Who doesn’t love a Montana summer? Montanan’s only get a good 3 to 4 months of warm weather to pack in all our extracurriculars. This summer began with a beautiful wedding, in Lolo, at the Dunrovin Ranch. The weather held up perfectly for the couple, and the venue captured families, friends, brews, and views on a quaint cottage. Of course, the following day was full rain and thunderstorms, which I hear, signals good luck to the new bride and her groom. I remember growing up in the valley and summer thunderstorms brewing during our hot summer days only to purge rain, thunder, and lightning, cooling off our evenings, and creating sunsets that need no filters. I can still see them in mind’s eye and am lucky to enjoy them this summer.
Montana offers so many varying concert venues you must enjoy at least once. In late June I was able to make it to Missoula to enjoy a concert at the Kettlehouse Amphitheater. Some friends and I arrived at 5 to set up camp on the lawn terrace. I was regretting wearing denim jeans in the sweltering weather. The 6 of us enjoyed the music and the wonderful adult slushies, laughs, and beautiful scenery. Then, the sun went down, and I was regretting not bringing an extra blanket. Bitterroot Brewery is another venue I frequent to take in Montana’s summer music. This is lively brewery with a small stage in the Northwest corner. They have a wonderful rotating menu with savory eats that pleases both adults and children. This is a family friendly affair. The band played their music, and covers of well known songs until close. We were all able to visit over our meal and catch up on life and upcoming events.
In the beginning of July, and friend and I were able to partake in a Darby Rodeo. If you haven’t, it’s a must see event. They have brand new stadium-ish seating on both sides of the rodeo ring. Depending on the time of day and the position of the sun you can either sit on the east or west side of the ring. If you know someone, you can get box to share with family and friends. There were food trucks with “baseball concession” food, and drinks from The 406 Bar. We enjoyed the rodeo and marveled at the athleticism of all the men and women that participated. In line, we met a gentleman that worked for Yellowstone. We invited him to meet us at the Sawmill for a night cap. Little did we know he would invite cast members of Yellowstone as well. I was introduced to many of the cast members whom were welcoming and very kind. I began to feel like a celebrity myself as cast members introduced my friends and I as “the local girls”.
One thing I really enjoy about Montana summers is the camping, hiking, fishing, lakes, and rivers that are readily available for public use. Paddle boarding is something that I took up 3 years ago, and have made it Como Lake several times to put to good use. I have yet to make it to the river or fishing. I’m always on the ready to enjoy some more day hikes to my secret spots. On the 4th of July, we gathered with 20 or so friends to one of my secret spots to enjoy the valley fireworks from above. This is one my favorite annual trips. We always bring too much food, and not enough brews. The scenery alone outdid any of the fireworks we saw that evening. We ended the evening camping under the the brilliant big sky.
I hope your Montana summer is off to a good start. There are only a couple months remaining. I know it can be hard to pack everything in. Cheers to you and your Montana summer from Alpine Realty.
