What to Do in Big Timber, Montana for Big Fun

Big Timber is a small town that’s big on charm in South Central Montana, surrounded by the beauty of the Crazy Mountains and the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Travelers come here for quaint shops, tasty local food, and exciting outdoor adventures. I loved the area’s welcoming residents, who were happy to suggest nearby things to do or chat about life in their beautiful state. For friendly vibes and stunning views, take a look at what to do in Big Timber, MT!

This story is brought to you in partnership with Visit Montana. It is based on my family’s adventures in the Big Sky State.

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Where to Shop

Start your visit with a stroll through Big Timber’s darling downtown along the main thoroughfare, McLeod Street. If you hang out long enough, you will indeed see trucks piled with big timbers from cottonwood trees roll through town. Pop into what strikes your fancy, but be sure to check out these must-see shops.

Thistle Creek Mercantile

The upscale Thistle Creek Mercantile sells products that reflect the spirit of Big Sky Country. The gift shop prides itself on its Montana-made items, from clothing to home décor. (Look for an adorable little book-lending library out front!)

Little Timber Quilts & Candy

Growing up, my mom taught sewing classes, so a visit to Little Timber Quilts & Candy with the bolts of fabrics felt nostalgic for me, as did the selection of old-fashioned candies and handmade chocolates. The store’s eye candy and literal candy make a fun combo.

Earth Wise General Store

Located just a block off Big Timber’s main strip, the chic Earth Wise General Store reminded me of the Rose Apothecary of Schitt’s Creek fame! It is a haven for environmentally conscious shoppers, offering locally grown and organic foods. Shoppers can also stock up on refillable personal care and household items. Purchase made-to-order deli sandwiches to-go at the counter at the back of the store.

The Fort

Going to The Fort is a trip! It’s packed with a curious array of products, from baby items and children’s toys to outdoor gear, firearms, and liquor. This is a good spot to pick up affordable Montana souvenirs, too, including huckleberry syrups, jams, and other treats. Located 1.7 miles from downtown Big Timber, you’ll need to hop in the car for a short drive to reach this unusual shop.

Things to Do

From local attractions to popular activities in the great outdoors, let’s explore what to do in Big Timber and nearby.

Crazy Mountain Museum

The Crazy Mountain Museum is so-named because of its proximity to the Crazy Mountain Range, not because the museum’s contents are cuckoo! This attraction is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Montana’s Sweet Grass County.

Exhibits showcase the area’s early settlers and Norwegian heritage, Big Timber’s rodeo traditions, and the area’s wool and mining industries. One of the most popular displays is a restored one-room schoolhouse depicting rural education in 1912.

What fascinated me most was a miniature reproduction of Big Timber as it looked in 1907, just before a major fire in 1908. This Cobblestone City exhibit was meticulously crafted by a local artist and historian named Jack Hines. 

Horseback Trail Ride

Giddy up to explore the majestic Crazy Mountains in Sweet Grass County on horseback. Affectionately called The Crazies, this isolated mountain range stretches nearly 40 miles (63 km) between Yellowstone and Musselshell Rivers. I can’t think of a better way to experience the beauty of this range than from atop a horse on a trail ride.

My family saddled up with Sweet Grass Ranch for a day ride. Whether you’re an experienced equestrian or a beginner, riders of all levers are welcome. Typically, kids must be age 6+, but there are wrangler-led pony rides for children aged 4-6 who are overnight guests at the ranch.

Natural Bridge Falls

You’ll be captivated by Natural Bridge Falls in Custer Gallatin National Forest, 27 miles (43 km) south of Big Timber. Named for a natural rock bridge that collapsed in 1988, the 100-foot falls remain a spectacular sight.

The Upper Trail at Natural Bridge Falls is the easiest nature trail, perfect for travelers with strollers or wheelchairs. Along this short hike, you can read interpretive signs about the area’s natural beauty and history, enjoy views of the Boulder River, and catch a glimpse of the falls. Easily accessed picnic tables are available, too.

My family wanted a closer encounter with the falls, so we hiked the Canyon Bottom Access Trail. This path requires sturdy hiking shoes with good tread due to steep and slippery sections. Our efforts were rewarded with the mesmerizing sight and thunderous sound of the waterfall plunging into the pool below. No matter how you plan to explore, I advise bringing insect repellant, bear spray, and unscented sunblock.

Lions Club Park

An easy walk from the heart of the historic downtown, Lions Club Park is a fun place to play. The 5.7-acre (2.3-hectare) park features a public pool, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds. Enjoy a local farmers market at the park every Friday during summer, too.

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic tables. Then, go for a stroll along the paved paths. Best of all for kids is the darling Old West-themed playground with plenty of slides, swings, and climbing structures.

Yellowstone River

If visiting Montana in summer, you can cool off with a swim in the Yellowstone River at one of the many fishing access sites near Big Timber. Otter Creek Fishing Access is just a couple miles north of town on Highway 191. Open year-round, there’s a boat launch and camping access.

Big Timber Outfitters

For additional outdoor adventures in and near Big Timber, hire a local outfitter to help you fulfill your Montana dreams.

