Photo by AS Photography

June 2025 Editor's Note: Explore More

June 2025

by Stephanie Toews, Executive Editor

MONTANA MOMENTS

“And just like that, we’re on our way to everywhere.”

-EMILY LORD

June is always a whirlwind for our family, but this year is shaping up to be the wildest yet. Between graduation, a milestone anniversary, Father’s

Day, two birthdays, and a family vacation, we’ll be moving non-stop. Still, as I’ve been working through this month’s articles, I’m more excited than ever to soak up every ounce of fun the season has to offer. I’ve even started a summer bucket list in my Notes app. We’re coming for you, American Prairie, Greycliff Mill, and Tippett Rise! It’s safe to say this summer looks like one for the books.

We’ve discovered that some of the best adventures are closer than you think. Our love for road trips was born back in 2020, when our family spent the summer exploring Montana (and a bit of Wyoming), one day trip at a time. Virginia City, Lewis & Clark Caverns, Cody, Natural Bridge Falls, and the Madison River; each stop showed us that we don’t have to travel far to create unforgettable memories. Those simple adventures reminded us that unplugging, feeling the wind in our hair, and trading routine for new surroundings can do a world of good for the body, mind, and soul.

Many of those memories were made with my husband behind the wheel, leading the way, snacks packed, music playing, and laughter filling the car. This month, we’re celebrating the dads who show up with strength, humor, and love through every season. Fathers play an irreplaceable role in our lives; fixing what’s broken, cheering from the sidelines, offering quiet wisdom, and delivering perfectly timed dad jokes. Here’s to honoring them well, with time together, adventures made, and memories created.

And what better time to make those memories than right now? June in Montana is pure bliss; school’s out, summer’s in full swing, and this issue is packed with everything you need to roam, relax, and revel in the season. Whether you’ve got a full itinerary or just a weekend to play with, we’ve curated ideas to help you live your best local summer. From hidden gems to classic stops, there’s no excuse for boredom. We’ve even included tips for packing the perfect picnic, because nothing says summer quite like sharing good food under the open sky. So grab your shades, fuel up the car, and let’s hit the road. Thanks for taking us along for the ride!

Happy Father’s Day and Happy Summer!

Love,

Originally printed in the June 2025 issue of Simply Local Magazine

Read this article in the digital issue of Simply Local here!

Stephanie Toews

Stephanie is finding joy in the journey of faith, marriage, motherhood, and friendships. Writing is her therapy and one of her favorite creative outlets.

Close to Home, Far from Ordinary: Day Trips from Billings

Montana and Wyoming are packed with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture that don’t require a week off work to experience.

Secrets to a Stunning Lawn

There aren’t many things better than summer days spent in the yard with children and pets running through the sprinklers.

Where Art Embraces Nature A Day Trip to Tippet Rise

In Montana, solitude is easy to find. It spills across the plains, climbs on top of the mountains, and runs through the long expanses

How to Pack the Perfect Summer Picnic

There is something irresistibly charming about a picnic. Maybe it is the way fresh air stimulates the appetite, or how a humble sandwich tastes much better when eaten under an open sky in the company of people we love.