Norris bustling through sunny summer months For returning visitors who may not have visited Norris for a bit, things have indeed changed at the historic hot spring property. Live music takes over the Norris Hot Springs Poolside Stage every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7pm
Norris Hot Springs is used to being at capacity when the temperatures drop and the snow flies. There isn’t a better place to be than hot water on a cold day, as Montanans know. But a hot springs on a warm day – how does that work?
“We’re packed,” said owner Holly Heinzmann one afternoon after harvesting fresh salad greens and vegetables for the grill from the onsite garden and greenhouse. “This is the time of year when things typically slow down – but not this year. Maybe it’s the extended hours or the campground, or maybe people are just getting used to coming out here. Whatever it is, we are booming.”
For returning visitors who may not have visited Norris for a bit, things have indeed changed at the historic hot spring property. The solid fences and wire that surrounded the pool have been replaced with fencing that keeps the wildlife out while incorporating the scenic beauty of the surrounding wetland. Trees (over 800) have also been planted to offer shade and a windbreak from the winds flying through the Madison River Valley.
The small metal building that served as a check-in spot for guests – as well as a place where Doris, the former owner, could sell her unique rattlesnake jewelry and microwave pizzas – has been replaced by the No LoOse Dogs Saloon, serving organic meals from 10am–10pm daily, closed Tuesday. The 50 Mile Grill opens at 5pm during the week and at noon on Saturdays and Sundays, serving locally sourced food from within a 50 mile radius – including grass fed beef, chicken breasts, trout, lamb and homegrown vegetables on the grill. Salads and pasta specials and desserts have been added. You can still order a pizza, but now it’s on an organic crust with mostly homegrown toppings, prepared using a rotating pizza cooker (no more microwaves).
The Saloon offers wine and beer, featuring a long list of microbrews from Madison River Brewing Company, among others. A comprehensive selection of wines options are also available for your dining pleasure.
Live music takes over the Poolside Stage every Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 7pm.
Mandy Rowden performs on Sunday, August 5th. Rowden is an Austin-based singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who’s been compared to Lucinda Williams, Kim Richey, and Stevie Nicks, to name a few. Her latest album, 1000 Miles, released in 2016. In review of the album, The Austin Chronicle suggested, “An Americana Sheryl Crow? Mandy Rowden has the talent, chops, and charisma to go there.”
Tom Kirwan follows on Friday, August 10th. He performs a blend of folk country and Americana. Tom’s songs evoke nostalgia of long-ago dreams and people, while weaving stories of human longing both past and present.
San Francisco-based musician Amy Obenski is next up on Saturday, August 11th. Known for her song “Carousel,” airing on hit TV show Grey’s Anatomy, and lyrics about the experience of being human, her music has a way of connecting with pretty much anyone on a deeply personal level. She’s compared frequently to Carole King or Norah Jones. And to describe her voice, it’s common to hear words like “pure,” “haunting” and “mesmerizing.” She uses a looper during her performances, recording up to ten-part harmonies on stage with multiple instruments, and beat boxing atop her own songs.
Christy Hays closes the weekend on Sunday, August 12th. “Like Lucinda Williams in a Carhartt jacket, Christy Hays works rugged metaphors into emotionally charged country folk,” wrote a reviewer for The Austin Chronicle. Hays’ music has folk and country tinges, thoughtfully penned stories and a full band sound that’s both driving alt country and moody folk rock. Compared to Brandi Carlile, Lucinda Williams, Rhett Miller, Kathleen Edwards and Patty Griffin, Hays’ third full-length River Swimmer is available now.
Dan Henry heads out on Friday, August 17th. The Montana native is a singer/songwriter with a unique vocal style coupled with acoustic guitar and bluesy harmonica. He’s driven by a blues influence, but covers a wide range of music from folk and rock to reggae, and so much more.
Lang Termes brings the entertainment on Saturday, August 18th. Lang’s vocal style ranges from mellow folk ballads to growling boogie blues. His style of songwriting – both original music and lyrics – comes deep from the heart, or in some cases, bubbles up from his whimsical sense of irony. Lang’s selection of covers ranges from early country blues to the full gamut of contemporary classics. A few of his biggest influences include Muddy Waters, Woody Guthrie, Bruce Springsteen, Eddie Vedder, and Townes Van Zandt.
Five Letter Word takes the Poolside Stage on Sunday, August 19th. The Portland-based folk trio plays harmony-driven music ranging from blues to bluegrass and beyond.
Norris Hot Springs welcomes visitors after a float on the river, day hike, or for a respite after a long car ride. Bicyclists are always welcome for free soaks. The water is cooled with a system of sprayers to keep it comfortable on even the hottest days. And as the sun goes down, a soak in the natural mineral spring while enjoying fine food, a libation and live acoustic music makes us remember what we love about summer in Montana. For more information, visit www.norrishotsprings.com. Norris is located 24 miles west of Bozeman near the intersection of Hwy 287 and Route 84. They’re open from 10am–10pm every day but Tuesday. •