• Absaroka-Beartooth Outfitters provides guided wilderness trips for hunting, fishing, photo safaris, and more.
• Big Timber Fly Fishing specializes in fly fishing on the Yellowstone River, Boulder River, Stillwater River, and private creeks and ponds.

What to Eat & Drink

For a small town, Big Timber boasts big flavors at its local restaurants. Many eateries are closed on Sundays, so if visiting Big Timber on the weekend, check the hours before you go.

The Coffee Stop

With seating indoors plus a handy drive-through, this coffee shop makes a good choice for hungry vacationers looking for a quick bite. Open seven days per week, come to The Coffee Stop in the morning for a breakfast sandwich or burrito, or order a deli sandwich or panini for lunch. Choose from an extensive drink menu of coffees, teas, smoothies, and “Foo Foo Drinks” like the Campfire S’more made with chocolate and marshmallow.

Big Timber Bakery

Known for their generously iced cinnamon rolls and hearty breakfast plates, Big Timber Bakery also serves brick oven pizzas for lunch and dinner. Believe me, you’ll long remember their delightfully chewy yet crispy, made-from-scratch pizza crust. Sensitive tummy? They offer a great gluten-free crust, too.

The Tangent Coffee

Open mornings and afternoons all week long, this is a fun spot for a morning pastry and latté. The Tangent Coffee serves locally baked goods prepared by Big Al’s Bakery, including scones, danishes, and cookies. They even offer a selection of gluten-free goodies!

Stop by in the afternoon for a smoothie, a dish of frozen yogurt, or an ice cream cone. Settle into the cozy sofas with one of their board games to play with your crew while you enjoy your treats.

The Grand Hotel Restaurant

Make reservations at The Grand Hotel Restaurant for an elegant evening in Big Timber. As is the case in most places in Montana, there is no formal dress code in their dining room, so you’ll feel comfortable in your “fancy” jeans or a casual dress. For a more laidback, kid-friendly dinner option, you can order from the same menu in their restored 1890 Saloon next door.

To get a taste of popular Montana cuisine, order the local grass-fed buffalo ribeye or the trout platter. My family started our meal with the spicy elk sausage & pretzel bites served with huckleberry honey mustard sauce, too. Earlier in the day, look for simple fare like omelets or chicken fried steak for breakfast, and sandwiches or hand-breaded chicken strips for lunch.

Timber Bar

For laidback local food to feed the whole family, head to Timber Bar. Expect straightforward eats like burgers, steaks, salads, and chicken wings. The service is friendly, but be prepared to wait, especially on popular Sunday nights. There’s a pool table and lots of TVs for watching the game, making it a lively place to enjoy a drink or two.

Circle T Taproom

Big Timber’s Circle T Taproom is a friendly place to sample local craft beers by Crazy Peak Brewing Company. You can also dig into some tasty pub fare like pizzas, sandwiches, nachos, and pretzels with beer cheese. The outdoor patio lures patrons when the weather is warm, but the interior is cozy, too. Look for live music on weekends.

All ages are welcome. In fact, they even offer a children’s corner with toys and games. Read our tips for visiting breweries with kids and bring the whole family!

Where to Stay

There are a few chain hotels in and near Big Timber. However, for a memorable stay, take a look at these two contrasting options.

The Grand Hotel

One of the oldest still-operating hotels in Montana, The Grand Hotel was built in 1890. The historic charm, modern amenities (hello, air conditioning!), and location right in downtown Big Timber make this inn ideal for travelers wanting easy access to restaurants and shops.

There are only 14 rooms at this historic inn, decorated in turn-of-the-century style with Victorian architectural elements like intricate brickwork. In fact, the hotel has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Eight rooms include private bathrooms, while the remaining offer nice-looking shared facilities.

My family stayed in the 2-bedroom suite, which is essentially the same price as booking two separate hotel rooms and makes sense for a group of three or more travel mates. It comes equipped with a sitting area with an attached full bath plus an extra sink in the common room.

Read more reviews of The Grand Hotel via TripAdvisor or book your stay directly.

Sweet Grass Ranch

My family came to Sweet Grass Ranch on the outskirts of Big Timber just for a trail ride, but most visitors stay for a full week or more for an immersive ranch experience. Many guests travel from far-flung foreign countries to experience life on a working American cattle ranch. Experience this unique blend of adventure and relaxation from May through September. Kids of all ages and dogs are welcome.

Of course, the primary draw is horseback riding, with guests enjoying daily guided rides. Other activities include cattle work, fishing or swimming in Sweet Grass Creek, hiking scenic trails, and lawn games. Home-cooked meals are served family-style and made with locally raised meats, fresh produce, and home-baked breads and pastries. Weather allowing, guests also enjoy campfires with stories, songs, and marshmallow roasting. I hope to go back someday for the full experience!

Read more about this dude ranch experience via TripAdvisor or book your stay with Sweet Grass Ranch.

More Adventures For You

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Located near Denali, read about what makes Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge special.

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Which of these Big Timber attractions and activities would you like to do? Let us know in the comments below!

A Note from The Travel Mama: Visit Montana sponsored this blog post about Big Timber. Follow @visitmontana on Instagram for more inspiration. All opinions are mine, as always.

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