article and photos by Jamie Blotske

Fall is the season of transformation, when nature explodes into a spectacle of changing colors. m the rich reds and fiery oranges found in the towering trees to the golden yellows sprawled among the grassy fields, October is a great month to get out and bask in the beauty of the the perfect time for outdoor lovers to explore trails, hit the road for a scenic drive, or pull up a chair along the water’s edge to soak in and observe the changing landscape. Chasing colors might sound like work, but really, it’s the most wonderful way to slow down, take a deep breath, and reconnect with the world that surrounds us.

There is no need to chase colors beyond city limits. There are plenty of trails right here in the Magic City that will leave you speechless. Montana offers a brief window of time to take in the changing colors, so be sure to get out before the first hard frost, as it can significantly impact the bydisplay in prematurely ending the color show.

BILLINGS

RIVERFRONT PARK

This park offers wonderful walking trails, some paved and some dirt, that provide various vantage points to take in the golden hues of the cottonwood trees. You also have the option to walk or drive up to the shores of the Yellowstone River for a beautiful contrast of the rushing blue water against the bright autumn- colored leaves.

NORM’S ISLAND

Just west of Riverfront Park is the calm serenity that is Norm’s Island. This hotspot is known for dog walking and fall family photo sessions. It is also an ideal spot to stroll with a hot cup of coffee or hot chocolate in hand, while admiring the colorful canvas that Norm’s Island is guaranteed to paint.

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the nearby Montana Audubon Center, a 54-acre site along the Yellowstone River with ponds, trails, and access to the Yellowstone Greenway system. Surrounded by diverse habitats and wildlife, it’s an easy, beautiful spot for bonus leaf spotting.

PHIPPS OR ZIMMERMAN PARK

I’ve lumped these two together because it’s mostly about getting to high ground in order to see the colors of the city below. If you’d like to turn your walk into a more intense workout, I highly recommend the Phipps Park trail, which starts from the parking lot, winds back towards the rims, and then embarks on 432 feet of elevation gain. That will certainly get your heart pumping! You’ll appreciate the views from up top even more.

TWO MOON PARK

This park is also another excellent location for experiencing the vibrant fall colors of Billings. It is known for its beautiful, golden foliage, which is most prominent in early October. A wooded trail, to the north of the Yellowstone River, creates a storybook feel, like you’ve stepped into an enchanted forest. There is also plenty of space along the river’s shoreline to pull up a chair, sit back, and relax while taking in the seasonal sights.

Laurel

DUCK CREEK FISHING ACCESS

This quiet and quaint area of the Yellowstone River is south of I-90, as you head towards Laurel. While walking/hiking trails here are limited, it is still worth your time! Duck Creek is known to be a great spot for fall fishing, so grab some friends, load up your gear, and snag a brown trout, all while indulging in the richness of the river’s environment.

Columbus

STILLWATER RIVER

Growing up in Columbus, Stillwater Valley has a special place in my heart. The Stillwater River is much smaller than the Yellowstone, but it is anything but still! With several different fishing access sites off of Montana Hwy 78, from Columbus to Absarokee, you will be blown away by the variety that this area has to offer. With the Beartooth Mountains looming in the background, the Stillwater River is a great option for a fall camping trip, as well!

Red Lodge

SILVER RUN TRAILS

There is no need to summit a mountain top in order to see your favorite fall colors in Red Lodge. This mountain town has plenty of ways to experience the autumn season without having to lace up your heavy-duty hiking boots. I highly recommend exploring the Silver Run trails. There is the option for a more moderate hike, but the trails are overall a leisurely way to sight-see. You will come upon some creek crossings, shaded forest paths, and river views, making these trails an enjoyable way to chase the changing colors of fall.

Originally printed in the October 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

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