got its name from the historic flour mill on-site, which was owned and operated by Nelson Story.

Nelson Story was an early Bozeman resident and an inspiration for the classic novel Lonesome Dove. We think Mr. Story would be pretty pleased by this park.

Have you ever visited this beloved local park? Share your experience with us in the comments.