Looking for ways to get out this autumn while waiting for the snow to accumulate on the ski hill? Look no further than Norris Hot Springs and its surroundings!
Travel the backroads, explore, fish, hike and get a compelling taste of Southwest Montana all within 35 miles of Norris Hot Springs. Start the day with adventure and wind down in the afternoon with a relaxing soak, good food, a wide variety of curated beverages and live music on weekends.
Madison County tends to be drier than the Bozeman area, so hiking trails are often more accessible during the muddy shoulder season. Visit Madison Buffalo Jump State Park and take a step back in time to imagine when buffalo roamed freely. Short hikes, great views and a glimpse of Native American culture await.
Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park, just 25 miles from the Hot Springs, offers miles of hiking trails ranging in distance and elevation gain. Although the caverns are closed during the winter, the Visitor Center has special winter hours.
Bear Trap Canyon on the Madison River, just a few miles downstream from Norris, offers some of the best fishing in Montana and a lovely, accessible hike along the scenic river.
And if you are looking for adventure even closer to Norris, check out Revenue Flats, just up the hill from the intersection of the Norris Road (MT Highway 84) with US Highway 287. Follow the dirt road up from the Sinclair filling station up to this land of enchantment.
A soak in the relaxing mineral springs at Norris Hot Springs feels great after a day of being in the wilderness. Treat yourself to a delicious snack or meal made with local, organic ingredients including vegetables from the on-site garden. Local craft beers and a well-curated wine list pair with everything from nachos to chef’s specials.
Then stay for an evening of “Live from the Dome” music featured on the Poolside Stage every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night from 7–9:30pm.
A crowd favorite returns to the Poolside Stage on Friday, October 25th – The Lucky Valentines. Their music has been described by fans as “stirring” Americana, “straight from the heart.” Married in 2010, they have been playing music for the whole of their life together. Crafting songs rooted in honest, raw emotion and blending sounds from alt-country, rock n’ roll, indie and folk, they span themes of joy and pain in the face of life’s trials. They borrow inspiration from their own experience, observation, and the beautiful, lonesome landscape and history of Northern Montana. Their independent release Lion in the Garden is a collection of songs that explore betrayal, loss and joy.
Weston Lewis is back on Saturday, October 26th at 7pm. Lewis plays with a number of local bands, solo performances, and as a sit-in lead guitarist for artists including The Andrew Hand Band, John Sherrill, The Electric Sunday, Lang Termes, Mathias, and MOTH. His solo sets are comprised mostly of acoustic rock covers and some of his original songs. In band settings, he likes to play funk, jazz, country and more.
Douglas Jennings Barrett closes out the weekend on Sunday, October 27th. His live performances are marked by a spectacular combination of thought-provoking lyrics coupled with engaging melodies and rhythmic guitar playing.
For operating hours, menus and the complete music calendar, visit www.norrishotsprings.com. Follow on Facebook and Instagram (@NorrisHotSprings).
