North Elevation - A Place To Truly See Everything
March 20, 2023
From This Point of View, No Trail is Too Steep
The trailhead into Billings gives you a sneak peak of Billings with a sweeping panorama of the city and a 360-degree view of five mountain ranges. North Elevation stretches across the length of the rimrocks and down toward the heart of the city, encompassing a vibrant higher education campus and vast medical corridor. This is your destination for inspiration, education, connection and well-being.
Where to Stay
The North Elevation not only showcases some historical landmarks and epic trails, but it’s also home to Montana State University Billings, a public university offering 115 programs across five colleges of study. And just few blocks away are two of the best medical centers in the region: Billings Clinic and Intermountain Health St. Vincent Healthcare. So, whether you’re exploring the outdoors, dropping off a college student, or staying healthy, you’ll find a cozy place to stay within walking distance.
Things To Do
With views like this, you’ll want get outside and traverse one of the many iconic trails atop the rims, with outstanding views, interesting sandstone rock formations, and the smell of fresh pine and juniper. An added benefit are the historical sites sprinkled along the way! If you take the trails from the east end, you can start your journey at Boothill Cemetery, which is all that remains of the people who called Coulson home, an old west settlement near the Yellowstone River that was the precursor to the city of Billings. Walk the gravesites of these trailblazers and learn a little bit about the raw west. Next, take a jaunt up the hill to Swords Park Black Otter Trail, a 60-acre park that includes walking trails, gorgeous views and the historical Yellowstone Kelly Interpretive Site, the burial place of Luther Sage Yellowstone Kelly, American soldier, hunter, scout and sojourner in the early 20th century whose adventurous spirit calls us to live boldly.
If Western American history is your jam, then skirt down the road to the Billings Logan International Airport, where you’ll find hidden treasures at the Yellowstone County Museum, located just off the circular airport drive. The museum incorporates the McCormick Cabin built in 1893, and offers several exhibits that showcase the history of the Yellowstone River Basin, including the story of Joe Medicine Crow and the Coulson City saloon. About three miles down the road to the west, you’ll find Zimmerman Park, another rim-top park that offers hiking, mountain biking, climbing routes, and more city views. Embrace the pure west as it was meant to be encountered, with sandstone cliffs, sagebrush, and winding trails through the pines. A great place for both kids and dogs, with a large parking area and restrooms. And if you’re feeling especially daring, try starting at Zimmerman Park and traversing all the way to Swords Park utilizing Skyline Trail, a new multi-use pathway along the length of the rims connecting both parks. Get out there, go against the grain, and don’t forget your water bottle!
On your way toward downtown, check out Montana State University Billings athletics, and experience the home-town excitement of a collegiate sporting event at Alterowitz Gymnasium. From basketball to volleyball and everything in between, you’ll be thrilled as a spectator. The venue is also home to some must-see regional events, like the MSUB Powwow, with tribal members coming together from all over Montana to sing, dance and celebrate their culture and traditions.
If you love America’s favorite pastime, you won’t want to miss attending a baseball game at Dehler Park. With a 75-year legacy under their belt, the Billings Mustangs play all summer as part of the Pioneer Baseball League. There isn’t a bad seat in this beautifully set up stadium and it has all your favorites, from hot dogs and cold beer to peanuts and cracker jacks, it’s always a win. There’s nothing like watching the Montana summer sun set while listening the crack of a bat.
Where to Eat
After you’ve explored the endless trails and extensive views of the rims, it’s most likely time to find a good brew. For a rich, creamy latte or flaky scone, check out City Brew on 27th for
your morning jolt. Or stop by Black Dog Coffee on 10th for some Stumptown coffee and a flaky chocolate croissant, breakfast burrito, or their infamous Doh-Dohs (mini donuts). If you’re looking for the micro version, then end your day at 406 Kitchen & Taproom. With a modern industrial style and a killer rooftop bar, you won’t need to say goodbye to the endless views. Sip a locally brewed pint while you wait for some Carne Asada Fries or the Canyon Creek Cheese Curds.
