To say that seasons change dramatically in southwest Montana is an understatement. Not only do the days get shorter and temperatures drop, but the color palette makes a striking shift, almost before our eyes. Bright wildflowers and green foliage transform into a warm array of seeds, berries and leaves, providing an opportunity to rediscover our surroundings. Here are some examples of autumn’s transformation you can look for next time you get outside!
Katie Alvin has lived in Big Sky for more than 20 years and owns East Slope Outdoors with her husband Dave. With degrees in Environmental Studies and Soil Science, she has been involved with environmental and outdoor education for 25 years.
Red-osier dogwood has distinctive red stems and branches during the entire growing season, and turns brilliant, fiery red in fall. Look for it along the Gallatin River, especially heading north toward lower elevations. The white fruit, which is sometimes tinted blue, is edible but bitter.
Oregon grape has a distinctive prickly-edged leaf that turns bright red in fall. Look for it on forest floors along with the Columbia spotted frog pictured here. Its yellow flowers turn into frosty blue berries that are sour and juicy. When sweetened, the “grapes” can be made into jelly, jam, wine or juice.
Bright green lichens add refreshing color to a browning landscape. Some lichens are edible and can be used as an emergency food source. If you’d like to make a traditional native dish, take the partially digested lichen from the stomach of an elk and cook it with blood, fat and liver to make a savory pudding. Mmm!
A dead dragonfly creates a stark still life against fall foliage. Slow down and look carefully to find surprising scenes like this in the midst of autumn’s muted colors.
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by
Event Details
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by GAS for ride information.
Time
July 15 (Monday) 6:00 pm - September 23 (Monday) 6:00 pm
Hike Big Sky is a FREE guided hike for our community and visitors alike. A different trail will be featured each Monday at 9 a.m. Visit BSCO.org for trail description
Event Details
Hike Big Sky is a FREE guided hike for our community and visitors alike. A different trail will be featured each Monday at 9 a.m. Visit BSCO.org for trail description information. Please wear layers, bring water and snacks. Bear spray recommended.
Time
July 22 (Monday) 9:00 am - September 23 (Monday) 12:00 pm
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by
Event Details
Bike Big Sky is a FREE community mountain biking group with BSCO and Gallatin Alpine Sports. Meet at posted locations at 6 p.m. Monday evenings. Visit BSCO.org or swing by GAS for ride information.
Time
July 22 (Monday) 6:00 pm - September 30 (Monday) 6:00 pm
Join Santosha, BASE and Gourmet Gals to bring you a donation based all levels community yoga lunch break class every Wednesday throughout the summer. It will be
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Event Details
Join Santosha, BASE and Gourmet Gals to bring you a donation based all levels community yoga lunch break class every Wednesday throughout the summer. It will be taught by a variety of teachers from Santosha and BASE. This summer all proceeds will go to Big Sky Band-Aid, aside from the first one on the 26th that is happening during Pride week- all funds donated for that class will go to Big Sky OUT. A delicious lunch will also be served by Gourmet Gals following our practice each Wednesday (included in donation). You are welcome to donate with cash at the event or you can Venmo @Santoshabigsky and make a note for Community Yoga. Hope to see you in the Park!
Time
July 24 (Wednesday) 12:00 pm - September 23 (Monday) 1:00 pm