Riverfront Park

Imagine a peaceful green oasis sprawling across 40 acres along the banks of the mighty Yellowstone River. This is exactly how the picturesque Riverfront Park appears to residents and visitors of Billings. It is a place where the urban bustle of the USA gives way to the serenity of nature, offering the perfect setting for relaxation and contemplation.

One of the park's true gems is Lake Josephine, surrounded by lush vegetation and cozy rest areas. From the shore, stunning panoramic views open up to the Rimrocks—majestic sandstone cliffs that create a unique landscape and highlight the rugged beauty of Montana.

The park serves as a vital link in the city's trail system, acting as a "gateway" to exploring the wilderness. With its abundance of trees and proximity to water, it attracts birdwatching and wildlife enthusiasts, creating a sense of total harmony with the surrounding world.

To inquire about events or venue rentals, you can contact the park administration directly. Below are the main contact details.

Everyone will find something to enjoy in this park, from active workouts to lazy relaxation in the shade of trees. Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the seven miles of well-maintained trails, perfect for running, cycling, or leisurely walks with river views. If you're looking to cool off, you can head down to the water for fishing or even a swim in the Yellowstone.

For family and social gatherings, there are three spacious picnic shelters equipped with barbecue grills. Sports enthusiasts can set up a volleyball match, play horseshoes, or test their aim at disc golf. Children will surely love the modern playgrounds located in safe areas of the park.

During the summer months, Riverfront Park comes alive with outdoor festivals and concerts. You'll also find informational boards detailing the historical route of the Lewis and Clark expedition, turning a simple walk into a small educational journey. Don't forget your camera—the park's viewpoints guarantee excellent shots of the Rimrocks.

Located south of downtown Billings, the park is accessible via State Secondary Hwy 416. If you are traveling by car, the drive from the city center takes about 10–15 minutes, and no more than 20 minutes from Billings Logan International Airport (BIL) via I-90. Convenient parking is provided on-site for visitors.

For those who prefer public transport, the city's MET Transit buses have stops within walking distance of the entrance. You can also use taxis or popular rideshare services like Uber and Lyft for a quick transfer directly to the trailhead.

Active travelers can reach the site by bicycle. Riverfront Park is integrated into the Billings city-wide bike path network, making the ride safe and pleasant. A walk from the center takes about 20–30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy views of the foothills along the way.

This place possesses a special historical aura, as the route of the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition passed right through here in the early 19th century. Strolling along the banks of the Yellowstone River, you are literally following in the footsteps of the explorers who charted the wild lands of the American West over two hundred years ago.

The city of Billings itself, where the park is located, grew around a hub of the Northern Pacific Railway in 1882. Due to its rapid development, it earned the nickname "The Magic City." Riverfront Park became an important part of the community's efforts to preserve its natural heritage amidst a growing metropolis.

The region's geological past is equally impressive. The majestic Rimrocks sandstone cliffs, which can be seen from the park, were formed over millions of years. Today, the park serves not only as a recreation spot but also as a living reminder of ancient natural processes and the resilience of Montana's early settlers.

For most visitors, 1–2 hours is enough to leisurely walk the main trails and enjoy the river views. This allows plenty of time for a short stroll and some beautiful photos against the backdrop of the cliffs.

If you plan to have a picnic by Lake Josephine, play disc golf, or spend time at the beach, it's better to budget 2 to 4 hours. During the summer, when concerts or festivals are held in the park, you could easily spend half a day here.

Riverfront Park welcomes visitors daily, providing access to natural beauty from early morning until late evening. This area is designated for day use, so overnight stays are not permitted.

The park's schedule remains consistent throughout the week, including weekends and holidays: from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This schedule allows you to catch the sunrise during a morning run or enjoy the sunset by the river.

Exploring the area around Riverfront Park will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Montana and discover the historical and cultural treasures of the region. Its proximity to the city center makes itinerary planning easy and convenient.

Many interesting locations are just a few minutes' drive away, offering everything from historic homes to memorial markers. Below is a list of nearby sites worth visiting.