Shake It Out
Recreation & theater mix with Shakespeare in the Parks.
If recreation be the food of love, play on! Our region’s majestic mountains make quite the backdrop for Shakespeare in the Parks. Between vibrant rivers and wild landscapes, each town on the summer-long circuit provides its own unique outdoor experiences. Whether you’re an avid angler, a thrill-seeking boater, or a committed hiker, there’s something for everyone before the sun goes down and the Bard comes out. Here’s a guide to a few pre-show excursions before crackin’ a cold one on thy desired lawn.
Red Lodge, Lions Park (July 10)
Positioned at the base of the Beartooths, Red Lodge offers a variety of outdoor options. Run a shuttle lap to mountain bike from the top of the Plateau down into town, or hit a handful of trails just beyond the city limits. For something more chill, fish Rock Creek. You can also enjoy any number of hikes or climbs before kicking back at Lions Park for the show.
Fishtail, Fishtail Family Park (July 11)
Also nestled at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains, Fishtail is the gateway into the Rosebud drainages. The fishing is phenomenal, and there are ample camping opportunities up both the east and west forks of the river. The Tippet Rise Art Center is nearby, too, for a unique hiking or biking experience before the evening’s performance.
Birney, Poker Jim Butte (July 18)
History buffs and nature nerds: check out the historic Poker Jim fire lookout and take in 360-degree views of the Custer-Gallatin in this remote part of the state. Settle in for a performance against the historic backdrop, and pitch a tent nearby for easy access after the show. The site is ordinarily for day-use only, but camping is typically allowed this one night of the year.
Driggs, ID, Teton County Courthouse (July 26)
For most folks, Driggs is a stopover en route to Jackson, but the little town has a lot going on. Buy a lift ticket at Grand Targhee and spend the day downhill biking at the resort, or take a hike up any number of canyons draining the west side of the Tetons. Camping is plentiful, and finding a spot to pitch a tent is much easier than on the Jackson side. Whatever you end up doing, stop for milkshakes in town before heading to the Teton County Courthouse for a show on the front lawn.
Philipsburg, Winninghoff Park (August 4)
Hike to Granite Ghost Town State Park to explore the remnants of a 19th-century silver mine before traveling further back in time to the renaissance. More into wading out the curtain call? Fish nearby Rock Creek or on take a few casts in Georgetown Lake. If you’re looking to unwind prior to the play, grab a brew at Philipsburg Brewing Company before stretching out on your picnic blanket at Winninghoff Park.
Choteau, Weatherbeater Arena Grounds (August 30)
Choteau is one of those unassuming towns that has a lot to offer. To start, hike up Egg Mountain where petrified dino eggs are said to have been found. More serious hikers can explore endless options in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, while bird-watchers can post up at Freezeout Lake for the day. After a day in the sun, convene at the Weatherbeater Arena Grounds for the show.
Townsend, Heritage Park (August 31)
Come late August, the obvious choice in Townsend is to launch a watercraft on the Missouri River and float into town. Alternatively, mountain bike Copper City or ride a dirt-bike loop into the Elkhorns. For something more relaxing, hang out on the shores of Canyon Ferry with a fishing rod and a cooler of beer. No matter what you do, the highlight is sure to be the performance later in the evening.
